Homeworking offers a flexible, dynamic lifestyle for travel agents, allowing them to balance personal and professional commitments. What does a typical day look like for these dedicated professionals? We explore two daily routines to gain insight into their effective work strategies.
Min Harike joined Travel-PA in July 2023, marking a significant career shift. Previously a freelance make-up artist, she realised her potential in booking honeymoons for clients.
Travel-PA’s managing director had high hopes, and Min delivered. She achieved approximately £200,000 in sales within her first year.
Mondays serve as her rest period, especially after busy weekends with bridal make-up jobs. Tuesday, dubbed ‘Travel Tuesday,’ is dedicated to managing travel inquiries and client itineraries.
Afternoons include casual meet-ups with friends and travel admin. Balancing her time between makeup and travel inquiries allows her to handle both businesses effectively.
Initially, she expected a split of 30% travel and 70% makeup. However, the balance shifted to 50-50, demonstrating the complementary nature of both professions.
Evenings often involve working late, especially on complex travel plans. Min tries to stop by 6pm to spend time with her husband, later resuming work around 8pm.
Her travel business, which she affectionately calls ‘her baby,’ grew from her desire to shift focus after a challenging fertility journey. It has become an essential part of her life.
Min’s resilience is evident. She juggled multiple roles and still managed one of her most significant achievements—a £65,000 corporate booking to Las Vegas. This success came even before she completed her training, showcasing her innate talent and dedication.
Homeworking in the travel industry exemplifies a balance between personal passion and professional acumen. Clare Collins-Doyle and Min Harike’s stories highlight the flexibility and rewarding nature of this career path. These professionals successfully integrate their diverse skills and interests, making significant strides in their respective fields.
