Choosing the right host agency is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make as a travel advisor. For those new to the industry, it can feel especially overwhelming. Often, new advisors don’t know what they don’t know and may not even be sure what questions to ask before getting started.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the process by providing a framework of essential questions to ask, empowering you to create a list tailored to your individual priorities and business goals.
Your host agency serves as your business partner, providing the tools, resources, and support you need to succeed. However, not all host agencies are created equal, and it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure the agency aligns with your needs. While no host agency is perfect, this guide will help you identify your top priorities and determine whether a host agency is the right fit for your business.
Here are 10 key questions to ask before joining a host agency:
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1. What Education & Networking Opportunities Are Available to You?
A strong host agency should offer robust education programs that cater to advisors at all experience levels. If the training is only geared toward new advisors, it may not support your long-term growth. Look for opportunities such as live events, online courses, supplier training, and specialized programs in niches like luxury travel, cruises, all-inclusive vacations, or group travel. Continued education is essential as you grow and evolve as an advisor, are they creating new educational content often or have they had the same offerings for years?
Do they host their own events or provide online spaces for community building? A strong sense of collaboration among members can make a significant difference in your experience.
Networking and educational events can accelerate your growth by providing access to suppliers, BDMs, and experienced peers. These events offer opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and fast-tracked learning.
2. What Are the Commission Splits?
Understanding the commission structure is crucial. Ask about the percentage split and whether it varies by membership plan, your revenue, travel supplier, or booking type. Are there sales quotas or thresholds you need to meet to maintain your commission level? If you start at a lower split, is there a clear and attainable path for growth? Knowing these details will help you evaluate the financial viability of the partnership.
Commission splits are a key part of understanding your earning potential as a travel advisor. When you book travel for a client, the supplier (like a cruise line, hotel, or tour operator) pays a commission to your host agency. The commission split determines how much of that commission you, as the advisor, get to keep. For example, if a supplier pays a 15% commission on a $5,000 booking, the total commission is $750. If your host agency offers a 60% split, you’ll keep $450, while the host keeps the other $300. However, with a higher split, like 70% or 90%, you’d keep $525 or $675, respectively.
Lower splits mean you’ll need to book significantly more to earn the same income as someone with a higher split, so it’s important to carefully evaluate how the commission structure will impact your ability to make a good living.
3. What kinds of technology will you have access to?
Technology is the backbone of an efficient travel business, and the tools your host agency provides will directly impact your productivity and client experience. Ask which platforms the agency uses for CRM, booking management, reporting, and marketing automation. Are the systems intuitive and regularly updated?
Look for technology that streamlines your day—from quoting and invoicing to itinerary management and client communications. Strong technology support not only saves you time but also helps you deliver a seamless, professional service that keeps clients coming back.
4. What Marketing Support Is Provided?
Marketing is a cornerstone of growing your business, and many travel advisors admittedly need support in this area. While you may excel at sales, planning and client relationships, marketing yourself and your business requires a different skill set and intentional action.
Ask if the host agency provides marketing content, tools, or lead generation programs. Do they offer pre-designed marketing materials, social media templates, or email templates/campaigns?
If they provide leads or lead generation tools, clarify whether the commission split differs for those bookings and whether it applies to future bookings or referrals from those clients. Additionally, assess whether the host agency actively improves its marketing offerings based on advisor feedback.
5. Can I Book Air Travel Through the Host Agency?
Air bookings can be a valuable revenue stream and a key service for client retention. If a host agency doesn’t allow you to book or service air travel, take notice. You should be able to offer a service that’s included in the travel experience for the vast majority of the trips you will be planning. If your client is cruising, you should be able to get them to that port city.
Does your host offer commission opportunities for air bookings? They exist, and yes, they are available! Does the agency have a support team that will assist you in servicing this critical component of travel? Beyond the added revenue potential, offering air travel as part of your services can significantly enhance client retention and satisfaction.
6. Am I an Independent Contractor or an Employee?
Clarify your relationship with the host agency. Most host agencies operate with independent contractors, allowing you to run your business with autonomy while benefiting from their resources and support.
Ask about the terms of your contract or membership agreement, including its length, exclusivity, and non-compete clauses, and what happens to future commission payments if you leave. Will you retain your clients if you decide to move on? While you may hope to find a long-term host, it’s essential to understand the exit process.
7. Can I Use My Own Brand?
Building your own brand is a critical step in growing your business. Ensure the host agency allows you to operate under your own brand, including using your logo, customizing marketing materials, and managing your social media presence. While you’ll need to adhere to supplier policies and maintain professionalism, you should have the freedom to establish and promote your unique identity.
8. What Booking Tools and Supplier Relationships Are Available?
Ask about the supplier partnerships the host agency offers to you as an advisor under their host agency. Are their commission levels top -tier (the highest commission percentage that suppliers will give travel advisors)? Are you restricted to specific suppliers, or are some suppliers only accessible after meeting certain sales thresholds? Transparency is key—ensure the host agency is open about their supplier relationships and willing to answer your questions.
9. Will You Have Access to Supplier Business Development Managers (BDMs)?
BDMs, or business development managers, are invaluable resources for travel advisors. They provide training, marketing support, and guidance on group travel, contracts, and pricing. They also serve as escalation points for resolving issues. Confirm that you’ll have access to BDMs and that their contact information is readily available. Building relationships with BDMs can significantly enhance your ability to sell confidently and profitably.
10. What Support Is Available for Problem-Solving and Growth?
A good host agency should offer ongoing support, including coaching and troubleshooting. Ask about the availability and accessibility of support teams. Are there sales thresholds to access certain types of support, such as phone assistance? Evaluate whether the host agency provides a robust member portal with resources like FAQs, AI tools, and training materials. Support is a critical factor in your long-term success.
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Final Thoughts
While no host agency is perfect, a good one will answer these questions openly and honestly. Use this guide to identify your top priorities and evaluate how each host agency aligns with your business goals. The right host agency will empower you to grow your travel business while providing the support and resources you need to thrive.
If you’d like to learn more about how WorldVia Travel Network addresses these questions, reach out to our Expansion team at hello@worldvia.com. We’d love to have a conversation!