Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shirley Grant. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Shirley thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you take vacations? How do you keep things going – any advice for entrepreneurs who feel like they can’t step away from their business for a short vacation?

I absolutely take vacations. As a business owner it’s important to prioritize self care and mental health. I firmly believe that you cannot pour From an empty cup. As an entrepreneur it is so easy to neglect yourself and get caught up in trying to build your brand. Being the person who is responsible for everything with the business will deplete your energy. To entrepreneurs who feel like they can’t step away from their business for a short vacation I would say, you must make time to replenish you. It doesn’t have to be long vacations. several short vacations will help you to rejuvenate and regroup. As a Travel business owner it’s a little easier for me to do. As I put together vacation packages for my clients I make sure I schedule something for me as well.

Rest and relaxation can help you take a step back and return with fresh eyes and new ideas about the direction you want to drive your business

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

A travel business owner I manage and operate my own travel agency. I research destinations, find the best deals on flights, hotels, and tours, etc, I assist clients in planning their vacation experience, securing travel arrangements, and providing personalized service to ensure a smooth travel experience, all while managing the financial aspects of the business and marketing services to attract new clients.

I started by business right before the Pandemic and needless to say I had mixed feelings about continuing the business during that time. Although I was not booking travel during the pandemic I took that time to work on my craft, by doing travel Destination training, such as Jamaica, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Las Vegas, New Orleans, and even places like Greece and Ghana. I also completed training with some of the top leaders in the industry such as Marriott, Carnival, Royal Caribbean.

I got into the travel industry because I wanted to prepare myself for retirement, and I wanted to be able to do something I love to do. Travel affords me the opportunity to help clients with their vacations as well as earn money doing what I love to do. when a client asks me to book a trip to a destination I have never been, It really motivates me. Doing research to learn about new places and help people is what I really love to do. I provide professional service to all my clients by being responsive, attentive and delivering results.

One aspect of my business is I have the opportunity to help others start their own travel business. Owning my own business and being able to leave a legacy for my son is my Why.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The best source of new clients are my former or my current clients. My clientele grows from referrals. As a travel business owner each time I deliver exceptional service the likelihood of my clients referring me to a friend is good. Travel is something just about everyone loves to do or wishes they could do. The excitement grows when I help clients put together that perfect vacation package and show them how they can plan early and pay over period of time. As someone who is still growing her clientele, I actively network with businesses such as my local nail or hair salon, my local shops and restaurants etc. I optimize my online presence through a very active and engaging social media presence and actively participate in industry events to build my reputation and reach new prospects.

We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.

With so many options available for booking travel, It is important to me to build a relationship with my clients and give a level of service that makes them trust me and want to continue utilizing my services. I am always honest and responsive with my clients.
To keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty, I always try to personalize communication. knowing what form of communication appeals to my client is important. Some clients prefer text messages while others prefer a phone call or an email.

I prioritize customer experiences, I actively seek feedback, I respond promptly to inquiries, and build trust through transparency, engage on social media, and creating a emotional connection with my story.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shirlgrant.inteletravel.com
• Instagram: ygs_travel
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/12Cj78V1QM1/