Jamie Biesiada
Over the summer, I attended Avoya Travel's Million Dollar Showcase. The event was tailored toward high producers on track to make at least $1 million in gross sales this year.
One of the multimillion-dollar sellers I spoke with was Dana Dziegiel, owner of Gypsea Travels in Utica, N.Y. In July, her year-to-date sales totaled $2.6 million. Something she told me has stuck with me ever since: "I don't think I'll ever be complacent. I want to grow. The only competition that I have is me."
"The only competition that I have is me." This struck a chord with me. Dziegiel's mindset is a powerful one and a reminder that even among the most successful, there's room for growth.
What better time to think about growth than as the calendar turns to a new year? So, I present: Three New Year's resolutions for travel advisors.
Embrace AI. When I sat down at the Thanksgiving dinner table last month, my cousin turned to me and asked, "Are you using AI for work?" It sparked a conversation on the ways we're each using AI to augment our professional and personal lives.
Conversations about AI are everywhere, and seemingly never-ending, but with good reason. It's the kind of technology that can save time and close gaps in workflows, and travel advisors shouldn't ignore it. If you're wary of using technology built on AI, turn to solutions endorsed by your host agency or consortium or that have a proven track record in the agency community, like TobyAI or Approach Guides.
Keep learning. In 2025, learn the ins and outs of at least one new-to-you destination and supplier.
It can be difficult to work training time into a busy schedule, especially for established advisors who have defined areas of specialty. But chances are you can match a new supplier or destination with multiple existing clients.
It can also be a great conversation starter with clients who haven't booked in a while. "I just learned about X property in X destination, and I think it'd be a great fit for your family ...."
Bonus if you complete training using the time you saved by incorporating AI into your business.
Plan for leaner times. The agency community is still largely riding a high thanks to the pandemic-induced travel boom. For many, this year again will be a record one in terms of sales.
But what goes up must come down.
That's not to suggest we're facing a sudden drop-off in travel. Actually, many indicators point to another robust year in 2025. But the steep growth many agencies experienced in 2022-2023 seems to have moderated, and history suggests any number of factors could turn out to be a monkey wrench in the future.
The time to start preparing for leaner times is when business is good. Think about bolstering cash reserves or setting realistic goals to do so in the year ahead. Have a plan in place for operating on a lower budget. If you're newer to the industry -- perhaps part of the wave of advisors who started after the onset of the pandemic -- talk to your more seasoned peers about their plans.
It's an investment in the longevity of your business, and that's worth a Champagne toast.
Happy New Year!