Outside Agents

I’ve believed Outside Agents was a host agency I would recommend to anyone wanting a host they could depend on to be honest, supportive, and act with integrity. I still believe they are honest and supportive to an extent. What concerns me of late is the amount of staff they have to support the number of new agents they brought into the fold. It appears they have grown from approximately 5,000 agents in January 2023 to over 8,700 (July 2023). New agents are provided the tools to learn the trade, but several do not appear to take advantage of the training and resources available. I believe it is a host agency's responsibility to ensure the ICs using the host's credentials to book trips for their clients meet a minimum training requirement. Enforcing minimum training before handling someone's hard-earned money to book their vacation is in everyone's best interest. Without some level of proficiency and knowledge of the industry is harmful to our industry. Harmful to our vendors/suppliers (who struggle to educate/train new travel advisors which clogs up the phone lines), to the reputation of travel agents, and especially to the people using an untrained TA who doesn't know what is necessary to book a trip or qualify a client. I no longer follow our FB Group as it is full of TAs asking the same questions repeatedly when they could have known the answer had they done the training offered by OA. This floods the FB Group with useless clutter. OA has the tools one needs to succeed; however, they won't require a new agent to do the training. I would advise folks new to the industry to find a smaller agency offering support and training so they get the knowledge they need to succeed.

A couple of months ago, I ran into a sticky situation with a client and his attempts to file an insurance claim with his travel insurance. I needed some advice and direction as to how to handle the situation appropriately. I first called Outside Agents and spoke to Debra in the office who was super helpful and supportive and suggested that I email both Chad and Steve (owners of Outside Agents). I immediately received an email back from Chad, giving some direction and wisdom and above all support. I was so appreciative of the response and felt so supported. I have never once regretted my decision to work with Outside Agents. I love the support, resources, software, training, and knowledge provided both within the staff and the community of other agents. This business isn't easy, but Outside Agents makes it as easy as possible. THANK YOU so much. I'm just sorry it took me a couple of months to get to my review.

I love everything about Outside Agents(OA). The company size makes it ver easy to get to know your support team, the mentoring sessions are invaluable, the training resources from the beginning are top-notch and are frequently updated with the latest information, even other agents go above and beyond with sharing their knowledge. It’s safe to say everyone wants to see you succeed and they are more than willing to play a role in your success if you’ll let them in. I would HIGHLY recommend OA to agents from all backgrounds.

I joined Outside Agents in June of 2020. I had been at another Host Agency and started researching other Host agencies. I decided that Outside Agents was the perfect fit. I am so glad that I made the move! Their training and support is amazing. My business is growing and I am super happy with my transition. Don't hesitate to join. Commissions are paid on a weekly basis and directly deposited to bank account. Incredible staff at Outside Agents. The owners treat you like family and very easy to talk to.
Karen Taatjes/ Magic Travel Genie, LLC

Hello to the all the Outside Agents present, future, soon to be, and or just on the fence of ready to make that move to becoming an Outside Agent. My name is Richard McDonald, I am a new Outside Agent and very proud to be one. When I first thought about becoming an agent I had to do my research, and when I say research I mean real research.
What is an Host Agency going to do for me? What do I really want from my Host Agency? How will it benefit me educational wise verses anything first?, Second what will the support look like? How much is it going to cost me to start? Will my new Host Agency Outside Agents be there for me in the long run? How will my business grow with Outside Agents?
Well, I am going to put to you in short form, Outside Agents has been a God send for me and my wife in the travel agency business. I am currently with Outside Agent as my Host Agency and I will not change a thing. Now, second my wife is with another Host Agency but is not happy. As for me my experience and research of Outside Agents is absolutely been a blessing. Why? first is Chad, the support team and all that they do for every single agent and agency that is a part of Outside Agents.
The Educational training is unmatched, I mean that from deep down. When I first say a invitational video of Chad my mind was made up. Chad has to be one of the most valuable gold nuggets to Outside Agents.
If you are on the fence of joining Outside Agents, well open the gate and come on in because you will not regret one moment. I have not had one problem with Outside Agents since I have been an agent. I want you to know that I have not sold one booking of anything yet, well I'm not mad about it because I am soaking up all the Educational benefits that Outside Agents has for its agents so that when I do get my first customer tears will probably be coming down my face because I'm from the old school I believe in getting the education first and then branching out. So it will make my first sale as if it will be a million bucks if you can understand what I mean.
If you take a look at my profile you will see that I have over 20 educational badges and I am so happy about that. Because Outside Agents did not charge me a dime for what they have taught me and I am very appreciative for all that Outside Agents do for there Agents. I probably can go on and on but I won't take up too much of your time, I hope that I have help or inspired you to take the next step in joining Outside Agents team of fantastic business owners alike. I look forward to seeing you aboard, and thank you for taking the time to read this review.

Outside Agents has been the only HOST Agency I have been associated with. Since I started the business back in 2015, I researched many host agencies before selecting Outside Agents. The reasons were numerous. The people who run Outside Agents make it the perfect host agency. I pay a nominal monthly fee to access a CRM, have my own website, E&O insurance, training both online and in-person, and fair commission to name a few. Their cutting-edge technology, tools, and commission rates surpass those of other host agencies. Their hands-free marketing has boosted my client bookings. Their training resources are consistently accessible and straightforward to follow. The support they provide is second to none.

Having been associated with Outside Agents since 2019, I can confidently say that their unparalleled technology, tools, and commission rates surpass those of any other host agency. What truly sets them apart is their innovative hands-free marketing, which has proven to be a game-changer in boosting my client bookings. The training resources they provide are not only easily accessible but also straightforward to follow, empowering me to work independently with confidence. Additionally, their unwavering support is consistently reliable, ensuring that any assistance I require is promptly and efficiently provided.
What truly impresses me about Outside Agents is their unwavering commitment to upholding high ethical standards. This dedication fills me with an immense sense of pride to be associated with them. It is evident that their integrity and professionalism guide every decision they make, reaffirming their position as a trusted industry leader.
In conclusion, Outside Agents has not only provided me with the tools and support to excel in my travel business but has also exceeded my expectations in every aspect. Their cutting-edge technology, hands-free marketing, accessible training resources, and unwavering commitment to ethics make them a host agency that truly stands out from the rest. I am honored to be affiliated with Outside Agents and look forward to continuing our successful partnership.

When I decided that I wanted to become a travel agent 16 years ago, I did a search for Host Agencies and came across Cruise and Tours Unlimited, as it was called 'way back then. I spoke to Steve, Chad and Marty and decided from their sincerity about the family business, that this would be a good place for me to start my new career. I was not wrong. They were always available to help with whatever I needed, and I needed so much. The improvements they have made throughout the years in the training of their agents, is just amazing. Our BDMs are helpful also when their expertise is called upon. I am happy that I made the right decision immediately and have grown with their help. If you are looking to start your career, it would be wise to call on Outside Agents (as they are called now). You will not regret it!! Good luck.

Since joining Outside Agents, I have been pleasantly suprised with all the new technology they offer us. It is very easy to use the CRM and receive our commissions. Thank you OA for staying on top of the newest trends, offering seminars, webinars and other means for training. Contacting the office is seamless as well.

I've been with Outside Agents for two years; I started this journey as a hobby, I've made more money than I thought I would. Outside Agent's leadership, technology, learning tools, suppliers, BDM, and customer service team are the absolute best. The monthly fee is minimal; the benefits are astronomical. Outside Agents have given me the confidence to grow a hobby into a business and I'm so excited to have finally found my "Happy Place"!