Travel Agent Finder (TAF) founder Anna Shannon has welcomed the launch of ATIA’s TravelTick consumer directory, heralding any new resource that will help travel advisors gain greater visibility.
Speaking with Travel Daily, Shannon (pictured) said that while there are certainly similarities to what TAF offers advisors in Australia, TravelTick differs in two meaningful ways.
“[TravelTick] is a ‘business’ listing, whereas I am about the ‘individual’ and what they personally bring to the table,” Shannon explained.
“I am also open to all Aussie agents, [TravelTick] is for ATIAaccredited members only.
“ATIA’s message will be around accreditation – which is exactly what they should be doing.
“But not all home-based, independent and mobile agents are in a position to be ATIAaccredited, they are, of course, welcome to join TAF.”
Five years ago, Shannon said she approached ATIA with the idea [for an agent directory], and admits she was disappointed they could not ultimately work together on the project.
“It is great to see some movement on this finally,” Shannon said.
“The similarities in our marketing message and language reinforce the importance of working with the right specialist to consumers – we are singing the same song.”
When asked whether TravelTick may pose a threat to TAF, Shannon said there is room in the market for more resources.
“A rising tide lifts all boats,” she said, adding that agents should advertise wherever their audience is looking.
“TAF and TravelTick are both key to an agent’s marketing mix and if they are eligible, they should appear on both,” she said.
“But when TravelTick’s 120,000 consumers a year reaches my 200,000 a month, ask me then,”
Shannon joked.
