Welcome to Up Front: a two minute chat with a winning Canadian travel agent who loves the biz—and it shows! Open Jaw recently chatted with Barb Derbowka of Travel Masters North in Calgary.
Barb in Maui
How long have you been in the business? I’ve been a travel consultant for ten years – five as an employee and five as an independent. Going independent is the best way to do it, that’s for sure!
What was your first job? My first job ever was as a waitress (I think I earned $5 an hour). My first job in travel was at Marlin Travel in Ft. McMurray – you kept busy sending everybody back to Newfoundland!
How has the business changed since you got into it? I’d say a lot: the commission cuts, the fact that you have to work harder to make money. But I have to say I enjoy having the repeat clients and getting referrals from them. That part hasn’t changed.
Do you have a specialty? I do both corporate and vacation – but I enjoy vacation travel as I love to travel myself. I love going to a destination and then selling it to my clients knowing they’ll have a good time. And I find wedding groups challenging but fun.
How do you keep up on industry affairs? Sales reps pop in to give us training, plus I go to all the trade shows and product launches.
If your clients were to describe you what would they say? I’m very open, fun, a good communicator I think.
What drives you crazy? People who internet shop and want you to price match!
What would you say to someone coming into the business today? I’d recommend working at an agency for a while and consider becoming independent.
What do you see as the up and coming vacation destination? Huatulco—I think it’s booming and I hope they add some new hotels. I’d also like to see more activity to Nicaragua: the Barcelo Hotel there is wonderful.
What was the best piece of advice you ever received? Don’t take things too seriously because life is too short. That’s my motto.
If you weren’t doing this what would you be doing? Probably sales in oil and gas for the money…or a flight attendant, for the love of the business!
If you had to spend six months in a destination what would it be and why? I’m learning Spanish now so I’d like to go to Mexico and come back speaking it really well.
Where are you going on your next vacation? Huatulco.
What do you do to keep your clients loyal? I give my repeat clients a discount, and if they’re really good clients I’ll provide an airport limo for them or give them a present like a carry-on bag.
What would you like to be doing 10 years from now? Retired and living in Maui!
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