TIQUE Talks Robin Bradley and Jennifer Jacob

Tern is on a mission to modernize travel advisor technology! Tern founders, David Shull and Katie Williams, share how this innovative platform is streamlining advisor workflows, prioritizing user feedback, and redefining the advisor-client relationship. By actively listening to user feedback, responding to queries, and receiving input on new features, Tern has created a loyal fan base that feels heard, valued, and connected. The genuine interactions and transparency in communication have elevated the user experience, driving enthusiasm and excitement among advisors. Tune in to learn about the platform’s development process, prioritization of features, and the future of technology in supporting travel advisors. As the travel industry continues to evolve, the human touch, coupled with cutting-edge technology, will be the driving force behind success in industry!

 

About with David Shull and Katie Williams:

In 2014, Tern’s founding team worked together as a part of the earliest team at Handshake. After eight years they had helped Handshake grow from a living room in Northern Michigan to the second largest professional network in the US and a $3.5B valuation. Tern's CEO, David was on a trip to Greece in 2021 when he missed a ferry schedule change. Instead of enjoying their first Greek Isle, David & his wife spent six hours in a (very hot) parking lot waiting for the next ferry. In that parking lot, David thought of his in-laws & that they used an advisor for all their trips. He thought, maybe if he had partnered with Wendy he wouldn't be in that parking lot. David called Brian and Katie and shared the earliest version of an idea for Tern. 

 

What they didn't know was if anyone needed it. They packed their bags and headed to ASTA where they talked to as many advisors, agencies, and suppliers as they could. The answer was clear. The travel industry was desperate for better technology. David, Katie, and Brian started working on Tern in 2022 and went full time in 2023. Since then the team has grown and remains laser focused on building incredible technology for travel advisors.

 

tern.travel

 

 

Today we will cover:


 (02:15) The development of Tern
 (07:10) Getting advisor feedback on pain points in the industry
 (17:00) Balancing Innovation and Practicality in Technology Development
 (22:45) What is Tern? Who is it for?
 (26:40) Creating a loyal customer base; importance of user feedback
 (33:45) Progress over perfection mindset
 (37:00) Technology trends in the travel industry
 (45:40) Creating a streamlined and seamless user interface
 (48:10) Tern’s ideal user 
 (50:10) The long term vision for Tern

 

 

CLIENT COMMUNICATION TEMPLATES

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THE LEGAL PAIGE: https://thelegalpaige.com/collections/industry-travel-advisor/?aff=143

Travel industry agreement templates

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Thinking of switching to a different host agency? Don’t miss this episode! Before making the switch, there are so many factors to consider, and it can oftentimes feel like you’re piecing together a puzzle where support, mentorship, community, and financials need to fit just right! Stephanie Lee, founder of Host Agency Reviews, joins this episode to discuss the intricacies of finding the right host agency for your business growth. From commission structures to training programs and culture dynamics, this conversation gives insights for both new and seasoned travel advisors. Learn how to navigate the host agency landscape and find the perfect fit for your business! 

 

About Stephanie Lee:

Stephanie founded Host Agency Reviews in 2012. As a former host agency director for a $50M agency, she has spoken with thousands of new and experienced travel agents—many of whom found it difficult to find in-depth, reputable information about the travel industry. She grew up in the heart of the travel industry - her family owned a home based travel agency that grew into a storefront, and went through the same growing pains you may currently be experiencing!

 

hostagencyreviews.com

 

 

Today we will cover:


(03:25) Stephanie’s background; Host Agency Reviews 
(10:25) The different host agency models to choose from
(13:50) Switching host agencies
(17:20) Different aspects of a host agency
(22:45) The number one reason advisors leave a host agency
(27:00) Challenges that host agencies face
(36:30) The impact of leadership on host agency culture
(39:10) Questions to ask when inquiring about a specific host agency
(41:50) Number of host agencies to consider before making a decision
(44:30) Side hustle to career travel advisor

 

 

SEMI CUSTOM BRAND KITS

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TONIC 

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Get 15% off your purchase with code: TiqueSentMe

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Travefy, a leading platform in the travel industry, has transformed the way travel advisors operate and deliver exceptional service to their clients. Founded by David Chait, Travefy initially started as a consumer group travel planner but pivoted to a comprehensive B2B solution for travel advisors. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, Travefy has become a go-to platform for advisors looking to streamline their workflow and provide a top-notch client experience. In this episode, Jennifer and David discuss the innovations that have propelled Travefy to success and discuss its long-term vision for the future, such as the upcoming Marketplace and client portal features.

 

About David Chait:

David is founder and CEO of Travefy, an award-winning itinerary, proposal, marketing and client management platform for travel advisors that helps them save time, impress clients, and sell more. He is an outspoken industry advocate, serves on the Board of Directors of The Travel Institute, and was named “Entrepreneur of the Year” in 2017 by the American Society of Travel Advisors. Before founding Travefy, David served in the Obama Administration working on small business economic policy and as a strategy consultant at McKinsey & Company.

linkedin.com/in/dchait

 

 

Today we will cover:


 (01:40) How Travefy played a role in Jennifer starting her company
 (04:30) David’s background and the creation of Travefy
 (09:35) Pivoting from a consumer group travel planner to a comprehensive B2B solution for travel advisors
 (14:50) Travel industry trends and the rise of travel advisors
 (19:30) Empowering independent advisors through efficient technology
 (26:30) The biggest successes in the Travefy platform
 (32:10) The functionalities of Travefy
 (37:10) The shared Marketplace; collaborative content sharing 
 (41:30) Long-term visions for Travefy; upcoming client portals

 

 

CLIENT COMMUNICATION TEMPLATES

tiquehq.com/client-communication-templates

 

THE LEGAL PAIGE: https://thelegalpaige.com/collections/industry-travel-advisor/?aff=143

Travel industry agreement templates

_____

 

 

JOIN OUR NICHE COMMUNITY: tiquehq.com/niche

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/tiquehq CHECK OUT OUR SERVICES & PROGRAMS: tiquehq.com

Modern etiquette isn’t about outdated rules or stuffy traditions. It is about creating a framework for better communication, collaboration, and respect in the workplace. Etiquette coach, Courtney Opalko, shares tips on how to introduce yourself confidently, navigate networking events, and handle seated events with grace. She also discusses the significance of promptness, clear communication in emails, and the boundaries between business and friendship. Are you eager to make a great first impression? Tune in for the ins and outs of business etiquette, and learn how kindness, respect, and confidence can create a lasting impression and open doors to new opportunities!

 

About Courtney Opalko:

Courtney is a certified etiquette trainer with a mission to spread kindness and civility through important life skills. Courtney's unique programs are fun, interactive and inclusive in nature, rooted in values of confidence, awareness, empathy and respect. As an etiquette expert, she offers modern advice designed to elevate the everyday.

 

Courtney is a proud member of the International Etiquette Trainer Society as well as the Protocol & Diplomacy International Protocol Officers Association.

 

courtneyopalkoetiquette.com

 

 

Today we will cover:


 (01:40) Courtney’s background; Google sales to modern etiquette expertise 
 (04:05) Modern etiquette for confidence and relationship building
 (07:20) How etiquette impacts your reputation
 (10:00) How to confidently introduce yourself
 (13:30) Tips for remembering names; graceful recovery from forgetting names
 (19:00) Networking etiquette during events; where to sit and what to order
 (30:40) Honoring rsvp commitments; being punctual
 (38:20) Self-awareness and improving social etiquette
 (40:15) Email etiquette for professional communication
 (43:45) Setting boundaries in business relationships

 

 

CLIENT COMMUNICATION TEMPLATES

tiquehq.com/client-communication-templates

 

THE LEGAL PAIGE

https://thelegalpaige.com/collections/industry-travel-advisor/?aff=143

Travel industry agreement templates

_____

 

 

JOIN OUR NICHE COMMUNITY: tiquehq.com/niche

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Welcome to the first episode of the Summer Tech Series! Over the course of the summer months, Robin and Jennifer will be interviewing tech founders to share about their platform, their favorite features, as well as the future of their systems. They will also be interviewing founders of tech companies that are revolutionizing how founders research and book their travel. 

 

This episode kicks off the series by breaking down which factors to consider when selecting a CRM for your travel business. Jennifer explains the need for customization and adaptability to niche, as well as the integration capabilities of the CRM with other systems. Robin highlights the significance of client communication and documentation, emphasizing the importance of organization and thorough tracking. The ladies also discuss the challenges and limitations of reporting and metrics in CRMs, as well as the importance of accessibility, particularly through mobile capabilities. If you’re in the market for a new CRM, tune in for advice on what to look for when choosing the right one for your business!

 

 

Today we will cover:


 (03:40) Customizing a platform to make it work for you
 (07:30) Choosing a User-Friendly CRM
 (10:40) The ability to integrate with other systems; email, calendar, payment processor
 (14:45) Current development of travel CRM platforms
 (21:00) Tern’s responsiveness and Customer Service Excellence
 (25:00) Importance of Organized Client Documentation
 (27:15) Evaluating When to Switch Software Platforms
 (30:40) Valuing Client Investments
 (34:20) Critical Importance of CRM Security and Data Backup
 (37:05) Enhancing Business Insight Through Reporting and Metrics
 (39:15) The Complexities of a CRM App for mobile accessibility

 

 

CLIENT COMMUNICATION TEMPLATES

tiquehq.com/client-communication-templates

 

SEMI CUSTOM BRAND KITS

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Listen to Episode 70: 

Which Numbers REALLY Matter In Your Business?

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Struggling to find enough hours in the day? Learn how to tackle time management and find out which items are creating inefficiencies within your day! Robin and Jennifer share their thoughts on effective time management, including reviewing your schedule ahead of time and creating a game plan for each day. They discuss the benefits of using tools like Calendly and TravelJoy for automation and delegation, as well as the value of leaning on concierges and DMCs. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and like there's never enough time to accomplish your to-do list. However, the key to optimizing your time is not about having more hours, but rather about how you manage the hours you do have. Don't miss out on these tips for increasing productivity and finding the right balance in your business!

 

 

Today we will cover:


 (01:00) Planning ahead for productive days
 (03:05) Prioritizing tasks: rocks, pebbles, and sand
 (05:15) Setting boundaries in client communication
 (09:15) Eliminating distractions and task batching
 (16:50) Maximizing productivity with Focus; managing digital distractions
 (21:00) Balancing business tasks with creative preferences
 (25:45) Being more efficient with your time
 (29:45) Leveraging concierge knowledge for enhanced travel experiences
 (32:50) Business automations; Calendly and Traveljoy
 (37:55) Efficiency and productivity in the age of social media

 

 

 

CLIENT COMMUNICATION TEMPLATES

tiquehq.com/client-communication-templates

 

GUSTO - Get $100 off when you join! 

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Listen to Episode 18: 

Controlling The Chaos Of Managing Concierge-Level Travel Details with Kaytee Fisher

 

Listen to Episode 47: 

How To Batch Your Tasks & Manage Your Time As A Travel Advisor

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JOIN OUR NICHE COMMUNITY: tiquehq.com/niche

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