whether you book travel online or through a brick and mortar agency you need to understand the basics of booking.

One of a new travel agent's major moves is to learn how to properly book travel online or not.

Whether you book travel online or at a brick and mortar travel agency learning the basic of booking is an important skill.

Learning to book travel online or not properly should be one of a new travel agent's major moves.

There are steps that need to be taken and done properly before a agent can call a transaction successful.

First you need to get information about what the client wants. Translation: Ask questions! find out all you can.

The client might not know exactly what they're looking for.That's why they came to you. Ask them if they will allow you to make certain choices for them as the expert, then present those options to them to choose from.

On my wife and I last trip to Orlando/Bahamas we went with the suggestions our travel agent made because options fit what we were looking for.

The next step would be to do your research. Gather information so that you can help your client make a informed decision as our agent did for us. You'll want to check what's available and the best pricing.

Depending on your clients reaction to your information you may have to continue your research but that's not a bad thing. The bottom line is to get it right.

You want to be prepared for the obvious questions your client may have granted you may not be able to anticipate every question your client may have. Once again this is where asking specific questions of your client will eliminate a lot of confusion.

The next step you hope is successful is making the sale. The term Making the Sale means guiding the client to a decision. After the facts are gathered and you present them properly to your client, this should lead your client to make a good decision.

After completing the previous three steps and getting the "Okay" from your client you're going to want to book the trip. I bet You thought after making the sale that it was finished! That's what it usually means but here that's just one of the steps. Now you'll need to start talking to the suppliers. Depending on the trip you book and the company you deal with makes it easy to match with the information you have.

As a new agent there are things you may overlook in the process.

Expiration dates and security codes(3 numbers on the back of the card)on the credit card.

Correct name exactly as is on the card.

Address the bill goes to

Correct phone number (daytime or other)

If that person flies a lot and whether they have a frequent flier number, client id number for any "affinity programs" for hotels,car rentals etc.

Passport numbers

Special request(ex. special diet)

Your agency IATA number which separates you from other agencies. I wouldn't want to be giving my hard earned commission to someone else.

Your agencies phone number(the correct one because your agency may have multiple numbers).

Last but not least you want to confirm the booking with you're client. Go over the pertinent parts of the booking(date, time, supplier, etc.) this is done to protect your clients interest and your back.

Let the suppliers help you during this process, let them know that you're new and may need their assistance in completing this transaction. They'll be some who want to help so they can get that sale.

GOOD LUCK!

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