What is a corporate travel consultant?
What does a corporate travel consultant do?
- Crafting travel policies and procedures: corporate travel consultants develop comprehensive policies and guidelines that govern employee travel. These policies ensure consistency, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with legal and safety regulations, as well as the travel needs of the business.
- Negotiating contracts: with their industry expertise and networking skills, corporate travel consultants establish partnerships with airlines, hotels, and other travel suppliers to secure competitive rates and favourable terms for their company. These negotiated contracts can significantly reduce travel expenses.
- Analysing travel data: corporate travel consultants leverage advanced analytics tools to analyse travel data and identify opportunities for cost savings. By monitoring travel patterns, expenditure trends, and performance metrics, they can make informed recommendations to optimise the travel programme.
- Ensuring policy adherence: it is the responsibility of corporate travel consultants to educate employees about the company's travel policies and guidelines. They work closely with travellers, providing guidance and support to ensure adherence to these policies and maximise the benefits of the travel program.
- Providing travel reports and data insights: by generating comprehensive travel reports, corporate travel consultants offer valuable insights into travel expenditure, compliance rates, and traveller behaviour. These reports help management make data-driven decisions and identify areas for improvement.
What's the difference between a corporate travel consultant and a travel agent?
- Organising airfare
- Booking hotels
- Car rentals
- Visas and healthcare insurance
- Travel policy compliance and duty of care
- Managing reimbursements
- Assistance with travel-related issues during the trip
How to become a corporate travel consultant?
- Acquire relevant education and training: a degree or diploma in travel and tourism, business management, or a related field can provide a solid foundation. Consider enrolling in specialised courses or certifications that focus on corporate travel management.
- Gain industry experience: Entry-level positions in the travel industry, such as a travel agent or travel coordinator, can provide valuable insights and practical experience in managing travel arrangements. This experience will help you understand the intricacies of corporate travel and develop essential skills.
- Develop strong communication and negotiation skills: effective communication is crucial when dealing with various stakeholders, including travellers, suppliers, and management. Sharpen your negotiation skills to secure favorable contracts and build long-lasting partnerships.
- Stay updated with industry trends: the corporate travel industry is constantly evolving. Keep yourself informed about emerging technologies, travel management platforms, and industry best practices. Attend industry conferences and participate in relevant professional associations to expand your network and stay abreast of the latest developments.
Is using the services of a travel consultant the best option for my company?
- Negotiated rates with airlines and hotels to secure cost-effective options
- Accessing a massive inventory of corporate accommodations, including hotel rooms, all within a single platform
- Providing comprehensive travel reports and data analytics to optimise your business travel programme
- Offering a user-friendly booking tool that simplifies the process for employees—who knew creating itineraries, managing travel costs, and improving the travel experience could be done with one, simple process?
- Defining and automating your travel policy guidelines and approval workflow for better compliance
- Assisting with traveller support, including rearranging transportation and advising on safety measures for national and international travel
- Your employees also have a direct line to contact our Customer Care team for immediate assistance, 365 days a year, 24/7