Discipline and self-motivation are key
Andrea: I believe a background in travel sales is incredibly beneficial. I started homeworking quite young, but I already had several years of high street experience, which made a huge difference and gave me a solid foundation to build on.
QHow do I know which is the right company for me? Dan: Every company has different systems and ways of doing things.
Do your research on monthly fees, commission splits, card processing charges and whether it has a great support team. Pick a reputable company and take the plunge, but don’t be afraid to move on if it isn’t
working for you. Sinead: It’s all about support, culture and values. You want somewhere that offers strong training, accessible help and aligns with the type of business you want to build. Look at the commission structure, marketing support and whether they encourage you to build
your own personal brand – that’s so important in today’s industry. Samantha: For me, I wanted a well-known company. I knew a few people who were homeworkers at Hays Travel. They said they were really good, with help and support always available, which was
important for me. Andrea: Think about the type of environment you’ll feel most comfortable and supported in. A large, well-known company isn’t always right for everyone. I prefer the feel of a smaller team, whereas others thrive in larger organisations. It’s similar to buying a house – you’ll know when you’ve found the one that feels right.
QWhat are the biggest challenges? Dan: Working out where you’re going to get your clients from. Come
up with a plan to grow your business outside of friends, family and the local community. It can become quite isolating, so make sure you
have a good social network. Sinead: Switching off! I technically work seven days a week and when you work from home, it can be tempting to answer messages at all hours. Setting boundaries is important.
travelweekly.co.uk
Samantha: Standing out from everyone else and giving customers a reason to put their trust in you. There are a lot of competitors out there
trying to beat your price. Andrea: Being taken seriously. I’m still occasionally asked if I’m “still doing my travel thing”, as if it’s just a hobby. Be proud of what you do. Just because you work from home doesn’t make your business any less credible or successful.
QWhat’s your favourite thing about being a homeworker? Dan: The flexibility. I can go to the gym when I want, do some shopping, play cricket on the weekends, take the kids for an ice cream
and still fit in my work around that. Sinead:Without a doubt, the flexibility and freedom. I wanted a career where I could be present for my children and all the important moments.
When the opportunity arose at InteleTravel, I instantly knew it was for me. Samantha: The flexibility, because I can do more things than in my previous 9 to 5 job, plus the friendships I’ve made and the opportunities
to see more places. Andrea: The flexibility and being my own boss. I could be there for my son’s sports days and school assemblies, while still running a successful business. I value that balance enormously.
QWhat’s your one golden nugget of advice? Dan: I read a quote this week: “You’re only one leap of faith away from
changing your life.” Just jump in and go for it! Sinead: Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. Social media can make it look like everyone succeeds overnight, but building
a successful travel business takes time, consistency and confidence. Samantha: Be yourself and make sure you show customers your personality and knowledge. Customers like to know they’re speaking to
someone who knows what they’re talking about. Andrea: Don’t try to learn everything at once. Build your confidence and expertise in something you’re genuinely interested in and expand your knowledge over time. O
JULY 2026 7
PICTURE: Shutterstock/fizkes
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