Home-Based Travel Agent - September 2007 - (Page 16)

YOUR Lifeline FOR THE AGENT Continued from page 14 Many of the companies that set up credit card merchant accounts will not consider travel agencies.” Several companies turned Rose down until she learned about Outside Sales Support Network, a trade association that specializes in travel agencies. “They were a joy to work with,” says Rose. Phil Bryant of Travel Specialists says that he had little trouble working through Nexion, a network of independent travel professionals. You know, of course, that it’s always best to keep your personal and business finances separate. In order to do that properly, you’ll need to have a bank account in your business name. Before your bank will open a new account in the name of your business, it will have to see evidence of proper registration. For a sole proprietorship or partnership, you’ll need a certificate of registration with your proper state or county office. If you are incorporated, a copy of your articles of incorporation will suffice. Doing your research will help you become prepared for the necessary work involved in setting up your business properly Connecting to the World Arguably, no other part of an agency set up is more personal than the choice of an Internet and phone service provider. In all likelihood, you already have both an Internet and phone service provider for your personal needs. If you’re happy with the service you’re getting, it’s probably best to stick with a company you know. Many of the larger telecommunications companies such as Verizon, AT&T and Qwest provide Internet, cell phone and land line phone service. Most of these companies offer package deals that can save you considerable amounts of money if you use the same provider for all three services. Travel Specialists has such a package deal with Qwest. And, of course, it’s possible to operate a travel agency without a web site (Bryant says, “We considered it, but decided we didn’t need it”), but it’s not recommended. In the minds of most agents, working without a web site becomes more impractical with every passing year. In our electronic age, most vacationers and business travelers have come to rely on the Internet for basic travel planning. “It’s important to have an online presence,” says Rose.“We’ve always had a web site and it has undergone numerous iterations since we started.” Rose feels that it’s best to outsource the job of designing and setting up a site. “Being a travel consultant and agency owner is a full-time job, so I did not want to take valuable time to learn how to become a web site designer.” You should have no trouble getting recommendations for a site designer from among your personal network of business associates. If that doesn’t work, try (where else?) the Internet. See “The ABCs of Creating a Web Site,” page 20, for specific info on creating and maintaining a web site. But Wait, There’s More Just when you think you’ve thought of everything, something else will pop up. Don’t forget business cards and stationery. For a professional look, you’ll need a logo. While computers and easyto-use software make it possible to design your own logo, it’s probably not a good idea. If there’s a graphic design school near you, a student artist may be able to do the job for you at little cost. Otherwise, ask for recommendations from your business associates or local print shop owner, or try Craigslist. Obviously, the road that leads from the world of employee to the world of entrepreneur is chock full of bumps and potholes. However, most of those who have made the journey say that arrival at the final destination made it all worthwhile. Remember the advice that you give your own travel clients about advance planning; it will serve you as well. — William J. Lynott 16 Home-BasedTravelAgent S E P T E M B E R 2007 PHOTO BY ISTOCK PHOTOS

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Home-Based Travel Agent - September 2007

Contents Editor's Note - Last-Minute Travel Publisher's Note - Communication is Key Your Lifeline Agent Spotlight Your Technology Industry News Hot Deals Home-Based Networking Preventing Legal Woes Destinations: Turkey Cover Story: Walking Ireland Destinations: Caribbean Destinations: Boston Cruises: Forecast Hotels Tours New Products

Home-Based Travel Agent - September 2007

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