From IT systems to dream itineraries – Danielle's career switch with Travel Counsellors

After years of working behind the scenes in the travel industry, Danielle wanted a new challenge— one that allowed her to be her own boss while helping clients create extraordinary journeys. Seven months after joining Travel Counsellors, she’s not only transformed her career but also found personal fulfilment through the freedom and sense of community that defines the Travel Counsellors experience.

Here’s how she made the leap and how this inspiring career change could be just what you’re looking for.

Hi Danielle! What did you do before becoming a Travel Counsellor?

Before I joined Travel Counsellors, I spent many years in travel working on IT systems, processes, and customer websites. I looked at ways to enhance the customer journey by bringing in new products – so my experience has always been in travel, but more on the operational side rather than selling.

Why did you decide to join Travel Counsellors?

I wanted to become a Travel Counsellor because I wanted to take a dip into the other side, into selling. Having always been in travel, I’d experienced different destinations but never actually worked with customers and clients to sell it.

I decided to take the plunge because there was a lot of flexibility and freedom. I could run my own business, be my own boss, and I was keen to see where I could get to.

Did you consider other options before choosing Travel Counsellors?

Yes, I looked at quite a few different travel companies. I think it’s always good to do your research and see what fits best for you. When you enquire with Travel Counsellors, you’re encouraged to look around and see what’s out there.

For me, the flexibility, the systems, the support were all key factors as to why I decided to choose Travel Counsellors.

What makes Travel Counsellors different?

I think it’s the support, the caring nature, and the encouragement to for you to do well, and to run your business however you want to do it. It's total freedom and flexibility, but there’s a support team there ready to guide and push you to get you to where you want to go – whether it’s achieving a new goal, reaching new customers, or working with other Travel Counsellors.

What's your favourite part of being a Travel Counsellor?

For me, it’s all about getting people to places and making that journey easy for them. My aim is to make the whole experience personal, interactive, and enjoyable. I love sitting at my desk, pressing ‘book’, knowing that someone’s going to go on holiday and have a great time.

What surprised you the most about joining Travel Counsellors?

I wasn’t expecting how emotional the experience would be. It was a big change for me, but it wasn’t a negative emotion. There’s a lot of excitement and it’s a lot fun, and you also get the opportunity to work with new people. But there’s also a lot to learn. Day to day, it can be an emotional rollercoaster, but with a lot of highs.

How was the training and onboarding process?

Wow – the training and onboarding at Travel Counsellors is amazing. The support is there even before you join via the information and communications you receive. The induction itself is a great two-week, team session where you’ve got a trainer with you all the time. The trainer is very empathetic to the journey that you’re on, and always available.

From that, it just grows and grows and you get to meet more of the team, with Relationship Management. They’re there to help you build your business, to help with any issues, to help just reassure you that there are other people and other Travel Counsellors around to help you. You can even be in a team with fellow Travel Counsellors.

The support and engagement are next-level, and it’s completely up to you in terms of how much you get involved and what you give to the community – and therefore, what you get back from the community.

How has becoming a Travel Counsellor changed your life?

Becoming a Travel Counsellor has really changed my life, more than I thought it would – more than I thought it could. Yes, I’m still at my desk 9-5 and sometimes even later, but I feel freer in myself. I’m much more fun. I’m much more energetic. I love being sat at my desk doing my job.

I’m happier and I’m learning constantly, and that’s really building me as a person. Knowing that I’ve got the Relationship Management team to tap into, and support there as well, makes me feel like I’m not on my own. It’s a really great place to be.

What ongoing training opportunities have you had?

The opportunities to grow and develop are endless. The ‘Set Sail’ programme I’ve joined provides fantastic insights into various cruise lines and includes engaging webinars and ship visits.

At Head Office, they have lots of supplier days where you can go in and meet suppliers – whether that’s a destination you’re already aware of, or somewhere you’re less familiar with so you want to go and build those connections. There are also lots of supplier webinars to help you improve your knowledge and build relationships, so you know who to go to when you get an enquiry through for a particular destination.

What advice would you give to someone considering joining Travel Counsellors?

I would say to do your research and reach out to different companies. Get that feel and connection, and have those deep conversations. Ask all the key questions that are important to you. Then, try and experience a ‘day in the life of’ - do the Discovery Day with Travel Counsellors so you can see how things really work.

Then just be really honest with yourself and ask yourself if it’s what you really want. Are you ready to put in the hard work? Because it is hard work! Are you ready to grow and build, and become part of a really great community? If so, Travel Counsellors could be the one for you.

Take the first steps towards your dream career

Inspired by Danielle’s story? If you’re seeking freedom, flexibility, and a supportive community as a career changer, aspiring travel agent, or entrepreneur, Travel Counsellors could be the perfect fit.

Join a business that’s not just growing but thriving, and experience industry-leading support while helping others explore the world.

Discover more by booking a Discovery Day — your next adventure starts here. We look forward to welcoming you into our ambitious family of travel entrepreneurs!