Chelsey Benkner. (Source: Chelsey Benkner)
‘Success Stories focus on veteran advisors and how they achieved success. Here’s a look Chelsey Benkner, CTC, owner of Ready Jet Go Travels.
How did you get your start as a travel advisor?
My passion for travel comes from a place I can’t quite pinpoint. My family didn’t travel much when I was a child, yet I always felt a deep desire to see the world. At 16, much to my parents’ surprise, I signed up for a youth trip to India. That trip changed my life – the history and culture were so vastly different from anything I had ever known. I was hooked. By 19, I was off to Brazil on a solo adventure. I am certain I caused my parents some major heartburn!
As I continued to travel, I became the go-to person for friends and family when they had questions about traveling. Eventually, I had a lightbulb moment: I could turn my love of travel into a career. In 2017, I officially became a travel advisor.
Interestingly, all my years of personal travel didn’t fully prepare me for entering the industry. There was a lot of trial and error as I navigated how to get started. I eventually chose a host agency that offered a week-long, in-person training followed by a six-week online program, which gave me the confidence I needed to get rolling.
After about a year, I realized I wanted to be independent. I obtained my IATAN and CLIA credentials, finalizing everything in late 2019 – just in time for COVID. Needless to say, starting my independent venture just before a global crisis made for a rocky beginning. However, it provided invaluable lessons in operating a travel agency during uncertain times. While I hope to never repeat that experience, I’m grateful for the skills I gained.
Air Canada Vacations is offering a new collection of tours exploring Incredible India. (Source: Air Canada Vacations)
How did you build your business?
Having a core group of clients who are cheerleaders has been pivotal. Many of my clients have become friends, both on and off social media. I genuinely care about them, and in return, they refer me to their friends and family and continue to book trip after trip.
Beyond fostering strong client relationships, offering a high level of service has been a major differentiator. I’ve built systems that streamline my business, such as automations and workflows for repetitive tasks. These tools free up my time, allowing me to focus on truly understanding my clients’ needs and delivering exceptional service.
What characteristics make you a successful advisor?
In an industry built on relationships, strong communication skills and emotional intelligence are essential. These two things have had the biggest impact on my success.
Often, clients come in thinking they know exactly what they want but are actually looking for something else. The ability to listen, read between the lines and guide them toward the best options builds credibility and trust. I’ve lost count of the times clients were set on a specific destination but ended up thrilled with an alternative suggestion – often a place they hadn’t considered or even heard of.
Emotional intelligence is equally critical. No matter how well you do your job, there will always be challenges, like dealing with an unhappy client. Navigating these situations with empathy and a focus on resolution is a skill that pays dividends.
What were your greatest challenges?
When I first started, my biggest challenge was figuring out how to build a business. It was difficult to find mentors and navigate the industry, but over time, I found my footing.
COVID was another major challenge. Endless hours were spent canceling or rebooking trips, often for little or no income. Seven-hour hold times and uncertain callbacks became the norm. It was exhausting, but it taught me resilience and adaptability.
Now, my biggest challenge is balancing my growing business with family time. With a husband and eight kids, time can feel scarce! Thankfully, I’ve found amazing virtual assistants who help keep things on track.
Challenges evolve. The hurdles I faced at the beginning now seem routine, while new ones have emerged. It’s important to embrace the journey and stay adaptable.
What are your greatest accomplishments?
In 2023, I expanded my agency to become a small host, and mentoring new advisors has been incredibly rewarding. In 2024, I completed my Certified Travel Counselor certification through The Travel Institute, which has enhanced my ability to guide and support my team.
Some of my greatest accomplishments, however, are less public. They’re in the heartfelt thank you cards, text messages from clients expressing gratitude, a travel advisor ecstatic about their growth from last year thanking me for guidance, and thoughtful gestures like a Christmas ornament declaring me ‘World’s Best Travel Agent.’ It’s these personal moments that make my work so fulfilling.
What tips can you provide advisors new to the industry?
Whenever I speak to new advisors, I emphasize that success in this industry doesn’t happen overnight. It often takes two to five years to establish yourself and build momentum. While some agents hit the ground running, they are the exception, not the rule. Be patient and kind to yourself.
Use your early days wisely. Take advantage of slower periods to complete as much training as possible. Once business picks up, it’s harder to find time for professional development.
Seek out a mentor. While Facebook groups can be helpful, a mentor who is invested in your growth will take you further. As a small host agency, I take pride in mentoring new advisors and helping them navigate the industry.
Finally, remember that this is your journey. It will look different from everyone else’s. Don’t get discouraged if things don’t fall into place immediately. Behind every success story is a lot of hard work that isn’t always visible. Keep going –you’ll get there.
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