Megan Hill. (Source: Megan Hill)
Success Stories focuses on veteran travel advisors and how they achieved success. We'd like to introduce you to Megan Hill, owner of Destination Fun Travel.
How did you start working as a travel advisor?
I grew up in a family that shared a passion for travel. Our passion for travel was spearheaded by our grandparents, who took us on frequent trips around the world. I've always loved traveling, but when I first went to Africa in 1986, I fell in love with it. I thought Africa was the most amazing place I've ever been to.
That's when I decided I wanted to travel everywhere in the world. From that point on, traveling and exploring the world became my top priority. I truly enjoy learning and experiencing the different cultures, history, cuisines, traditions, and natural beauties of the world.
I founded Destination Fun Travel in 2008 after a successful 15-year career in the pharmaceutical industry with Wyeth (Pfizer) and Abbott. Although I really enjoyed the pharmaceutical industry, my passion was still traveling and experiencing the world. I decided to make travel not only my passion but my career.
How did you build your business?
When I first opened my agency, I operated alone and my goal was to exceed every client's expectations with phenomenal customer service. I selected and partnered with several travel wholesalers to make the most of his BDM support while analyzing the market.
I was very dedicated to my customers and provided excellent customer service. I wanted my clients to feel special, as if they were the only clients I was working with that day. Initially, my business grew primarily through word of mouth and bridal shows. (I purchased a fun customized Destination Fun Travel bar display, which really made the agency stand out at the show).
As the agency grew, I began hiring employees and advisors to assist me. I personally trained them and watched them succeed. Teamwork is the main focus of this agency as we all help, support and encourage each other.
What characteristics make you a successful advisor?
When I was in the pharmaceutical industry, I was a trainer for both Wyeth and Abbott. I have found this training extremely helpful for agents, agents, and clients in helping them think outside the box, analyze the market, and find niches and markets for their agencies.
I love brainstorming with other successful advisors, brainstorming what they're doing that works, and then implementing those items with my team. I encourage all advisors to create a business plan and document their ideas, thoughts, obstacles, and goals and refer to it throughout the year.
What was your biggest challenge?
I started my own agency around the time when online travel agencies such as Expedia were starting to become popular. But we knew OTAs couldn't replace agents because there will always be clients who want/need someone to take their travel to the next level.
Of course, the biggest challenge overall was COVID-19 and the global shutdown. But COVID-19 has created a whole new passion and opportunity for advisors. Agents and advisors have become smarter through COVID-19, ensuring that all customer booking approvals are documented in line with supplier terms and conditions, and that insurance acceptances/rejections are always received in writing from the customer and documented. We have refined our operating and working methods, such as by changing the COVID-19 was a golden age. An opportunity for people to experience and understand the value of travel advisors first-hand. Post-COVID-19, we have become better advisors and agency owners, and I think we can confidently say that today's travel industry is smarter and better than ever before.
What is your greatest accomplishment?
My biggest accomplishment so far has been ensuring the success of the agency and my amazing team of advisors. The agency is focused on providing a collaborative team environment to support, encourage and coach advisors to succeed.
Years ago, before sales reached the current level, I was invited to the Sandals Stars Awards. I was honored to be a part of it and am very grateful to Sandals and other travel partners for seeing my potential. It helped me network with others at the event. During my travels, I took lots of notes from successful advisors.
It was only a few years later that I stood on that stage and won a big award. It certainly brings a great sense of accomplishment and pride. Agency and Destination Fun Travel Advisors, along with our many agency partners, from ALGV to Classic Vacations, Sandals and Beach Resorts, and more, win numerous sales awards each year. This is achieved through training, collaboration, support, trust and teamwork.
What tips can you offer advisors new to the industry?
Think outside the box and find great opportunities to sell travel in your community. This can be done through social media, networking, and consumer events to find needs and niches in the market that meet and exceed expectations. I encourage all advisors to look deep within themselves, find what they enjoy booking, and focus on their loves and passions.
We always listen to our clients' needs and desires. Advisors tend to want to book their own budget rather than their client's travel budget. Satisfied customers become repeat customers, so always try to upsell them. It's always better to keep your promises and over-promise.
We recommend starting your quote with an ocean view or ocean front concierge level room. After that, advisors may be added or removed depending on the client's wishes and needs.
We also recommend paying your advisor personally to experience a butler suite. That way, you can speak honestly and passionately to prospective customers about your experience and why spending a little more money could take their travel experience to the next level.
Take advantage of the many resources available through our travel suppliers and partners. When it comes to marketing, be sure to find the best networking opportunities.
Most importantly, I enjoy my job as a travel advisor. This is truly one of the most fulfilling careers he has had and he is honored to be a part of the travel community.
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