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This week's MAC Chat features our interview with MailPound's August MVP, Jason Izzi of VIP Vacations, Inc.
Why did you decide to become involved in the travel industry and were you in a different industry prior?
I became involved by accident. I was planning several trips while in high school, and really enjoyed it. As time went on it became a passion to be a part of making great memories for my clients. I was in the customer service industry my whole life.
What was the biggest obstacle (if any) that you had to overcome in the beginning of your career as a travel professional?
I think my biggest obstacle was finding a host company I could trust. I only had to go through one before finding my current company. I signed on with VIP Vacations Inc. and that has been the best decision of my travel career. I can honestly say that I work with the best team in the travel industry.
What is the best marketing technique that you use to reach your clients and how do you get them to become repeat clients?
I use several. I use the social media outlets that are available, and have had some positive outcomes with them. I also do several mailings a year with my sales letters. I advertise in the local papers and the wedding sections of those papers. I still find that word of mouth is the best.
What is the most challenging aspect of this industry for you?
I would say the state of our economy. Although, this year has been good so far I still think people have in their head that it is too expensive to travel. If they only knew the deals out there I feel they would reconsider. Everybody needs to take a vacation, all work and no play is not healthy.
What do you enjoy the most about this industry and what is your best advice for travel agents just beginning their career?
I enjoy turning my clients travel dreams into lifelong memories. My passion is working with a client to meet their budget and overcoming all obstacles in the way of that once in a lifetime vacation. What makes all of this possible is working with a great team. I believe that I work for the best travel agency in the industry in Vip Vacations Inc. They truly are the best at what we do. I am lucky to work for them.
My advice to new agents is to educate yourself about the industry. Find a company that you can trust and that will help you along. There are many companies that will collect a big fee and then you will be left on your own. Last but certainly not least is follow up! Do not leave your clients and potential clients hanging. Follow up with them either through email, text, or a phone call. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
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