“I already know my job. I don’t have the time.” If either of those statements sound familiar, we ask that you continue reading and consider the many benefits of earning your certification. There is no better time than now to consider advancing your career during our Promote Your Professionalism event when certification scholarships are offered at a 50% savings. You will need to act fast because this ends on 7/31/20!
You can join 26,000 travel professionals who have earned their professional certification. Here are five benefits that you can look forward to once earning your CTA, CTC or CTIE from The Travel Institute:
1. It is more than experience: While there is no replacement for the education you receive from on-the-job experience, it is not the end of learning. Experience can make you strong in some areas, but not all, and certification brings new skills, ideas, and opportunities. You don’t know what you don’t know, so try something new.
2. It is a brand differentiator: When customers inquire, employers interview or peers compare – the competition is stiff. But, if you are certified, and others are not, then you have a competitive advantage. It is a very powerful – and visible – way to set yourself apart from the travel hobbyists in our industry. Use it and promote it. If you need help promoting your certification, we have tools for you, and we soon will offer a new way that showcases and explains your credentials to the outside world. As a graduate you will benefit from FREE marketing tools such as your Digital Credential, press release templates, and the opportunity to be listed on our consumer facing certified travel agent directory.
3. You are in an elite club: Your credentials plug you into an exclusive community of insight and knowledge with others who have earned certification. When you are at a conference or networking event, seek them out, exchange business cards and use this peer group to build your business. If you are studying for certification, take advantage of study groups and test prep webinars. Stay connected to your classmates throughout your career. Networking is critical to personal growth and business development.
4. It sets you up for continuous learning: Certification does not end when you graduate. It marks the beginning of ongoing learning. Maintaining your certification requires 10 Continuing Education Units every year. Taking the time to learn about a new region, country, or specialty in depth adds to your skill set and offerings to your clients. Remain curious and take every opportunity to learn something new. You will gain respect and admiration and be a model for success.
5. It builds confidence: We asked a recent graduate how she felt after earning her CTA and she said “I just feel so much more confident in myself and feel good when I can help others in my office.” When you make a commitment to yourself, put together a plan, work hard, and reach your goal, you gain confidence. It is one of those YES! moments, and that positive attitude spills over into all aspects of your life, and you may even notice new body language! Start using your power as soon as you graduate.
BONUS: It brings you more money: Many Travel Institute students see earnings increase 20% or more after they graduate, and past Travel Institute industry surveys have confirmed this trend. When you learn more, you earn more. Certification builds the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to take risks, improve marketing, revise business plans and take action.
