InteleTravel has made a significant appeal to the travel industry, urging action against unsatisfactory agent behaviour. This comes amidst revelations of certain agents exploiting the system for personal gain.
The organisation has emphasised the importance of maintaining a professional environment, ensuring all agents adhere to established industry standards.
Concerns Over Agent Conduct
In a recent call for accountability, InteleTravel has urged the travel sector to report any instances of “disappointing” or inappropriate behaviour by its agents. Such actions include the revealing of commission levels and the promotion of personal agent-rate deals on social media platforms. The move underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining a standard of professionalism within the industry.
Tricia Handley-Hughes, UK managing director of InteleTravel, highlighted these concerns at a recent conference, emphasising the need for vigilance. “The majority of agents do want to follow the rules,” she stated, “but we have a small minority who pose challenges by deviating from established protocols.”
Revision of Recruitment Messaging
In response to criticisms of its recruitment strategy, InteleTravel is reviewing the messaging issued by its recruitment partner, PlanNet Marketing. The company acknowledges the importance of ensuring that recruitment communications align with the agency’s standards and principles.
Historically, InteleTravel reviewed its recruitment messages two years ago, yet recent issues have prompted a renewed focus on strategic oversight and correction. Handley-Hughes remarked that only in the past few months have these issues become significant, necessitating a careful reevaluation.
Collaboration with Other Agencies
Despite facing critiques from more established agencies, InteleTravel champions greater collaboration within the homeworking business sector. The company believes in the potential benefits of enhanced communication and learning between diverse business models.
Handley-Hughes advocates for an annual meeting to foster these interactions, suggesting it would facilitate better understanding and respect among agencies. This approach focuses on listening, mutual respect, and kindness, as well as an appreciation for differing business models and trends.
Expansion in the UK Market
Since its entry into the UK market in 2018, InteleTravel has expanded its network significantly. Now boasting over 20,000 agents across the UK and Ireland, the company has experienced substantial growth and increased market penetration.
This expansion reflects a shift in the industry’s landscape, where hybrid roles blending traditional and modern travel consultancy have gained traction. InteleTravel’s model, offering both supplementary and full-time opportunities, caters to a varied demographic of agents.
Addressing Criticism from Competitors
InteleTravel’s business model has drawn criticism from established companies like Travel Counsellors and Designer Travel. Some critiques focus on agents viewing the role as a side income rather than a primary career, a perspective not shared by all within the industry.
Handley-Hughes counters this by pointing out the diversity within InteleTravel’s ranks. Many agents have transitioned to building full-time businesses, illustrating the model’s flexibility and its ability to support diverse career goals.
Responding to the potential for collaboration with competitors, Handley-Hughes maintained that such opportunities should remain open, allowing for inclusive dialogue and shared growth within the sector.
Future Prospects and Industry Impact
Looking ahead, InteleTravel remains committed to refining its operations and enhancing its influence in the travel industry. The company’s adaptable business model and proactive approach to agent conduct and recruitment strategies position it well for future growth.
InteleTravel’s initiatives reflect broader trends within the industry, where there is a growing movement towards transparency and ethical practices. The adoption of these principles is likely to enhance reputation and trust among both clients and peers.
Call to Action for Industry Standards
InteleTravel’s leadership urges the travel community to adhere to industry standards and foster an environment of integrity and trust. This call to action is integral to ensuring that business operations are conducted ethically and transparently.
InteleTravel’s call for vigilance and review signifies a positive step towards upholding industry integrity. By fostering collaboration and transparency, the industry can expect enhanced trust and professionalism.
The travel sector is encouraged to adopt similar measures, ensuring long-term sustainability and ethical business practices.
