A world traveler above all else, Stuart Lyall’s professional life has been consistently guided by his desire to seek inspiration in new surroundings. As a result, Mr. Lyall’s entrepreneurial efforts have focused primarily on the many different facets of travel, with his current work involving the airline industry. This new venture has allowed Mr. Lyall to devote a great deal of attention to planning travel adventures for others who share in the unbridled joy of journeying to an unseen locale or to a particularly beloved destination.
Mr. Lyall’s upbringing in Australia played a significant role in his decision to pursue professional opportunities that would enable him to frequently travel, as a sense of adventure and discovery was instilled in him at a very early age. His family traveled abroad with relative frequency, and Mr. Lyall became absorbed in the study of foreign cultures, world history and geography in general. Knowing that many careers might limit his opportunities for in-depth exploration of new locations, Mr. Lyall made a conscious choice to only work in professional settings in which his passion for travel would not be stifled in the least bit.
With many years of travel industry experience, Mr. Lyall’s most recent venture involving the airline industry has been an unqualified success. Implemented according to his specific vision, Mr. Lyall’s work has been of great benefit to many others and has allowed him to share his passion for travel with many other like-minded people.
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?
The inspiration had everything to do with my own desire to travel the world, so I got started in this business with the goal of continuing to travel while also helping others do the same.
How do you make money?
It varies quite a bit depending on the service and my level of involvement with the various aspects of planning, but we have set rates we charge to those who make use of our services.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
I actually started out with no intention of seeking a profit, but over time I realized that there was some real potential in what I was doing. Once I shifted my focus to generating a profit, it was not very long at all since the infrastructure was already in place.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
There was a period in which I thought I was a bit deluded to think I could earn a living doing something I love so dearly, but I also know how important it is to pursue the things you are most passionate about.
How did you get your first customer?
On an international flight, by complete accident. I had been chatting with some of the folks in the area where I was seated, and after telling a few travel stories one couple asked if I would be willing to plan a trip for them.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
We simply try to focus on marketing the destination above all else.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
We have been considering whether or not it is time to expand, but I felt it better to focus on quality for the time being. It was a difficult decision because we are certainly in a position to expand, yet I also know that there would be greater time demands and other responsibilities as well.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
I know exactly what I want out of my work and have worked very hard to never lose sight of that.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
Every time I travel, I am reminded of my main motivation in this industry, so I find it quite satisfying that I have the time for adventure and exploration because of this business venture.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
There will certainly be more travel and hopefully many more exciting adventures.
What business books have inspired you?
“The Geography of Bliss,” by Eric Weiner.
How do you stay motivated?
I remember how fortunate I am to have had the foresight to seek a career that would allow me to travel as much as I do now. Since I want to continue to make the most of this opportunity, I am motivated do all that is within my power to ensure a new adventure is always right around the corner.