What’s it like to be a homeworker?


How does homeworking suit agents? Juliet Dennis finds out


DEB FINDLER PERSONAL TRAVEL CONSULTANT, HAYS TRAVEL


Q What’s your background? A I’ve always worked in sales roles directly with the public. I’m a


people person and love the customer-facing environment. I previously worked as a regional sales manager, which gave me the right attributes to be a PTC. My husband and I owned a hotel in the UK and have both worked in hospitality and retail. I joined Hays in October 2022. Looking back, this was always going to be my forte, as many moons ago, I was lucky enough to do work experience in a travel agency.


Q Why did your daughter join the business? A Beth joined me in March 2023. She was looking to leave her job


and wanted a career change, so it fell at a perfect time. She had a passion for travel and was always the one on the laptop looking for our family holidays. Being younger, Beth was the perfect person to help me on the social media side of things. I found it a struggle creating sharp, snappy posts. It seemed right for her to do it, as she has grown up with technology and social media. Having us both on board has really boosted the business.


Q What was the first year like? A After my training, I doubted this was the role for me, as there was


so much to learn. The first year was a complete whirlwind – trying to build a database and attract the right market was a challenge. But we found our niche and ran with it. We took each day at a time, and we’ve gone from strength to strength. It hasn’t been an easy ride, but we can now say this is not just a job, it’s our passion!


Q What’s it like working with a family member? A For us, it’s a dream. We’re strong in different areas of the business;


we couldn’t do it without each other. I can’t say there are never fall-outs, but you get that in any business. This past year, it has been


20 JULY 2024


We took each day at a time, and we’ve gone from strength to strength


a struggle getting a routine in place, as there are no set hours for homeworking, but now we are both on the same page, it works amazingly well. We work in the same room and live in the same house, so we’re with each other 24/7. If anything, it has brought us closer. If I was to give any advice for going into business with a family member, it would be make sure you have a strong relationship and don’t clash. You have to be able to communicate and make decisions together.


travelweekly.co.uk


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