The Advantage Travel Partnership is making strides in its commitment to professional development, offering more extensive training services than ever before. This initiative is designed to empower frontline agents, new starters, and mentors. The aim is not just skill enhancement but also fostering industry leadership among members.
By offering courses tailored for various roles, Advantage seeks to address diverse learning needs, ensuring that all members are well-equipped to face market challenges. Interactive sessions scheduled for later this year further demonstrate this commitment to comprehensive skill-building.
Expanding Education for Frontline Staff
The Advantage Travel Partnership is intensifying its focus on training and development for its members. In a move to enhance the skills of frontline travel consultants, a dedicated ‘Frontliners’ course is set to launch in June. This course aims to equip sales staff with comprehensive knowledge of Advantage’s diverse portfolio of products and services. Such initiatives reflect the company’s commitment to not only developing talent but also to maintaining a competitive advantage.
Engagement for Newcomers and Returnees
Advantage has recognised the need to support individuals new to the travel industry or those returning after a hiatus. Through its new training programme, the company seeks to cater to these demographics by providing a solid foundation in travel consultancy. This initiative is expected to bolster the confidence and capability of participants, equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in the demanding travel market.
Delivered by Advantage’s partner, AS Training, the programme is accessible to members across the UK. By integrating practical insights and expert guidance, the training benefits those in the early stages of their travel careers or seeking a refresher.
Coaching for Business Owners and Managers
A significant addition to the development offerings is the comprehensive mentoring and executive coaching programme, designed for business owners and travel managers.
This initiative aims to foster a network of peer-to-peer support, providing business leaders with the opportunity to work closely with experienced mentors. The executive coaching programme facilitates personalised growth and development strategies for owners, helping them to identify strengths, address challenges, and harness opportunities. Such personalised coaching is essential for those looking to refine their business acumen and achieve specific business objectives.
Kelly Cookes, chief commercial officer, noted: “The executive coaching programme will allow business owners to work alongside an executive coach on a one-to-one basis, to help develop their business in the way that helps an owner achieve their goals and ensure that their business is working for them.”
Preparation for Peak Performance
In anticipation of the busy peaks selling season, Advantage is set to unveil the ‘Peak Performers’ training in November and December. This initiative is focused on enhancing sales and customer service skills, equipping members to effectively meet the demands of peak periods.
The interactive sessions are designed to foster a deep understanding of key Advantage suppliers, thereby strengthening supplier relationships and enhancing the overall customer experience.
Investing in Development Teams
Over the past 18 months, Advantage has significantly invested in its business development infrastructure, leading to the creation of an extensive training proposition. This has enabled a thorough assessment of training needs among members.
By identifying specific areas of improvement, the initiative ensures that training programmes are closely aligned with the needs of Advantage’s diverse membership base, driving tangible business outcomes.
Kelly Cookes added, “Through investing significantly in our business development team over the past 18 months, we have been able to assess what training needs there are among our membership and develop a robust proposition that meets their needs.”
Strategic Partnerships and Future Prospects
Advantage Travel has announced partnerships to further strengthen its training initiatives, reflecting a broader strategic outlook. These partnerships aim to integrate technological advancements to enhance learning experiences.
With a focus on continuous improvement, Advantage is committed to adapting its offerings to meet the evolving demands of the travel industry, demonstrating a proactive approach to member support.
Conclusion Thoughts on Innovation and Growth
The recent efforts by Advantage Travel Partnership in enhancing training and development initiatives underscore a strategic commitment to professional growth and industry leadership.
Advantage Travel’s extensive training and development efforts illustrate its dedication to nurturing talent and maintaining industry leadership. These initiatives not only serve immediate training needs but also lay the groundwork for sustained professional growth. The strategic approach ensures members are well-prepared for both current challenges and future opportunities.
