Large business
TONI SHARP Toni, based in Warwick, joined Designer Travel in May 2024. It has about 170 homeworkers.
QWhat’s your background? A I was an employment law solicitor for 10 years and started
work in an independent agency just over five years into my career when I had a break. In 2016, I joined a homeworking agency, working full time from 2019. The agency I was with for eight years changed direction, so I joined Designer Travel in 2024.
Q Why homeworking? A I enjoy the freedom of self-employment while feeling part of a team.
QWhat drew you to Designer Travel? A I spoke to people in the industry and their love for Designer
Travel was evident. The company’s reputation is incredibly positive. I had a conversation with [managing director] Amanda Matthews and she was warm, candid and approachable: I was sold! Its costs and commission splits are fair, the opportunities are amazing, and I love how honest and open the management are.
QHow has the size of the company worked for you? A It’s a perfect fit. Designer Travel organises events year-round
– conferences, local chit-chat sessions, fams and reward trips – and we have active social groups and Zoom calls. I couldn’t ask for more support, training or travel opportunities. I feel part of a team more than ever before. I can pick up the phone to any of the management; it’s hands-on. I’m not sure I’d get that with a very large agency. Before, I didn’t use my name for business; now, I’m ‘Designer Travel by Toni Sharp’. Being linked to a successful company gives customers more confidence to book.
Q How has it been since you started? A I had a day’s induction, which felt quite intense, and then weekly
support calls and further training until I was comfortable with everything. I like that help was available at any time. I booked my first holiday 10 days after joining and now average three bookings a week.
Q What new skills have you learnt? A I took a course on sustainability, subsidised by Designer Travel,
and have joined its working party on sustainability. We have ‘success swaps’ to share tips between homeworkers and management; I learn something from each one. I’m constantly learning new skills.
8 JULY 2025
I couldn’t ask for more support. I feel part of a team more than ever before. I can pick up the phone to any of the management
QUICKFIRE Q&A
Best sale? A 13-day multi-centre to New York, Orlando and the Gold Coast for a family this summer for just over £30,000. Proudest moment? Achieving ‘Diamond’ level in my first year.
Best trip since joining Designer Travel? Brazil, not long after I joined the group.
Best thing about your job? The freedom and being responsible for the successes.
Top tip for new homeworkers? Think about why you want to do it – being self-employed has its challenges. Consider your ideal working environment and research homeworking agencies, then go with your gut.
travelweekly.co.uk
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