%2Fallyh%2F%24FILE%2Fallyh.jpg&w=256&q=75 "Ally Haviland")
I had been warned of the steep learning curve during the interview process, and once I got going in the role, I realised these words were not to be under-estimated. I’d never know which exciting worldwide destination I’d be discussing from one minute to the next. Working with multiple systems simultaneously, I needed to create complex bespoke itineraries all the while keeping the client engaged. The ultimate focus was clear - deliver the consistent, 5* levels of service that we are famous for.
The travel consultant role is fast paced, challenging and comes with high expectations (we don’t win award after award for nothing!). It is also one of the most fun, rewarding and exhilarating roles I’ve ever had working with like-minded colleagues.
Becoming a Trailfinders travel consultant was the best decision I’ve ever made. It’s pushed me in ways I never knew were possible and helped me grow in ways I never thought I was capable of. After a couple of years, I saw an opportunity to apply for a role within the Training & Development team which is where I still am today. I get to help others learn, develop and make a success of the travel consultant role, and I absolutely love my job.
With travel booming, we’re on the lookout up and down the country for candidates to join us.
So, Why Trailfinders?
This is very easy to answer. We’re the best!
You’ll be working for a multi-award winning company, who are continually rated as one of the best travel companies by our clients and employees alike on Trustpilot and Glassdoor.
With a fantastic training programme, frequent coaching sessions from your local management team and clear progression structures in place, you will feel supported throughout your Trailfinders career.
Oh, and let’s not forget about the jaw-dropping travel opportunities and offers you will have access to (more on this below).
What does a day in the life of a Trailfinders travel consultant look like?
Being a Trailfinders travel consultant means no two days are the same. While your daily tasks and processes will remain consistent, such as being available to take calls and staying on top of your daily admin, every conversation you have will be unique.
One moment you’ll be constructing a 2 week fly drive around Western Canada, and the next you’ll be planning a 6 week private tour around India. This keeps every day interesting, surprising and varied!
Can I choose the location I’d like to work?
Where we can, we try to accommodate individual preferences. With over 40 travel centres across UK & Ireland, there is plenty of opportunity. Should your preferred location not be available we will discuss possible alternatives with you. Once at TF, the opportunities to move between locations are plentiful.
What training is provided?
This is where I come in!
When you join us, you begin in the classroom at Head Office in Kensington, London. This is a 5 week rigorous induction training course where we teach you our systems, destinations and how to best structure a conversation with your client.
Once in the travel centre, your training doesn’t stop there. We have a well-structured Continued Learning Support programme in place, which is made up of modules, self-reflection exercises and regular meetings with your local management team.
We then bring you back to Head Office for another week of Advanced Training. This is a great opportunity to swap stories with your training group, refocus your goals and learn more complex concepts, systems and product now you’ve got some context.
Throughout your career you will continue to receive training on destinations, procedures and product. The travel industry is constantly evolving and expanding, every day’s a school day!
What travel perks come with the job?
Let's face it, this is why we all work in travel right?
Our reputation is built on our first-hand knowledge and travel experience and so we are committed to ensuring our consultants are able to continue to travel as much as possible after joining us.
We have a dedicated staff travel department whose job it is to source us incredible rates and discounts, including free nights at luxury hotels around the world.
I’ve certainly had my fair share of once in a lifetime holidays since working here! Private touring in Sri Lanka, visiting the orangutans in Indonesia, road tripping through California or staying in a luxury overwater villa in the Maldives are just a few that come to mind.
We also host and take part in various educational and familiarisation trips, hosted by hotels and suppliers all around the world to further enhance your destination and product knowledge.
What other benefits can I look forward to?
There are a range of extra discretionary benefits offered when working for Trailfinders such as daily lunch, annual travel insurance, eyecare vouchers, season ticket loans, supplier functions and subsidised Summer and Christmas parties.
What are the working hours?
For the convenience of our clients we are open every day, with a range of opening hours depending on the day of the week.
A travel consultant will typically work a 9 hour day, with shift times of 9am-6pm or 10am-7pm. Your roster will include weekend shifts, with midweek days off. Every few months your travel centre may be rostered to include 8am-5pm or 11am-8pm shifts.
You will often work longer than your shift if you are still dealing with a client so we work on a clock in/clock out basis. This ensures you are paid for every minute that you work.
Buckle up, for your first few months as you get to grips with everything you’re going to be tired!
Are there any opportunities for working from home?
The short answer is no. We want to always be there for our clients, and to do that we need to be present in the travel centres. To keep things consistent company-wide, all our non-sales departments are always in the office too.
We’re a pretty sociable bunch here at Trailfinders, so it suits us well to be around each other for help, support and going for that well-deserved drink after work!
What are the long-term career opportunities?
Being a very home-grown company, one of our strengths is the fact that everybody working at Trailfinders began in the travel consultant role. We believe that a key part of our continued success is down to the hard work and commitment of our consultants so personal development and progression is strongly encouraged.
There are so many avenues to choose from whether it’s working your way up the ranks to a senior consultant level, specialising in First & Business class travel, private touring and cruise, or following a managerial route from Sales Team Leader all the way up to General Manager of your own travel centre.
In addition there are plenty of opportunities to move into non-sales roles in London, like me! You could look at joining teams such as Training & Development, Marketing or Product, as well as many other behind the scenes teams.
Working at Trailfinders brings so much opportunity, enjoyment and reward. I’ll never tell you it’s going to be easy, but I will tell you it’s worth it!
For more information on how to apply, click here.
