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Basics On Travel Agent Jobs

By Tammie Caldwell


Traveling is something that many enjoy. Some like to plan out these adventures on their own, while others prefer having it done for them through travel agency services. People working at these businesses, whether they are public or private, offer services related to travel and tourism. Their work is done on behalf of hotels, cruise lines, railways, airlines, package tours and other suppliers. Travel agent jobs are available around the globe to people interested in this profession.

A lot of agencies service normal tourists. Some might also work closely with business travelers. There are also those that work exclusively with these business people. Every agency is different. Some are even in the business of being general sales agents for international travel companies. This set up allows them to have offices in regions around the globe.

Agencies that we think of today first appeared on the scene during the second part of the 19th century. Thomas Cook was amongst first to develop a package tour, establishing a collection of agencies during this time that were tied to Midland Railway. Of course this industry began to grow as traveling became easier and more affordable. A big surge came when commercial aviation became more commonplace, around the 1920s.

These businesses and their staff are agents. That is, their job is based around selling of services and products for suppliers. They do not keep stock. Rather, as packages and tickets are requested and purchased by clients they are made available to the agency at a discounted cost. Profit, or the commission made, is calculated by subtracting the price paid by customers from the discount price the agency was given.

People who have interest in this position should be good at selling. After all, their pay depends upon their ability to convince clients to make a purchase. The higher the sale, the more potential profit one is expected to make. Details of commission set up may differ by company. Airlines no longer offer commission to agencies, so there may be set ups in place regarding premium or flat fee that is issued for each sale.

In most regions the world, people who sell these tickets and packages must be licensed as travel agents. These professionals may work for these companies or be freelance agents. The number of jobs in this field are decreasing because people have access to the Internet and self-service websites that make trip planning simpler. Still, a lot more people are traveling.

It may take some time for people to be successful in this career. Luckily there are numerous classes and programs that offer training and education about this position. Those interested in working for a company are encouraged to find out the specifics of the services offered, as well as the salary and pay rate. Freelance agents should strive to make a name for themselves and work hard to establish a reliable clientele.

Agencies are a popular option for many reasons. They can provide discounted rates. Furthermore, they are available to make sure that people have lodging, travel and other important accommodations in place. This can relieve a lot of pressure and stress associated with trip planning.




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