Hays Travel has demonstrated its commitment to excellence by rewarding its top 15 cruise agents with an exclusive all-inclusive trip to the US. This initiative reflects the company’s dedication to recognising exceptional performance.
The trip included stops in New York, the Bahamas, and Florida, providing agents with invaluable experiences and fostering professional development. This journey not only celebrated their achievements but also aimed at enhancing their skills as part of the Hays Travel team.
Incentive for Excellence
Hays Travel’s initiative to reward excellence among its cruise agents underscores their commitment to recognising and nurturing talent within the company. The top 15 cruise selling agents were selected for an all-inclusive trip to the US, highlighting their exceptional contributions. This initiative aimed not only to reward high performance but also to encourage continued dedication and success. By setting a clear benchmark for recognition, Hays Travel fosters a competitive yet supportive work environment.
The award winners embarked on a carefully planned journey, aimed at enriching their professional and personal experiences. Leading the initiative, Tanya Cooper, Head of Hays Travel’s homeworking division, emphasised the importance of celebrating the achievements of their personal travel consultants and Explorer agents. This gesture serves as a motivation for others to aspire towards excellence.
A Memorable Journey Across the US
The group’s adventure began with a flight from Heathrow to New York with Virgin Atlantic. They experienced the iconic skyline of Manhattan, setting the tone for an incredible journey ahead. The agents had the unique opportunity to set sail on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas from Manhattan Harbour — a truly awe-inspiring experience that combined luxury with adventure.
This cruise to the Bahamas, Florida, and the exclusive Coco Cay was more than just a reward. It was a platform for Hays Travel’s agents to expand their knowledge and experience key travel destinations first-hand. Such exposure is invaluable in enhancing their ability to sell cruise packages effectively.
As the sun set, the group enjoyed a scenic sail from the Manhattan Harbour. Tanya Cooper reflected, “It was just as perfect as I imagined… the ultimate sundowner moment.” This marked the beginning of a memorable journey that left an indelible mark on each participant.
Exploring the Sunshine State and Beyond
The next segment of the journey led the agents to Florida, where they visited Cape Canaveral. This stop offered a blend of educational and recreational opportunities, providing insights into one of America’s most famous space-related locations.
The trip then continued to Coco Cay, Royal Caribbean’s private island. Here, Hays Travel’s team experienced a “Perfect Day” filled with relaxation and exploration, showcasing the idyllic offerings of this exclusive destination. Such experiences are crucial for agents to personalise and enhance their customer recommendations.
In Florida, the team engaged with local attractions, fortifying their understanding of the region’s tourism landscape. These excursions not only broadened the personal insight of the agents but also equipped them with first-hand experiences to share with potential clients.
Enrichment and Team Building
A significant highlight was the visit to Sandals’ Royal Bahamian all-inclusive resort on the fifth day. Agents immersed themselves in the luxurious settings, gaining deeper insights into the amenities and services offered by high-end hospitality brands. Personal travel consultant Catherine Nathwani expressed her gratitude, noting that the experience allowed her to enhance her knowledge significantly.
Team building was a central aspect of the trip. Opportunities to network and build relationships with colleagues across the division were plentiful. Strengthened bonds and shared experiences were fostered, which are invaluable in fostering collaboration and team spirit.
The return journey to New York was complemented with a visit to the newly opened Virgin Hotel. Here, agents explored Virgin’s unique approach to hospitality, rounding off a trip filled with experiential learning and professional growth.
Driving Future Success
Hays Travel’s initiative aligns with its strategic priorities to remain at the forefront of the travel industry by investing in its people. By empowering agents through such experiences, the company reaffirms its commitment to professional development and high standards.
The impact of this trip is expected to resonate beyond the immediate experience. As agents return equipped with new insights and connections, the potential for increased client engagement and sales effectiveness is substantial.
Catherine Nathwani encapsulated the sentiment, stating, “I’ve come away with so much more knowledge on Virgin Atlantic, Royal Caribbean and Virgin Hotels.” This knowledge exchange is essential for personal growth and client satisfaction.
Reflections and Learnings
Reflecting on the trip, it is clear that the initiative was more than a mere incentive. Hays Travel provided a holistic development opportunity, blending leisure, learning, and networking.
Such initiatives highlight the evolving strategies in the travel industry to enhance employee satisfaction and client service. Recognising and rewarding top performers remains key in sustaining business growth.
The positive feedback from participants highlights the importance of these experiences in fostering a motivated and informed workforce.
Conclusion
The US trip initiative by Hays Travel significantly underscored the value of recognising and nurturing talent. By investing in their top-performing agents, Hays Travel strengthens its position as a leader in the travel industry and fosters a culture of excellence and growth.
Hays Travel’s reward initiative not only celebrated its agents’ achievements but also provided a platform for professional enrichment. By investing in their agents, Hays Travel ensures a culture of growth and excellence, paving the way for continued success.
