Shana O'Mara (Source: Shana O'Mara)
Travel Advisor Success Stories focuses on veteran travel advisors and how they achieved success. Introducing Shanna O'Mara, owner of Pixie Travel.
How did you start working as a travel advisor?
I had been self-employed for several years when I decided to step into the world of travel. I knew I liked working for myself, but I hadn't found my passion yet. My best friend, who eventually became my business partner, planted the seed after I saved him money by helping him book flights and hotels, saying, “You should do this for a living.” Ta.
A few months later, I decided to apply to the agency as an independent contractor. Even though I had an MBA and a great network, I didn't pass the interview. I took advantage of the opportunity and jumped right in to start my own agency. This was his 2016 and he hasn't looked back yet.
How have you built your business over the years?
We believe that social media presence has helped build our business. We had a consistent presence from the beginning and worked with our social media manager to ensure we had a clear brand and message. He currently has over 28,000 followers across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. This presence and referrals from our loyal guests have contributed to the growth of our business over the years.
What characteristics make you a successful advisor?
I have experience in counseling and business and have master's degrees in both fields. I love that this field allows me to use my business skills on a daily basis. More importantly, I've focused on surrounding myself with the best people. My business partner and best friend is the perfect compliment to me. She has skills in areas that I don't, and vice versa. We often rely on each other. We also focus on bringing in the best planners to balance our team.
What was your biggest challenge?
Like most agencies, 2020 was incredibly challenging. At the time of COVID-19, we had just hit $1 million in sales, and over 90% of our business was at Disneyland. Disneyland had been closed for over 16 months, so the impact was devastating. Together with my business partner and an amazing marketing director, we were able to focus on reopening destinations and rebuild the business from the ground up.
What is your greatest accomplishment?
Last year, we achieved Disney Earmarked status. Additionally, we are in his third year as his ALG Vacations Elite Diamond agent. We love these results because we are an independent agency with only 12 of his planners. I always want to focus on exceptional service to our customers and that is what I am most proud of.
What tips can you offer advisors new to the industry?
Participate in all the training and travel, travel, travel. What saved our business in 2020 was going to new destinations. We have a “just try it and you'll understand'' mentality, and that's still our focus. We are always expanding and always learning.
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