Have you always dreamed of helping families create magical Disney vacations? The Disney travel agent profession lets you share your passion for the “Happiest Place on Earth” as a career. However, it’s important to understand what’s involved before starting your agent journey. This guide will walk you through the basics of becoming a Disney travel agent, from getting certified to marketing your new business.
Understanding The Disney Travel Agent Profession
As a Disney travel agent, you’ll work with clients to plan custom itineraries combining parks, hotels, and other Disney experiences. You’ll help guests navigate ticket options, dining reservations, and Genie+ lightning lanes to maximize their trips.
It’s a detail-oriented job where every day is different. You’ll strive to give families magical memories to last a lifetime. While rewarding, you must also dedicate time to training, continuing education on new Disney offerings, and growing your client base.
Getting Started As An Independent Agent
Unlike traditional travel agencies, you cannot directly join Disney’s agent program. You’ll need to sign up with an approved Disney-certified agency first. Research top-rated home-based agencies to see which fits your needs.
Make sure they offer comprehensive training and support your independent lifestyle. Complete the agency’s application explaining your qualifications – a passion for Disney is key, but customer service experience can help.
Once accepted, dive into the extensive Disney training modules covering destinations, ticketing, and more. Expect to spend 20-40 hours getting certified.
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Marketing Your New Disney Travel Business
Certification is just the start – now it’s time to drum up business! Leverage your Disney superfan status by getting active on social media. Compile your favorite Disney photos and your certification to build credibility.
Connect with local Facebook groups and start answering Disney trip-planning questions. Promote your new business to friends and family, too. Pay attention to in-person marketing. Contact travel agencies, kids activity centers, and companies open to sharing your brochures.
Offering discounts for early bookings can jumpstart bookings as well.
Providing Top-Notch Client Service
The backbone of any successful business lies in repeat clients and word-of-mouth referrals. Ensure memorable first impressions by quickly responding to emails and phone calls. Carefully listen to understand family budgets and trip priorities.
Provide various customized Disney package quotes with pro and con explanations. Offer post-booking support by answering questions right up to their departure. By going above and beyond, clients will happily recommend you to others seeking personalized Disney magic.
Tips For Long-Term Career Success
Don’t rest on your laurels once certification is complete. Continually upgrading your skills through new certification classes keeps your Disney knowledge fresh.
Over time, consider cultivating niche specialties, like planning special needs vacations or luxury bookings. Develop itineraries highlighting these specialties for your website.
Choose the right setup to manage client relationships and bookings efficiently. A good option is to look for integrated CRM tools that cover the entire planning process.
Above all, relentless passion for the Disney brand will fuel decades of success with this immensely rewarding career.
In Closing
Becoming a Disney travel agent professional lets you infuse magic into people’s lives daily. By putting in the initial training legwork and consistently growing your business skills, you can build a lasting career surrounded by all things Disney.