“I’ve been telling my industry friends how amazing the support teams and systems are” - why Kerryn chose to set up her business with Travel Counsellors

Kerryn relocated from Australia to the UK back in 2019, following a 25-year career in the travel industry. After starting a family, she wanted to get back to her passion and set up her own travel business.

She explored various homeworking companies, but Kerryn decided to set up her franchise with Travel Counsellors. We spoke to her to find out why, and to see how the first few months of her exciting new journey have panned out.

Hello, Kerryn! Could you tell us a bit about your career to date?

Directly before becoming a Travel Counsellor, I was a full-time mum. But prior to that, I worked for another tour operator in Australia for 25 years.

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

Travel has always been in my blood, and it was now a suitable time in my life for me to get back into something I’ve always loved doing. Becoming a Travel Counsellor would give me the ability to manage my own time and not have to miss out on those precious family moments.

What stood out to you about Travel Counsellors? Did you explore franchise opportunities with other companies?

I did quite a bit of research on different home-working options within the UK and I chose Travel Counsellors for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the ‘Return to Travel’ route of entry was reasonably priced, as were the ongoing fees.

However, what stood out the most for me was the complete support offered by colleagues at the support centre. I really liked the ability to run my own business my way, with systems in place to allow me to give my customers the best experience – without being bogged down by ‘back office’ jobs.

How did you find the recruitment process?

I was quite nervous when I first made the call, but Angela Paskin in the New Franchise team was really welcoming. She gave me the confidence that it was the right decision for me.

How would you describe the training you’ve received so far?

If I’m honest, the induction was a bit of a shock to the system! However, the trainers, Dawn and Ben, were amazing and very patient. Now I look back on those first two weeks, I can’t believe how much I learnt! It also reminded me how much I already knew – it was just a case of recalling the information. I love that I have a mentor on hand to answer any questions.

What advice would you give to anyone who’s considering becoming a Travel Counsellor?

Do it! You’ll be completely supported throughout the whole journey. I’ve been telling my industry friends how amazing the support teams and systems are.

It’s been great chatting to you, Kerryn! Finally, what are your goals for your business for 2024?

I’d like to work towards my business becoming THE place to book travel in my local village. I currently have another high-street agency as a competitor. I want to show people what I can offer them and make them realise that there’s more to being a travel agent than just the transactional side.

Have you been out of travel for a while and are longing to get back into an industry you love? We’d love to welcome you into our caring community of more than 2,000 travel professionals around the world. Why not book onto one of our upcoming events and get a taste of life as a Travel Counsellor? Alternatively, fill out this short form and we’ll be in touch very soon.