Outstanding Destinations — where do I start? | Travel Research Online

Image
Image

Outstanding Destinations — where do I start?

Is this year flying by fast or what!!

So much to do, so little time. I have a huge bridal show coming up at the end of the month, so the last month has been spent trying to decide the theme and getting all the collateral and displays I need to work the show. I am very excited about this show as I am mostly going to showcase my agency–in the past, it was supplier focused. I look forward to a great turn out and more clients for the 2014 wedding/honeymoon season.

And of course you still have work, take care of family life and make sure it all balances out.

I have been struggling with the amount of time I spend on doing research for my clients before charging them for the work. I hate to spend hours to find the perfect spot, only to have the client not book. How do you handle this situation? I noticed there seems to be no “accepted” fee or process. But I do understand that I need to be compensated, but it is a daunting task.

How do you decide on the amount you will charge for fees? Is it a case by case, or is it a flat fee no matter what you do? Do you explain the fee right up front and explain all the work you will do to earn it? How do you deal with the clients who always push for a little more?

And finally, I really want to organize my time more efficiently. Being a home-based agent, I tend to accept calls at all hours. I love what I do and it is hard to let go of the excitement of my job at day’s end.  Being new, I need help and hopefully these TRO Diaries (and you) will help!

Jenna Kameka, with Outstanding Destinations, is a Certified Sandals Specialist, GI Wedding Consultant, and a Specialist for  Jamaica, Mexico, Cayman Islands, and Puerto Rico. She is also an Anchorage Wild Expert and specializes in destination weddings & honeymoons.

  2 thoughts on “Outstanding Destinations — where do I start?

  1. Lori Derauf says:

    Hi Jenna,
    I usually offer a free consultation to talk about their plans, whether its on the phone or in person. I don’t do any research at this point. After I learn about their trip I let them know what my fee or deposit would be should they hire me. That is collected before I do any research. I don’t charge a fee for already put together packages such as an escorted tour, all inclusive vacation or cruise. The upfront dollars go toward the trip should they take it and is nonrefundable if they don’t book. I do charge a research fee for any FIT or complicated bookings – minimum of $100 per country. Don’t over explain why you charge, just make sure they understand how you work. Good luck.

  2. Jenna Kameka says:

    Thank you Lori! I like that.

Share your thoughts on “Outstanding Destinations — where do I start?”

You must be a registered user and be logged in to post a comment.