Are you ready to have a successful year? 

It can be easy to get comfortable and fall into the same routines, which can be great in some cases, but in other situations, change is exactly what we need to discontinue those bad habits and mistakes. 

Here are 10 mistakes that you should avoid in 2024.

Operational

Don't run from efficiency. These days, it is all about automation and working smarter, not harder. Avoid trying to do everything and find ways to use technology and other resources to streamline your operations. Holding on to those outdated methods could be holding you back.

Using more technology to increase efficiency will also mean you need more security. Avoid the opinion that digital security isn't necessary. Ensure you have a solid VPN and other tech security measures to protect your clients, assets, and business. 

Financial

Charging fees have been a hot topic and will continue to do so until the entire industry is on one accord. Avoid thinking that you are not worthy of being paid a professional fee. Charging a fee will not only give you an additional income stream but also uplift the perception of travel advisors as a whole and show the industry and the world our true worth.

Reviewing income, expenses, and taxes can be burdensome. However, you should avoid only looking at these numbers once a year. Consider doing quarterly reviews of your finances. This will help you prepare for taxes and billing but also help hold you accountable for the financial goals you've set for the year.

Marketing

Social media has become a major form of marketing for many travel advisors. It can be easy to want to repurpose and reuse old content, which can work for some situations. However, in general, you should avoid using the same old content. Your followers are looking for new, engaging, and authentic content! Avoid the typical sales pitches, and ensure your content has your voice, as this will resonate with your audience.

While social media is a great free tool, you should avoid using only social media marketing. Consider other forms of marketing to use so that your reach is diversified. Get creative and think about different ways to reach new and existing clients. If you do not already have one, creating a marketing plan can be a great place to start for discovering new marketing strategies.

Client Relationship

Work can become very busy, but avoid forgetting about your clients! Make sure that you have a CRM system that allows you to reach out to your clients quickly and regularly. Consider sending out emails periodically and definitely avoid missing milestone celebrations for your clients, as these are great opportunities to book new vacations. 

Once the client has returned from vacation, it can be easy to close the file and move on to the next client. Avoid moving on too quickly by following up with the client to see how their vacation was. This is also a great opportunity to ask clients for feedback and reviews! 

Personal Development

Regardless of how long you've been in the industry, there is always more to learn. Avoid thinking that you have all the knowledge you need. Create a list of training and professional development goals you wish to accomplish for the year. Remember to also include networking opportunities, as they can also aid in helping you to grow as a professional.

Remember that rest is as important as work. Avoid putting yourself on the back burner, and remember to create and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Set dates throughout the year for yourself and practice self-care regularly. Allocate an amount of funds for things that bring you joy. Organize a regimen to keep your body healthy to avoid burnout.

Travel advisors have access to a myriad of discounts, benefits, and perks. However, we should not let this go to our heads. Avoid the spirit of entitlement and refrain from being rude to our industry partners. We must remember that our actions represent our brand, company, clients, host agencies and much more. Maintain a spirit of gratitude, and watch how your connections will bloom!

As we approach 2024, now is the time to set yourself up for a successful year. By avoiding the mistakes mentioned above, you'll be able to give your business, clients, and yourself the love and attention necessary for growth, development, and prosperity. The new year is right around the corner, so get ready to shine! Happy Holidays and best wishes for a prosperous 2024!

by Terika L. Haynes | Travel Pulse