Why attending one of our Discovery events could be the game-changer you’re looking for - Laura's story

If you're considering a career change or looking to get back into the travel industry, attending a Discovery Event could be the first step toward an exciting new chapter in your life. That’s exactly what Laura Hawke did, and she’s now the proud owner of a Travel Counsellors franchise. Find out why joining us at our events played such a pivotal role in her decision to join our community.

Hi Laura! Tell us a bit about your career before becoming a Travel Counsellor

For the last 10 years, I’ve been fortunate enough to be a stay-at-home Mum to two children – Poppy and Harry. Before that, I worked in retail. I was a Merchandiser for Topshop, based at their Head Office in central London.

What was it that appealed to you about Travel Counsellors?

I’ve always wanted to work within travel, and it’s something I’ve spent the last two years researching and thinking about.

I was looking for something that would work around the family - where I could work from home, but most importantly to me, still be a part of a community and team. I knew I wanted more than just flexible hours – I wanted to have ‘colleagues’. And I’m pleased to say I found it all in Travel Counsellors. From the initial call with Angela in the Franchise Sales team to coming to ‘Venus’ (Travel Counsellors’ Support Hub in Manchester) for a Discovery Day, I already felt part of a team. There was no question as to whether I was going to join – it was just a case of when.

In addition to the Discovery Day, you recently attended one of our TC Together mini conferences. Why was it important for you to come along to our events?

I wanted to see the company first-hand, soak up the environment, and get a real feel for how it all works.

I would 100% recommend this to anyone thinking of becoming a Travel Counsellor, and it’s something that the Franchise Sales team also actively encourage. To see Venus, and to be able to come along to TC Together (even though at this point I still hadn’t signed up) was incredible.

You get a real insight into the brand, how the company works, and what you should expect as a Travel Counsellor. I loved both days.

How did attending these events influence your decision to join?

Seeing the Travel Counsellors community come together, and witnessing the amount of support and resources available to you was so eye-opening. I had many lengthy chats with Angela, and she talked so highly of the company and the community, but there is nothing like seeing it first-hand.

How have you found the recruitment and induction process?

It’s been fantastic – I couldn’t have asked for more. Angela was encouraging and supportive. The Franchise Sales team clearly understands it must be the right time, and that for some people that might be two or three years from that initial call. There was no pressure at all.

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

There are so many things, but I would say the community, the support network, the booking systems (Phenix), the resources available to you, their strong supplier relationships, as well as the branding and overall reputation of the company.

How did you know it was the right time to join Travel Counsellors?

Ten years at home is a long time, and much longer than I ever expected it to be. The children were becoming more independent, and I didn’t want to leave myself with nothing, having supported my husband’s career for many years.

I started looking into homeworking roles about two years ago, so I gave myself plenty of time to make the right choice.

What are you looking forward to most about being a Travel Counsellor?

Building a business that I can be really proud of. I truly believe Travel Counsellors gives you all the tools and support to do exactly that, in whichever way is best for you.

An odd FAM trip or two would be a bonus!

Why do you think it’s important for potential joiners to attend one of our Discovery events?

Because you truly get to see Travel Counsellors ‘at work’. You get to see the departments, meet the teams, and sit in the TCTV studio.

Having chats over the phone is one thing, but seeing it is quite another. I can’t imagine anyone not wanting to be a Travel Counsellor after visiting Venus.

Has Laura’s story given you the gentle nudge you needed to sign up to one of our no-pressure Discovery events? Don’t delay, book your place today! We hope to meet you very soon.