Surviving 2009 as a Freelance TD

We all know that 2009 is going to be a rough year and many of us have already taken a hit in 2008 with cancellations. So how do you manage in these tough times as a freelance travel professional??

As a hospitality professional who survived the aftermath of 9/11, I feel this is much worse for business because corporations are more concerned about perception rather than refraining from traveling out of fear. Over time fear seems to dissipate much faster. Restoring financially stability may take more time.

Having said that, I have come to realize that as a freelancer it is extremely important that we diversify our services, network like there is no tomorrow, improve our skill set and focus on career development. One of our members recently posted a great comment on our message board regarding these same points. Click here to read more…..

Treat companies you work for as true clients. When it comes down to it, as a TD you are the vendor. This means you must run your business like a business. Many planners will occasionally mention to me that many TD’s just show up with little ethusiasm, do their job and then move on to the next project. While companies understand this is how you earn your living, don’t think this goes unnoticed. Repacking program supplies haphazardly, not completing forms properly or following accounting instructions can come across as inconsiderate and cause more work for your clients. How about sending a handwritten thank you note after completing a program, calling the planner a few days after arriving home and saying thank you for the business, asking if he/she has questions you could answer to close out the program. Letting your clients know you care is the best way to be rehired.

Something that can also help is to ask the planner to review your services and if there were ways you could improve. As an INTD member, you may be reviewed online by INTD Planner Members. We suggest that anytime you are granted an interview or are hired through INTD, ask the planner to post a review on your personal profile. For more information click here....

Don’t forget to focus on improving your skills. Learn a new language and computer program, obtain your CPR and First Aid certification, write articles for INTD’s newsletter, volunteer at local fund raisers in your city to gain experience in areas where you may be weak. You never know who you may meet at these events.

There are a million ways to stay connected during these slow times but I have to say that becoming a member of INTD is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. Being part of a network that supports your profession is priceless. As meeting professionals rely on MPI for career development, our goal for INTD is to fulfill this same need for freelance travel directors. As an INTD member, use the resources provided after logging into your account, post comments on the message board, update your profile frequently (planner members can see the last time you signed in when they view your profile).

Stick with INTD and you never know where the road may take you! I hope your holidays were enjoyable and we wish you all the best in 2009. The best is yet to come for INTD!