May 18, 2020
By Emily Salazar Becoming a travel agent is FUN, but becoming a Disney travel agent is so EXCITING, especially if you love Disney. I'm going to list some general information explaining how to become a Disney Travel Agent. It's not as difficult as you might think. Let’s get started.
Step 1: What type of agency does a Disney Travel Agent work for?
Do some research on this topic. There are different types of agencies you can work for. I recommend doing some research on brick and mortar agencies, opening your own agency, or working as a home-based agent.
For the purpose of this article, I will be writing about the type of agency I work for. It is a small agency named If You Can Dream It Travel.
I work as an independent contractor under a contract agreement with the owner. The agency has a network of other travel agents that work together.
Step 2: Create a marketing plan for your business
Once you apply and get hired you want to think about your business plan. Find out what the travel agency offers as far as advertising. Working for a small agency you can expect a website and other social media platforms such as Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram just to name a few. Being an independent contractor can give you the flexibility to be creative with how you advertise.
Step 3: Apply
Once you find a home-based agency you are interested in, apply, and submit all paperwork. You might be called and interviewed. It’s best to have experience with vacationing at Disney and have a passion for traveling to Disney destinations. Disney has several vacation options outside of Disney World and Disneyland. Disney travel agents can stay very busy only booking Disney destinations.
Step 4: Attract customers and keep customers
In order to attract customers, you need client feedback and referrals. Start with a friend or a family member. Exhibiting good customer service goes a long way when you are trying to build your Disney travel business. Go above and beyond for the customer and it will be worth your time. Ask clients to leave reviews on the website or your business Facebook page. Advertise on different platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Disney does offer agents brochures and mini-website builders.
Step 5: Training and Networking
I would take any opportunity to train. If your host agency doesn’t provide training, Disney does provide training on how to build Disney vacations. The name of the program is the Disney College of Knowledge. You are given a certificate and recognized for completing the online training. Work with other travel agents in the company. Networking is very important because you can learn so much from one another.
How much money do you make as a Disney Travel Agent?
This job is commission-based pay. Disney pays a 10% commission, and the agency will also take a small percentage of that commission. Once you build your clientele up, you will be rocking and rolling. It’s a good part-time job to have especially if you love Disney. This is a business, so I would keep that in mind and try to keep the business mindset. You must represent yourself, your agency and of course the Disney Company very well.
My Journey as a Disney Travel Agent
A few years ago, I was actively looking into different Disney travel agency companies. If You Can Dream It Travel had a wonderful opportunity presented to me, and I took the plunge. I applied to the agency, the owner hired me and offered some valuable information and guidance. Then I worked my way through the College of knowledge for Disney, and now I book family vacations. It brings me so much joy to help families plan. I hope to continue to do this until I no longer can.
Where can I apply?
If you're interested in becoming a travel agent, this is the perfect time for you to apply with If You Can Dream It Travel. Our agency focuses on Disney Travel however, you can also be an agent for Expedia, various cruise lines, and Universal Studios.
At this time, If You Can Dream It Travel agency is accepting applications, and if you click the link below it will take you to our website, and you will be able to fill out an application on that page.
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