From high-street travel agent to thriving business owner – Hayley’s journey to freedom

With peaks 2025 fast approaching, are you filled with dread thinking about the targets, pressure, and lack of financial reward that are going to be prevalent in just a few short months? Meet Hayley Roberts, who joined us in March 2024 after making the decision to step away from her job at a high-street travel agency to set up on her own as a Travel Counsellor.

Read on to find out why it’s the best decision she’s made.

Hi Hayley. Tell us a little bit about what you were doing prior to becoming a Travel Counsellor

Prior to becoming a Travel Counsellor, I worked for a high-street travel agency, but it was a 45-minute commute each way. It became too much, with long hours for no rewards. So, I decided to look into setting up my own business.

Why did you want to set up your own travel business?

For many years, my customers, friends, and family have told me to set up my own business - but it was having the right funding behind me to be able to take the plunge. Now was the right time. I was also fed up of being a top seller with no rewards.

What was it about Travel Counsellors that stood out to you? Did you explore any other franchises?

I decided to look into Travel Counsellors as there’s a Travel Counsellor based in my local area. I did some research to find out what it was all about. I also looked into Hays but it wasn't for me. Travel Counsellors had fabulous reviews and offered a lot of back-up support – which is super important. The whole family feel also appealed to me.

How did you find the induction and onboarding?

It was very intense with a lot crammed into the two weeks! Seven months on and I’m still learning something new every day.

What’s been your secret to success so far?

My secret to success is that I live in a place where everyone knows everyone – and they know that I’ve been in travel for 25 years. I can pass on all of my experience and knowledge via social media. People tag me and recommend me all the time, which is amazing. I also have lots of super happy customers that have booked repeatedly with me. They love the personal touches that I offer, such as hand-delivering their tickets.

What are you enjoying most about being a Travel Counsellor?

I enjoy the flexibility and the financial gains of being a Travel Counsellor the most, and I just love having my own business. I work from an office space, so I now have walk-in customers too – which adds to my sales. I still do a lot remotely at home, but it’s nice to have a mix and to be able to work wherever I want. Having my own beautiful office is a dream come true!

What are your goals for the next 6-12 months?

I’d love to reach Gold in my first year.

What would you say to anyone who’s thinking about joining Travel Counsellors?

To anyone thinking of doing it ...do it! However, you need the financial back-up for the first 12 months while you build up your business. As long as you have that then don't hesitate.

Whether you already sell holidays or are brand new to the travel industry, Travel Counsellors has a training programme for everyone. If you’re craving the freedom to be your own boss, with uncapped earnings and all the support you need to succeed, Travel Counsellors could be the ideal next step for you. To get a better feel for our community and award-winning business model, book onto one of our upcoming Discovery Events.