Question 1

Is it necessary to do the following?
1. Register my Business name?
2. Obtain an E.I.N. ?
3.  Have a business email?

Accepted Answer

We do require a registered business name and EIN. We do not require but we highly recommend creating a business email as well!

Question 2

Can agents request one on one coaching if they feel they need  personalized attention in a specific area?

Accepted Answer

Hi Buffy, Yes!  We do have 1 on 1 coaching opportunities.  Just log into the TQAgentPortal and look to the left rail.  Under Quick Links you will see TQ Coaching.  Just click there to schedule time.  Once you fill out the form we send over a quick email to get an idea of the topic/topics an agent is looking to discuss.  Lots of times we are able to send info before the call to help with a little education before the actual call.

Question 3

Are there opportunities throughout the year that home-based agents in Travel Quest can meet and network together?

Accepted Answer

Great Question, and one we get asked fairly often by our current agents and agents considering us as their possible host.

Within our Travel Quest Network close Facebook group we have all of the events listed that we come in contact with put on by our many suppliers.  Just a quick look tonight shows lots of great opportunities for supplier sponsored events.  

Then of course we have our sponsored events that we "tag team" with our vendors like Delta Vacations, Gogo Vacations, Funjet Vacations and our cruise partners like Norwegian, Carnival Cruise Corp and Royal Caribbean, Travel Leaders Regional meet ups, the Travel Leaders National Convention and our VERY OWN TRAVEL QUEST WORLD, so lots of opportunities to meet, mingle & share. 

Because of our expanded staff we have the opportunity to support even more events so in 2019 you can expect even more events sprinkled across the states.  The best part of my job is meeting and sharing with everyone!

Question 4

What CRM does TQ use track bookings?

Accepted Answer

Hi Nancy,
Thank you for writing in.  Agents currently have access to Agent Mate which is a complimentary CRM.  With that said you are welcome to use whichever CRM you choose.

Question 5

Are agents able to book groups directly through an airline and have access to ticket the group themselves without charging the client a ticketing fee?

Accepted Answer

Good Morning Dusty!  Our agents are able offer group air travel.  Our ticketing team at Travel Quest Network will issue the tickets.  Our policy on ticket fees right now is, If the carrier charges a fee to ticket direct with them, we will also charge a fee, but the fee will be less than that of the carrier.  If the carrier does not charge a direct ticketing fee, we will not charge a fee.  Hope that helps.  Have a great day,  Bonnie

Question 6

I would also like to lead my own small group tours.  Do you have a training program that would help me become a Tour Leader/Operator

Accepted Answer

Hi Jennifer,
Great Question! We do  have great options on training for organizing and selling groups which you may find helpful.  We also have a Certified Group Specialist Training through Travel Leaders. We have a variety of suppliers that excel when it comes to groups.

Question 7

What programs do you have available to assist agents in building their businesses?

Accepted Answer

We have many items our agents get including marketing materials, website options, a lead generating profile, CRM, training, and much more! Many of these items our agents get for free.

Question 8

DO you offer in- person trainings or coaching for those that are just starting out?

Accepted Answer

Hi Marissa,  We have group coaching calls for all our members, with set topics like:
Selling Cruises
Welcome to Travel Quest Network
Ordering Brochures
Travel Leader Training
Groups and how to Sell
and many more.  
PLUS we love when our members submit their topics as well!  I am a firm believer that if one member has a specific question, there is certainly another who might not want to ask, or doesn't even think of it.  A huge value in our group coaching calls is the power of learning from our peers and collaborating with peers.  The results and relationships formed are so exciting to see.

If there's a specific topic you are thinking about, or looking for, don't hesitate to let us know.  

Wishing you the best as you research host agencies!

Bonnie

Question 9

Since I will be doing this on my spare time to start, I want to know if this host agency has  minimum productivity requirements.

Accepted Answer

Hi Ailyn,
Great Question!  We require one booking a year to stay active in the Travel Quest Network.

Question 10

Will the study resources be self taught or will there be "In person" classes.

Accepted Answer

Hi Willie, Most of the study materials are online but there are many opportunities for in-person events as well!

Question 11

Do you require branding as Travel Quest Network, or can I brand as Greybull Travel?

Accepted Answer

Great question Dale! You will brand yourself as your company (Greybull Travel) to your clients.

Question 12

What determines whether your commission percentage is 70% or 90% ?  Thank you.

Accepted Answer

For our Jumpstart plan agents start at 60% commission and are promoted to 70% once they've earned $5000 in commission over the previous 12 months. When starting out with Travel Quest Network agents can choose which plan they want to start on though. So if you want to start out at 90% commission you can!

Question 13

Will the study materials clearly outlines the journey a newbie will take in order to feel qualified to call himself a TA?

Accepted Answer

Hi Willie. All our training is self-motivated. Each agent is different when they feel comfortable to call themselves a TA since our agents are all coming with different backgrounds in the industry. We've heard from our agents anywhere between 1-6 months is average for feeling comfortable.

Question 14

Will there be testing to determine if the study material is clicking for the newbie?

Accepted Answer

Hi Willie. No, we do not test on the materials. We are here to help via email or over the phone if our agents have additional questions.

Question 15

I recently found that some agencies have a Non Compete Clause, do you have it?

Accepted Answer

Hello Ingrid. No, we do not have a non compete clause!

Question 16

DO YOU HAVE A VETERANS PROGRAM?

Accepted Answer

We don’t have a veterans program in place at this time, but it is something we are working on and we would love to chat with you about it.

Question 17

How do you determine what the startup cost will be?

Accepted Answer

Hi Jessica,
The start up costs is $199 per agent.  Please let us know if you have any other questions.

Question 18

Is there an additional charge associated with leads provided by the company?

Accepted Answer

Hi Kristina,
We do not have a additional charge associated with leads you receive.

Question 19

Do you give any kind of start-up discount for agents transferring from another agency?   Thank you kindly.

Accepted Answer

If an active agent can show they've sold over $500,000 in sales in the previous 12 months we waive the sign up fee fully!

Question 20

Are agents charged a monthly fee for website hosting or any other reason?  Thank you.

Accepted Answer

We have a free website option available for agents. Monthly fees are based on which plan the agents select with us ranging from free to $45/month.

Question 21

Does Travel Quest allow and pay commission on outside bookings ?  Thank you kindly :)

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can work with any vendors!

Question 22

How do you figure out what specific amount for a startup fee is charged for a particular IC?

Accepted Answer

Hello Monique. There is a one time start up fee of $199. This fee is waived if an agent is joining with previous experience and sales over $500,000/year!

Question 23

Is your agency registered with the state of Florida or exempt from registering?

Accepted Answer

Hello Ailyn! We are registered with the Florida Seller of Travel License.  Florida does require agents fill out the Independent Contractor Statement of Exemption that lists you under our Host Agency.

Question 24

In addition to the $199 start-up fee are there any additional costs for the necessary training in order to book flights, cruises, tours, hotels, etc?

Accepted Answer

Hi Willie! All of our training is optional and almost all of it is free. There are only two paid classes that cost $19 or $39. They are not required but they are fantastic trainings.

Question 25

I'm seriously interested in your agency and what to know what the on boarding process entails for a new agent?

Accepted Answer

Hi Monique. To join Travel Quest Network we require a phone consultation, a registered business name, and an EIN number.  Once an agent joins we have a welcome email with trainings we recommend and a handful of logins for the top used vendors!

Question 26

What FAM opportunities do you offer for new agents? And for new IC's with your agency?

Accepted Answer

There are lots of FAM opportunities for agents! We host a couple of Travel Quest Network FAM trips each year plus all the FAM's vendors offer.

Question 27

I like that you don't charge an annual fee, but how is commission figured out for a new IC?

Accepted Answer

Hi Monique. You can actually select which commission plan you want! We offer our Jumpstart (60-70%), Pro 80 (80%), or Pro90 (90%).

Question 28

Question is regarding E&O insurance. I understand you provide this. Does that mean I can be a sole proprietor or is it still best to become a LLC?

Accepted Answer

Hi Tonya! You can choose how to you want to register your business. We accept all the types so you can select which best fits you and your business. You are covered under our E&O insurance but we also recommend getting your own. It is generally a smaller policy and custom fit then to your company.

Question 29

Hello, I am interested in your agency. Can  you please tell me if you require a personal guaranty and are there any restrictions on personal bookings?

Accepted Answer

Hi Melody,
We would love to set up a time to chat with you.  We do have a contract and you would be liable for any fees or errors that would occur.  We do not have restrictions on personal bookings.

Question 30

Once I decide to begin my relationship with TQN, will there be a clear "start to completion" syllabus and curriculum of study.

Accepted Answer

Hi Willie,
Once you join Travel Quest we put together a list of the top training's we suggest you review.  Everyone has different knowledge when starting so we can certainly suggest training paths that would make the best sense for you.

Question 31

With the high volume  in the travel industry, how often does Travel Quest update their CRM system.

Accepted Answer

We have a free CRM available called AgentMate, which is through Travel Leaders. Agents can also use whichever CRM they prefer if there is a specific one they like.

Question 32

What programs or education is offered by Travel Quest for travel agents to be in compliance with Payment Card Industry (PCI)?

Accepted Answer

We have a CRM available, AgentMate through Travel Leaders, that is credit card compliant to collect and house credit card information. Agents can also use other CRM's that are PCI compliant if they would like to. We recommend and train on how to collect and apply payments for trips.

Question 33

What programs does Travel Quest offers to assist the agents in obtaining their accreditation with ASTA and IATAN?

Accepted Answer

Agents can be added to our IATAN list right away. Agents can also earn their own IATA ID card after earning $5,000 in commission over the previous 12 months. ASTA is a great group that our agents can join as well! We have had many deals with them in the past to join.

Question 34

I’m considering joining your host agency. What makes Travel Quest different from all the other host agency?

Accepted Answer

We hear the best feedback about the support for our agents! We are a family-friendly feeling host agency that is very personable.  We get to know our agents by their names and you get to know us as well. We are available by phone, email, and newly chat!

Question 35

Is Travel Quest is an American Express Travel Representative?

Accepted Answer

Our agency is apart of the American Express (APEX) program.

Question 36

When singing up with Travel Quest, does Travel Quest offer any travel agents a sign up discount with CLIA for their membership?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We are a premier agency with CLIA which offers a discount to join plus free training classes, bonus commission booklets, and more.

Question 37

Is Agent mate included in the cost, or is the subscription for that a separate fee?

Accepted Answer

AgentMate is included in the cost for our agents!

Question 38

With the different levels of membership plan, does that mean more leads are directed to the agent?

Accepted Answer

The difference is the amount of commission the agents keep and the monthly cost. Everyone has access to Agent Profiler, the lead generator to gain leads.

Question 39

Does all the agents leads come from Travel Leaders Network and Tzell?

Accepted Answer

All agents have access to Agent Profiler, the lead generator!

Question 40

Hello. Do you offer on site training or a boot camp as well as online training? If so, where and what is the cost?

Accepted Answer

Yes we do! Travel Quest World is our yearly national meeting and training weekend. The location moves each year, in 2020 it is taking place at Ceasars Palace in Las Vegas from August 7-9, www.travelquestworld.com. It is $125 to attend, which includes food and training for the weekend. There are also in-person training events that vendors host all over the US, and they are generally free. We offer tons of free online training including pre-recorded trainings, live webinars, and on-demand classes.

Question 41

Do you offer detailed training for new agents when they join?

Accepted Answer

Hello Margie. Yes, we offer lots of great training for new agents when you join. We have a full program called Travel Quest University that breaks training into modules. We offer one-on-one coaching and small group coaching calls. Plus optional specialist programs!

Question 42

Will my clients be able to seek help during an emergency situation if I'm unavailable? Is there a help desk or support they could contact?

Accepted Answer

Hello Tina, this is a great question. While our support team is in the office Monday through Friday to assist our agents, many of the suppliers you may be working with, such as travel insurance, may offer 24-hour support so you can rest assured your clients are taken care of during an emergency situation. Additionally, you will have an entire network of support from other independent travel agents.

Question 43

Do I need to come in with a website, social media, phone number? What about the costs associated with a domain name?

Accepted Answer

Hello Cheryl! No, you don't need to come with a website and social media sites already set up. We have tools and training for you to use if you would like to If you already have a website and social media sites you can continue using what you are as well. You don't have to get a separate phone number if you don't want to. Domain costs are different depending on where you get them from. There are lots of places online you can get domains from including GoDaddy or CheapDomain. It's up to you!

Question 44

How soon after start up fees are paid can a new TA expect to be qualified to book their first vacation?

Accepted Answer

Hello Willie. After the start-up fee is paid you will receive your logins within 7 business days. It is a personal comfort level when agents feel qualified to book their first vacation. This is because we have agents just starting out in the industry and some with lots of experience. We've heard from our agents on average is takes between 1-6 months to feel qualified.

Question 45

Hi, can you tell me what the cost of Travel Quest University is? Thank you!

Accepted Answer

Hi Emily. Travel Quest University is free for our agents!

Question 46

I have my own website, can I integrate TQN booking engines into it?

Accepted Answer

Hello James! You can use your own website as an agent with us. We also have website options available. We do not use website booking engines as it opens up a higher possibility for fraudulent activity booked under you.

Question 47

What is your starting commission, and how can I earn a higher commission?

Accepted Answer

Hi Mark. You can actually select which commission level you would like to start on with us! We have 3 options ranging from 60% up to 90% commission. You can also switch your plans to keep more commission. There are no requirements for sales to switch to a higher plan.

Question 48

Do you have robust support for international travel, especially to Asia?

Accepted Answer

Hello James. We have a very strong knowledge of international travel and travel companies (vendors/suppliers). We do not have current training based on travel to Asia but you would be able to schedule a one-on-one coaching call for free for training and support on Asia Travel.

Question 49

Do you provide an itinerary builder?

Accepted Answer

Hello Anne,

We have great relationships with some of the top-rated travel agent itinerary builders like Travel Joy,  Axus, and TESS.  We often have discounted rates available with these products.

Question 50

Once we sign up, how long is it before we can book our own personal travel at a discount?

Accepted Answer

Once your membership is approved, you are given access to our booking tools. You can begin booking travel at that time.

Question 51

I can't find a sample website.  Will you please post a link to a sample website that is provided to your agents.

Accepted Answer

We work with several partners who provide travel agent website services for our agents. One is Travel Leaders Edge. You can see visit a sample site here: https://worldvia.vacation.travel

You also get a free agent profile on travelleaders.com by joining Travel Quest Network: https://www.travelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=89401

Question 52

Does TQ provide support to agents on weekends? HAR profile states hours are 9am-5pm M-F, but also lists "24/7 support" -- which is it?

Accepted Answer

Hello Anne! Our support hours are 9-5 CST Monday - Friday. We also have a private Facebook group where agents ask questions all the time including evenings and weekends when we are not in the office. The 24/7 support is for our corporate agents who have GDS access.

Question 53

What is the benefit to joining a host agency that only hosts and does not sell travel as a travel agency?

Accepted Answer

The benefit is that we are not competing with our members for the attention of future clients.

Question 54

If I signed up with your agency, and then decided to leave, do I get my pending commissions? Is that in writing on the contract agreement?

Accepted Answer

Hi Tina,

Thanks for your question.  Yes, if you leave Travel Quest Network, we will still pay you your commissions that you booked while you were active with us!

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