“I never dreamt that I could earn the money I’m earning now.” – Gayle went from single mum to Gold franchisee

Gayle recently popped into our head office to celebrate her ten-year anniversary with Travel Counsellors – and it’s safe to say her life now is unrecognisable from what it was back then. Over the past decade, she’s become one of our top-performing Gold franchisees and has had some incredible opportunities to experience some amazing destinations around the world – so she can better sell them to her customers.

We caught up with Gayle over a glass of fizz to find out just how much she’s transformed her life by setting up her franchise with Travel Counsellors.

Hi Gayle – congratulations on your 10th anniversary as a Travel Counsellor! What’s been your highlight over the past decade?

My highlight has definitely been hitting Gold, which I achieved for the first time in April 2022. It took me nine years to get there, although some people do it really quickly. I was able to grow my business at the rate that I wanted to, based around my family. Now that I’ve achieved Gold, I’m really proud of it and I don’t want to lose it.

What are the best things about being a Travel Counsellor?

Where do I start? There are so many good things! If I had to narrow it down to just two, I’d say the people first and foremost. I’ve got so many good friends. In fact, one of my best friends is a Travel Counsellor. She lives miles away from me, but we talk so much. You meet so many interesting people. We’ve got a great community and there’s always somebody there who you can speak to.

Secondly, I’d say the flexibility. I’ve been able to fit work around my children, so it’s helped my family life brilliantly. I also really like the flexibility to sell what’s right for my customers, rather than being told which products or destinations I must sell. I can choose what is right for them, as we’ve got access to so many different suppliers.

What opportunities have you had since joining us as a franchisee?

I’ve recently been on a fam trip to Antigua with Sandals. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet our suppliers and other Travel Counsellors, as well as being a great way to learn about the product.

I find that if you utilise your social media platforms and post about where you’ve been, it really helps you to generate sales for that particular hotel or destination – which is really important.

In August, I was also lucky enough to go on board a brand-new cruise ship with 20 other Travel Counsellors. We had a fantastic time getting to know each other and getting to know the product. Learning everything you can about wherever you are helps you to make sales.

What impact has being a Travel Counsellor had on your lifestyle?

It’s completely changed my life. I started as a single mum on every single benefit going. I never dreamt that I could be earning the money that I’m earning now. It’s enabled me to become financially secure and to look after my children in ways I never expected to be able to. I’ve got flexibility and uncapped earning potential. It’s amazing and I absolutely love it.

It’s been great talking to you Gayle. Finally, what advice would you give to someone who’s thinking about joining Travel Counsellors?

When I first started thinking about becoming a Travel Counsellor, I didn’t do anything about it for around a year. It took me a while. I think you need to be in the right mindset and ensure it’s the right time for you. You definitely need to have a little bit of money behind you because you’re not going to earn straight away. Having enough money to see you through the first few months is so important. Stick with it because you will get out what you put in. The more effort you put into your business, the more results you will see.

Picture yourself in Gayle’s shoes. Imagine just how different your life could be in a year’s time if you take the plunge and join our caring community of travel professionals. Whether you’re craving a change from your 9-5, or are curious about what the longest-running travel franchise could offer you, we have a route of entry for everyone. You don’t need previous travel experience, as we’ll give you all the training and support you need.

Get in touch with our friendly New Franchise team and let’s make 2024 the year that you take control of your own destiny.