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Success stories focus on how veteran consultants achieved success. Consider Claire Schoeder, an Atlanta-based adventure travel contractor.
How did you get started as a travel consultant?
I started traveling when my husband changed jobs and joined a company that often transfers workers. I was a high school teacher and every time we moved to another state I had to requalify. I worked doing corporate training for a while but I wasn’t happy. I saw an ad for a travel school in Omaha, Neb., signed up and stared at my career.
How have you built your business over the years?
I had a great mentor in travel and transportation in Paula Clark when I started my career. Her guidance set me on the right path to building a successful career. I attended as many educational seminars as possible.
And I went. My husband is from Luxembourg so we regularly travel to Europe to visit family and friends. When I started in the industry I was very familiar with the ins and outs of international travel, which gave me a solid foundation to build on.
I taught geography for a few years, which was a big plus for me. We went aboard, inland and to the Caribbean so that I could get to know that type of travel.
I began to specialize in traveling to Scotland and England. I traveled to both places as much as possible and also studied British history at university. My knowledge of history, combined with personal visits there, made it a good choice for my specialty.
What qualities make you a successful consultant?
I treat every client as if they were my only client. I listen and listen to what they have to say. And I offer my advice and am willing to tell clients that what they need on vacation may not be what they need.
What have been your biggest challenges?
This is difficult to answer because many challenges are unique to individual travelers. The biggest challenge for me was learning to work with luxury/high end clients. I started to change my thinking and think like these customers. And learn how to keep my thoughts from coming in my voice as I embark on a more luxury-focused career path. I worked with two agents who taught me great ways to present options to my luxury/high end clients.
What were your greatest achievements?
My biggest job is because I have a profession that I love and excel at. I have been recognized by national publications and regularly quoted in various industry magazines. I have clients of many years who rely on me for their journeys and refer many clients to me. I think career satisfaction is one of the best things in life.
What advice would you give to new consultants in the industry?
Learn as much as you can. Travel – and not always on fam trips. Do things like a regular traveler and see what your customers experience. Learn – take seminars, attend meetings, ask questions. Look for an established advisor as a consultant. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice. If you don’t know the answer, believe me and research the information.
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