High street agent to high-achieving business owner – Becky’s success story

Meet Becky Stephenson, who decided to step away from the high street to set up her very own travel business after feeling undervalued. We caught up with her to learn more about her journey, and to celebrate her recently achieving our prestigious Gold status.

Hi Becky! As someone who came from a retail environment, was there anything in particular that frustrated you?

I was lucky to have worked with some really good team players throughout my time working in retail. I never disliked working on the high street, but it was more that I was making money for a company that didn’t make me feel appreciated.

I was the part time assistant manager in the shop and was going to step us as manager to cover maternity leave, but they wouldn’t let me because I wasn’t able to commit to working 2.5 extra hours due to my husband working away and having two young children. It made me step back and evaluate what I needed to do. The rest, they say, is history!

What did achieving Gold mean to you?

I have never actually been bothered about ‘being Gold’. I always wanted to achieve more in my business in terms of sales, but the Gold status has never actually bothered me. However, it’s a lovely thing to have, and I will enjoy the extras that come with it – such as the amazing Gold trips!

What advice would you give to anyone who’s selling leisure travel who wants to be their own boss?

Do it! You will either make it work, or you won’t. But, until you try you won’t know. I have seen a lot of people come and go over the years, and it's not for everyone. Being your own boss works for a lot of people. If you are driven and want to succeed, then it’s a great place to be - but you have to remember that it's not all highs and there are plenty of lows to go through too.

No two days are the same, and no two hours are the same! You can be working on a really in-depth itinerary one minute, and then the next rearranging transfers for a flight time change, or cancelling a booking that you spent hours working on for reasons beyond your control.

What do you think sets Travel Counsellors apart from other travel franchises?

I think Travel Counsellors offers that top-level customer service. That is paramount to my business, and the reputation it carries is immense.

Are you looking to step away from a retail environment in favour of being your own boss? We’re expanding our community of travel entrepreneurs here at Travel Counsellors, and we’d love to have you on board. If you’re keen to see where we could help you take your business, book onto one of our Discovery events for a chance to learn more about what we can offer in a no-pressure environment. Don’t delay – secure your spot.