Jon Berridge, a former secondary school teacher, has successfully transitioned to a Personal Travel Consultant role at Hays Travel, experiencing remarkable business growth within weeks.
Mr. Berridge, who embarked on his new career on June 17, reported a surge in enquiries and bookings, highlighting the effectiveness of Hays Travel’s training programme.
Rapid Transition and Early Success
Jon Berridge, formerly an assistant vice-principal, began his career with Hays Travel on June 17 and achieved his first booking by June 30. “I am amazed at how busy and successful I have been,” he stated at the end of his first full month, illustrating the rapid success afforded by his new role.
Mr. Berridge initially intended to balance his new business with supply teaching. However, the demand for his services rendered this unnecessary. “Although I registered with a supply agency, I have been too busy with enquiries and bookings. It has gone crazy,” he added, emphasising the unexpected but welcome workload.
A Shift for Work-Life Balance
Mr. Berridge dedicated over 20 years to teaching but found the career’s demands detrimental to his mental health. “I couldn’t switch off from work,” he mentioned, “and it was having a negative impact on my mental health. Something had to change.” His decision to switch careers was driven by a need for better work-life balance.
After contemplating the change for several months, Mr. Berridge took a leap of faith and committed to the new role. “After several months of thinking about it and worrying about taking a risk,” he explained, “I decided to just go for it.”
Choosing Hays Travel
In his extensive research, Mr. Berridge evaluated various agency groups and franchises before selecting Hays Travel. He was drawn to its renowned reputation and familial atmosphere.
“It is a bit of a cliché,” Berridge noted, “but it’s almost like a family, and I haven’t met anyone who isn’t welcoming.” This supportive environment played a pivotal role in his decision.
Comprehensive Training Programme
Hays Travel’s three-week training programme, although intense, was instrumental in Mr. Berridge’s rapid success. He praised the interactive and supportive training environment. “The trainer was brilliant, the training was interactive, and there was plenty of time to ask questions in a very relaxed and non-judgmental or pressurised environment,” he recounted.
The structured training provided Mr. Berridge with the necessary skills and confidence to excel in his new role quickly. His early success is a testament to the programme’s effectiveness.
Expert Support and Guidance
Tanya Cooper, head of Personal Travel Consultants at Hays Travel, highlighted the success stories emerging from their New to Travel Academy. “Jon’s sales catapulted within six weeks of joining us from teaching, and he is already delivering numbers that match some of our top performers,” she remarked.
Ms. Cooper explained that the academy attracts individuals from diverse sectors, including retail, beauty, and nursing, emphasising that a passion for travel and people skills are crucial for success in the industry.
Academy members receive a two or three-week virtual induction training programme, supported by Academy Business Development Coaches. These coaches offer assistance throughout the 12-month training period, providing essential guidance and support, including administrative help and holiday cover if necessary.
A Diverse Range of Backgrounds
Ms. Cooper further elaborated on the diverse backgrounds of academy members, noting that success in travel consultancy can stem from various sectors. “People join our New to Travel Academy from many different sectors,” she said, listing industries such as retail, high street butchers, and nursing, amongst others.
Those joining from other sales industries often bring a pipeline of potential customers built through their social media accounts. This pre-existing network can significantly aid their transition into the travel industry.
“People who get on well with people do well in travel,” Ms. Cooper emphasised, “and those willing, like Jon, to put in the work, can very quickly be running a successful business.”
Future Prospects
Jon Berridge’s remarkable transition from teaching to thriving travel consultancy exemplifies how skills from one profession can be effectively transferred to another sector. His experience underscores the potential for substantial career changes at any stage of professional life.
With ongoing support from Hays Travel and his commitment to the business, Mr. Berridge is poised for continued success and growth in his new career path.
Jon Berridge’s transition to a Personal Travel Consultant demonstrates the impact of comprehensive training and a supportive environment. His success story is a testament to the potential within the travel consultancy industry.
With a strong foundation laid by Hays Travel’s New to Travel Academy, Mr. Berridge is expected to continue thriving, serving as an inspiration to others considering a career change.
