Beci Mahnken. (Source: Beci Mahnken)
Travel Advisor Success Stories focus on veteran advisors and how they achieved success. Here’s a look at Beci Mahnken, president and CEO of MEI Travel, and a member of Signature Travel Network.
How did you get your start as a travel advisor?
My passion for travel began in childhood, with my first airplane trip at age seven when my father took me to Disneyland. That experience opened my eyes to the joy of family travel, where we could connect, explore and leave the everyday world behind. Throughout my childhood, my father inspired a deep sense of wanderlust, encouraging me to learn about destinations worldwide.
Years later, while working in customer management in the software industry, I took my first cruise. Unfortunately, the travel advisor I booked with did not fully understand our preferences, recommending a ship that didn’t align with our needs and failed to inform us about passport requirements until the last minute.
That experience showed me the importance of truly understanding clients’ needs, and I realized that I could bring a better level of service to travel planning. I dedicated myself to learning the industry inside and out, and now, 25 years later, I still wake up excited to help others discover the world, one vacation at a time.
How did you build your business over the years?
Initially, I chose to focus on my personal passions, specializing in cruising and Disney destinations. As the Internet was emerging, I leveraged this new medium to reach a broader audience. I collaborated with online travel communities to offer their readers a trusted resource. This approach required significant relationship-building and patience, but it has been incredibly rewarding to establish these connections and become part of a community of like-minded travelers.
As my business expanded, I saw others eager to turn their passion for travel into a successful career. In response, I focused on creating a comprehensive training program to guide them in building their own profitable businesses, drawing on the same principles and strategies that shaped my journey.
What characteristics make an advisor successful?
Relationships are key in this industry. A great advisor builds trust by really listening, being empathetic and keeping communication clear and straightforward. They pay close attention to details, remembering personal specifics and picking up on changes in needs, so clients feel genuinely valued. Consistency and reliability are key – they follow through and stay adaptable, ready to handle whatever comes up. By staying on top of best practices, they can give clients relevant advice that builds strong, lasting relationships.
What have been your greatest challenges been?
Over my 25 years in the travel industry, I have faced many challenges, but none as significant as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. With travel coming to a near halt, sustaining the business was particularly daunting, as revenue typically depends on clients actively traveling.
Keeping the team motivated and focused during such a time of uncertainty required a tremendous amount of resilience and determination. Surviving this period was possible only through the unwavering support of industry peers, supplier partnerships and our consortium network. This collective effort, combined with a commitment to persevere and adapt, allowed us not only to weather the storm but to emerge stronger and better prepared for the future.
What have your greatest accomplishments been?
Over the years, I have had the privilege of training over 500 individuals, helping them turn their passion for travel into a profitable business that they can run on their own terms. While some have realized that the travel industry wasn’t the right fit for them, many others have thrived, achieving success and growing their businesses.
I’ve seen firsthand how the right guidance, paired with dedication and hard work, can empower individuals to carve out their own paths in this rewarding field. Whether it’s through personalized training, strategic advice or ongoing mentorship, I take great pride in seeing others flourish, building businesses that align with their passions and lifestyles. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to witness these journeys and to know that I played a part in helping them succeed.
What tips can you provide advisors new to the industry?
For new travel advisors, it’s important to build a solid foundation. Focus on building strong relationships with clients by listening to their needs and choosing a niche you’re passionate about. Have a marketing plan ready to help attract new clients, whether through social media, email or referrals. Do your due diligence to find the right host agency – there are many different models out there, so take the time to interview several and find the best fit for your needs. Stay updated on industry changes and use tech to keep things organized. Success takes time, so be patient, stay committed, and learn from your experiences. With the right strategy, partnerships and persistence, you’ll build a rewarding career.
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