Several individuals want to tour the globe and it is essential to deal with a competent travel agent. Bradley Schnickel is one of the most qualified experts in the field. He has more than 15 years of experience as a travel agent and has assisted individuals in planning vacations.
How did you get started in this business?
I understood early on that I wanted to become a travel agent. My father was a federal employee, yet I grew up in a small community outside Minneapolis, MN. My dad was sent to several consulates throughout the globe. Consequently, I was also exposed to many civilizations so I have firsthand knowledge of different cultures and I use my experiences to guide others who want to plan their ideal vacation.
How do you make money?
It is based on commissions. When booking a flight or hotel on behalf of a client we receive a portion back from that company. It can vary but we have very good relationships with many different airlines and hotels that allow us to provide amazing experiences for our customers.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
At first, it was difficult to build a client base when starting from scratch. Once people trusted us and shared their experiences with family, friends and colleagues, the business has grown and we have been profitable for the past few years now.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
I did have doubts, and even when Covid hit and we were still a fairly new business I started to share places that people could visit during the pandemic. It took time, research and reaching out to contacts I had around the world to see how I could get people to different destinations as well as advising them what to expect when they got there. Traveling safely during that time was of utmost importance and so making sure that my clients knew how to protect themselves was of great value.
How did you get your first customer?
My first customer was actually my neighbor who knew I worked for a travel agency and asked me to help plan a trip to Italy for him and his wife. I then shared that I had started my own company and would be happy to have him as my first client. Since my neighbor is retired and enjoys traveling I have had a consistent client for many years now. He also helps grow my company too by sharing my information with his friends and family.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
I have used ads in a local flyer to grow my business and even though it is break even at this point my hopes are that over time I will receive repeat customers and that’ll continue to help grow my business.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
I am not very savvy when it comes to social media and I have had a difficult time finding someone to help me grow in this space. Trying different platforms and getting help from others through Fiverr has been helpful but it has been through trial and error to find the right blend of knowing what’s the right amount.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
My experiences traveling the world. I do a lot of research on behalf of my clients and therefore am able to plan a dream vacation on any budget. I do my best to communicate clearly and try to answer questions as quickly as possible as that’s what I appreciate most when I am working with a business and I have questions.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
Seeing pictures people will share with me. It’s fun to hear the stories and also receive positive feedback when a client visits a destination and I’m able to share with them a place I’ve been and they have a great experience as well!
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
We continue to grow and are close to the point of adding additional staff to handle the workload. It would be nice to be able to delegate tasks more so that I can use my talents elsewhere. I also look forward to traveling more so that I can get to new destinations and learn about new places that people would enjoy visiting.
What business books have inspired you?
Good to great is outstanding for anyone beginning a business. I’m not an avid reader but as far as people in the know, following Kyle Potter from Thrifty Traveler is a must!
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Keep with it and have the courage to do it on your own. It can be scary starting a new business but also so rewarding once things get rolling.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?
At this time I do not have the capacity to mentor, but would be happy to answer questions to oceanbeachtravel1@outlook.com