Strategic Travel Entrepreneur: Business Tips for Travel Agents/Advisors, Travel Agency Owners, and Travel Business Owners

Rita M. Perez
  • ٤٫٩ (٢٥)
  • ريادة الأعمال
  • يتم التحديث كل أسبوعين

Each week I share, along with featured guests, tangible and practical business strategies for travel entrepreneurs.We discuss foundations, marketing, sales, client experience, systems, supplier relations, and everything in between to empower you to run an effective and profitable travel business, and not just another travel hobby.For travel agents, travel advisors, travel suppliers, tour operators, tourism professionals, travel coaches, travel creators, travel business owners, travel agency owners, host agency owners, and travel industry support partners.

  1. قبل يوم واحد

    Ep 220 Build a Travel Business That Runs Itself Through Strategic Operations and Systems with Courtnie Nichols (Prep for Wave Week 2024 Replay)

    Send Rita a text with your thoughts! Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776 You're running a business, not a hobby, and it's time your operations reflect that mindset.  I'm bringing back my conversation with Courtnie Nichols, the SOP queen who's built a travel empire using systems that actually work. We're talking everything from AI-enhanced standard operating procedures to tech stacks that talk to each other through Zapier integrations.  She breaks down exactly how she uses tools like Asana, Honeybook, and VacationCRM to create repeatable processes that let her team run the business while she focuses on growth.  Whether you're drowning in manual tasks or ready to scale beyond being a solopreneur, Courtnie spills all her operational secrets including how to audit your workflow, when to hire team members, and why quarterly SOP reviews are non-negotiable for sustainable growth.  Check out The Biz Huddle: https://www.thebizhuddle.com/ Questions this episode answers: How do you create standard operating procedures (SOPs) for your travel business?What tech tools should travel advisors use to automate their business operations?Should you hire independent contractors or W-2 employees for your travel business?What's the difference between Honeybook and travel-specific CRMs like Vacation CRM?How do you use Zapier to connect different business tools and software?What project management tools work best for travel agency operations?What should you document first when creating business systems?How do you train team members using SOPs and video tutorials?Why don't travel industry tools integrate well with other business software?How do you conduct post-trip reviews to improve your processes?What's the best way to organize and store your business documentation?How can travel advisors scale their business without working more hoursWhat operational mistakes do new travel entrepreneurs make?How do you create workflows that work for both individual and group travel bookings?When is it time to invest in paid versions of business management tools?How do you build systems that allow your business to run without you? Enjoy (and take action)! --------------------------------------------------------------- Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/ Say HI on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL: rita@steeryourmarketing.com

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  2. ١٢ سبتمبر

    Ep 219 How to Reverse Engineer Your Travel Business Sales Goals for Maximum Profit (Prep for Wave Week 2024 Replay)

    Send Rita a text with your thoughts! Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776 You know that feeling when you're doing all the marketing stuff but your business still feels messy and unfocused?  That's because you're working forward instead of backwards, friend.  I'm breaking down exactly how to reverse engineer your travel business by starting with your actual income goals and working backwards to figure out what you need to sell and how many sales you need to hit those targets.  We're talking real numbers here, from figuring out if you need to sell 200+ luxury FIT trips or just 3 destination wedding groups per year to hit your goals.  I'll show you why a $1,000 income goal actually means you need $1,620 in yearly income and $16,200 in sales, plus how to structure your business whether you're a Part Time Polly working 20 hours max or a Hustle Holly going for that six-figure year.  Join us for this year's Plan Your Year Workshop: https://prepforwaveweek.com/planyouryear Questions this episode answers: How do you calculate your yearly income goal as a travel agent?What is the difference between sales, revenue, commission, and profit in travel business?How much do you need to sell to make six figures as a travel advisor?What are the essential business expenses every travel agent should budget for?How do you determine your monthly sales targets as a travel agent?What commission percentage should travel advisors expect from suppliers?How do you factor in taxes and fees when setting travel business income goals?How many cruises do you need to sell per year to make $60,000?What are the best high commission travel products for maximizing revenue?What supplier partnerships should travel agents prioritize for higher commissions?How do you structure travel agent fees to cover business expenses and time off?What is the sales volume difference between mass market and luxury travel specialization?How do you account for vacation time and sick days in travel business income planning? Enjoy (and take action)! --------------------------------------------------------------- Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/ Say HI on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL: rita@steeryourmarketing.com

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  3. ٥ سبتمبر

    Ep 218 Travel Advisor Success Stories at Different Business Stages and Revenue Levels with Judi Lombardi, Leah Iudice, and Stephen Scott (Prep for Wave Week 2024 Replay)

    Send Rita a text with your thoughts! Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776 Get ready for some real talk about building a travel business that actually makes money!  I brought together three incredible travel advisors at completely different stages. From a newbie who hit $500K in her first year to a seasoned pro running multiple businesses, they're spilling just a few of their secrets.  You'll hear exactly how they're getting clients through word-of-mouth marketing, what tech they're actually using, and the biggest misconceptions about owning a travel agency.  Plus, they get brutally honest about their biggest pain points, from figuring out when to hire help to managing clients who span the globe.  Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale past seven figures, these insights will give you that boost your business needs. Judi Lombardi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judi-lombardi-25580825/ Leah Iudice: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-iudice-90806316/ Stephen Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sscott2378/ Questions this episode answers: What are the best CRM systems for travel agencies and travel advisors?How do travel advisors get clients without spending money on advertisingWhat tech stack do successful travel advisors actually use daily?How to scale a travel business from $500K to over $1 million in sales?What are the biggest challenges facing new travel agency owners?How do travel advisors track commissions and manage finances?What is the best way to get referrals for a travel business?How much do travel advisors charge in fees for their services?What are the biggest mistakes new travel advisors make when starting?How to choose the right suppliers and partners for a travel agency?What does it take to become a successful luxury travel advisor?How to transition from employee to independent travel advisor successfullyWhat workflow systems do profitable travel agencies use?What are the pros and cons of specializing in specific travel niches? Enjoy (and take action)! --------------------------------------------------------------- Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/ Say HI on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL: rita@steeryourmarketing.com

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  4. ٢٩ أغسطس

    Ep 217 How Travel Advisors Can Find and Partner with Tour Operators with Mitch Bach

    Send Rita a text with your thoughts! Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776 Looking for tour operators who aren't just another name on the major booking platforms?  I'm breaking down the messy but wonderful world of finding those hidden gem operators who create truly unique experiences for your clients.  We explore the blurry lines between travel advisors and tour operators, decode confusing industry terms like DMCs and receptive operators, and tackle the real challenges around payments, communication, and building trust.  My guest Mitch Bach from Tourpreneur shares insider secrets on how to move beyond the big platforms and connect directly with local operators who can deliver those wow-factor trips your clients are actually asking for.  Plus, we cover the homework you need to do before reaching out and the best practices that turn one-time bookings into lasting partnerships.  Mitch's list of Tour Operator Terminology: https://tourpreneur.com/tour-operator-terminology/ Register for Tour Week: https://tourweek.travel/ Tourpreneur FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tourpreneur/ Questions this episode answers: What is the difference between a travel advisor and a tour operator?What are the different types of tour operators travel advisors should know about?What is a DMC and how does it differ from other tour operators?What is the difference between inbound and outbound tour operators?Why do tour operators prefer working directly with travel advisors instead of booking platforms?What insurance do travel advisors need when operating group trips?How can travel advisors build trust with tour operators?How can travel advisors find niche and specialty tour operators?What credentials should travel advisors look for when vetting tour operators?Where can travel advisors network with tour operators in person?What technology tools help travel advisors work with tour operators?What questions should travel advisors ask potential tour operator partners? Enjoy (and take action)! --------------------------------------------------------------- Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/ Say HI on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL: rita@steeryourmarketing.com

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  5. ٢٢ أغسطس

    Ep 216 How I Pitch Topics for Speaking Opportunities as a Travel Business Owner

    Send Rita a text with your thoughts! Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776 Ready to turn your travel expertise into speaking opportunities that actually grow your business?  I'm breaking down my exact process for crafting speaking topics that get you booked, from nailing the specificity that makes event organizers stop scrolling to strategically planning around the offers you want to pitch at the end.  You'll get my insider tips on what you actually need to submit when applying for speaking gigs, plus the etiquette and professionalism tricks that separate the pros from the not-yet-ready's.  Whether you're eyeing podcast guesting, formal presentations, or webinar hosting, I'm sharing the behind-the-scenes tactics that have helped me land speaking opportunities with other renowned industry leaders.  Apply to be a speaker at Host Week 2026:  https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/speakers Questions this episode answers: What makes a speaking topic specific enough to stand out from competitorsHow can I tailor my speaking topics to different audiences?What's the difference between podcast guesting and formal presentation requirements?How do I plan my speaking topics around what I want to sell?How should I dress and set up my space for virtual speaking engagements?How do I use ChatGPT to improve my speaking topic titles?What questions should I prepare for podcast interviews?How do I drop content mentions during my presentation without being pushy?How many speaking topic proposals should I submit to one event?How do I turn speaking opportunities into actual travel clients?What lighting and background setup makes me look professional on camera? Enjoy (and take action)! --------------------------------------------------------------- Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/ Say HI on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL: rita@steeryourmarketing.com

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  6. ١٥ أغسطس

    Ep 215 How to Build a Multi-Channel Marketing Ecosystem for Your Travel Business

    Send Rita a text with your thoughts! Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776 You can't just pick one marketing strategy and call it a day, especially if you want to build a real presence online that actually converts.  I'm breaking down my marketing matrix system that covers all four essential pillars: meeting new people, connecting with them, converting them into clients, and keeping those relationships alive long after the trip is booked.  We're talking about creating that beautiful multi-channel approach that works with your personality and capacity, because things don't have to be perfect or polished anymore, they just need to be authentic and connecting.  I'm also sharing my favorite inner work exercises that'll help you figure out your unique why and create content that positions you as the go-to travel advisor in your niche.  This is your roadmap to building a marketing ecosystem that brings in clients consistently without burning you out. Questions this episode answers: How do you meet new clients as a travel advisor?How does SEO and AI optimization work for travel agencies?What social media strategies work best for travel advisors? How do you convert leads into paying travel clients?What should you include in a travel advisor discovery call?How do you reconnect with past travel clients to get repeat business?What is the onion layer exercise for travel entrepreneurs? How do you create a content marketing system for your travel agency?What buying stages do travel clients go through?Why should travel advisors send birthday cards and direct mail to clients? Enjoy (and take action)! --------------------------------------------------------------- Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/ Say HI on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL: rita@steeryourmarketing.com

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  7. ٨ أغسطس

    Ep 214 How the Music Industry Can Teach Travel Agents to Build Their Business

    Send Rita a text with your thoughts! Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776 Get ready to rock your travel business because I'm spilling what Netflix's "Building the Band" highlighted for me about building a successful travel agency!  Just like those musicians had to put themselves out there to get noticed, you've got to stop hiding and start showing up in the right spaces where your ideal clients are hanging out.  I'm breaking down how to create raving fans who can't stop talking about you, why niching down is like finding your signature sound, and the super impactful power of strategic partnerships with local businesses.  Plus, I'm sharing some creative ideas for joint venture trips that'll have you thinking way outside the box.  Trust me, these entertainment industry gems are about to transform how you think about marketing and growing your travel business! Questions this episode answers: How can travel agents put themselves out there to attract more clients?Why should travel advisors focus on making clients feel something special?How can travel agents work with local businesses to grow their client baseWhat's the difference between referrals and raving fan referrals in travel?How do you find the right venues and spaces to market your travel business?How can travel agents build joint venture partnerships with breweries and entertainment venues?What makes some travel agents stand out more than others? How do you create memorable client experiences in travel planning? Enjoy (and take action)! --------------------------------------------------------------- Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/ Say HI on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL: rita@steeryourmarketing.com

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  8. ١ أغسطس

    Ep 213 How to Sell More Ocean Cruises with Korrine Johnson (4/4)

    Send Rita a text with your thoughts! Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776 Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week! https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week Welcome to the fourth and final episode of this year's Summer Selling Series! I'm sitting down with cruise expert Korrine Johnson of Travel Biz Boss to break down exactly how travel advisors can build a profitable cruise-focused business without burning out.  We're talking real numbers - like how selling just one cruise per week can net you $30K+ annually, and why specializing in cruises is actually the secret to scaling faster than trying to be a generalist.  Korrine shares her journey from fighting the "I don't just book cruises" mentality to embracing cruises as the easiest, most profitable segment of her business, plus her best sales tips for upselling clients from balconies to suites.  You'll discover why that three-night Bahamas cruise booking could be the start of an 18-year client relationship, and get the inside scoop on automating onboard bookings for passive income.  Plus, stick around for a major announcement at the end of the episode that you won't want to miss!  Visit Korrine's Website: https://www.travelbizboss.com/ Connect with Korrine on Social: https://www.instagram.com/travelbizboss/, https://www.facebook.com/travelbizboss/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/korrinejohnson/ Questions this episode answers: What commission rates can travel advisors earn on cruise bookings?What's included in a custom cruise experience that clients pay fees for?Which cruise lines are best for families vs adults-only travelers?What's the difference between mass market, premium, and luxury cruise lines?How do you match clients to the right cruise line for their needs?How do you build authority as a cruise specialist travel advisor?What training should new cruise-focused travel advisors complete first?How do you sell cruises without having been on one yourself? What questions should you ask cruise line BDMs at trade shows?What's the best way to transition from selling everything to cruise specialization? Enjoy (and take action)! --------------------------------------------------------------- Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/ Say HI on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL: rita@steeryourmarketing.com

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Each week I share, along with featured guests, tangible and practical business strategies for travel entrepreneurs.We discuss foundations, marketing, sales, client experience, systems, supplier relations, and everything in between to empower you to run an effective and profitable travel business, and not just another travel hobby.For travel agents, travel advisors, travel suppliers, tour operators, tourism professionals, travel coaches, travel creators, travel business owners, travel agency owners, host agency owners, and travel industry support partners.

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