Just Picture It Now: November 2007

Friday, November 30, 2007

Redifining The Rules...

If you haven't guessed by now that the travel industry is undergoing a revolution that is redefining the rules of engagement between travel firms and consumers I've been mulling over some very interesting reading this week that might clue you into what's going on in the Travel Industry. We've spoken before about how travel is moving to the internet and a whopping $40 BILLION was spent last year with just the top 4 online Travel Agencies. (Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, and Priceline.com.) A couple weeks ago Travel Weekly posted a report that online Travel Sales have now exceeded offline sales for the first time since comparison tracking started. Online sales now hold 51% of the revenue this year, and is expected to reach 60% of the bookings by 2009.

In a similar report back in April of this year eMarketer estimates that 41.3 million US households will book travel online, representing 52.5% of all US online households. US online consumer travel sales (consisting of airline, hotel, rental car, cruise and vacation package reservations) will reach $94 billion, up 19% over 2006. "People coming of age during the dawn of the Internet have different expectations of the businesses that serve them. They like businesses to come to them, with the right product, at the right time, in the right way."

Traditional Agencies have really been feeling the effects of loosing all this business. So much so, they are starting to look at other avenues to stay in business. Kevin Kelly, a 25-year industry veteran, said "This industry is starving for fresh blood" and he continues "We've been beating our heads against the wall trying to find qualified people, so we're moving outside the box to find people from other walks of life."

What did he come up with? If you can't beat the internet and all the US Households out there, you might as well join them. He announces that he's now looking for customers to start Traveling Like a Pro, enabling the "Average Joe" to have their own membership, book cruises for themselves, friends and family, and get actually get paid the commission for doing so.

You can imagine the uproar over something like this with the other Traditional Agents that have been hanging on to the small thread they now have in this huge market shift. It took no time at all for The Association of Retail Travel Agents (ARTA) to call out the cruise industry and practically demand that they enforce policies against what the ARTA considers "rebating". However, Mr. Kelly, Cruises Etc. President, clearly doesn't see it that way, it's appears (at least to me) that it's more about survival than anything else.

While he knew there would certainly be critics, he clearly wants to stay in business. (Oh and there are certainly critics if you take the time to read the comments below.) He clearly can't find anyone qualified that's willing to help him, so he's opening doors to those who might like to take a stab at the "Travel Agent" thing.

Kelly finshed up his comments "It's an approach to educate a consumer and help them become our independent contractor. We're all about getting them educated. We have forums, get-togethers with the business development managers from all the lines, webinars, weekly email updates.

It's good to see a verterian like this willing to bring in new blood for the new age of travel. I have no idea if he'll be able to pull it off or if the industry will accept his thinking. If he stays true to his word about training and education however, and the cruise industry helps him, I'd look for this company to be another player in the new age.

Just like another company I know.

Subscribe to Just Picture It Now for additional announcements and details!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight
AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agent / Networker
Phone: 678.458.5812

Learn How To Become A Travel Agent

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

Travel Reservations: 1.800.243.4450
RTA #24635

Labels: "Card Mill", ARTA, Cruise, Online Travel., Travel Agent, Travel MLM

Posted by TravelPro at 5:05 PM | Permalink | Comments

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Houston...We Copy.

I got to tell you...it was good to get away with family for a number of days and get out of this mess going on in the Travel Industry for a couple of days. While I did have cell phone service, my in-laws don't even own a computer at the house let alone internet access on the farm in South Georgia. They do have and need one for the business they own, but home to them is not a place for a computer. I typically go through withdrawal myself when I'm down there, but this year was a little different. With all the negative energy and hate going on concerning Travel MLM's from some very vocal Traditional Agents, it was a much needed break to kind of recharge and be back in an environment that was not only positive, but supportive.

I spent part of the last few days trying to catch up on any new developments going on concerning our industry. Other than the common rhetoric going on with some of the message boards and various anti-MLM (YTB) Blogs it seems to be rather quite out there right now.

I wanted to share publicly some internal communications to let the rest of the world know that their concerns are not only being heard by me, but also the company.

YTB TRAVEL NETWORK TRADE SHOW GUIDELINES

VERY IMPORTANT: YOU ARE REPRESENTING YTB! TRAVEL TRADE SHOW ATTENDEES ARE YOUR PEERS, NOT PROSPECTS.

Travel Trade Shows are non-solicitation events and selling of advertising, products, or services by agent delegates is prohibited.

Spouses or guests are not permitted unless they are a bona fide home-based travel agent. Event management reserves the right to qualify all registrants and allow or prohibit anyone from attending the show who does not fit the travel agent criteria.

Dress code is business casual. No t-shirts are permitted, logo or otherwise. Please do not wear blue jeans or shorts.

Professionalism and ethical behavior is expected of all RTAs attending Travel Trade Show events. No marketing is permitted by agent delegates. Be sure to be respectful of travel suppliers and other attendees. Exhibit a positive attitude towards suppliers and their products. Remember that your behavior is a direct reflection of YTB and any infraction of the above policies may harm YTB and your teammates. Violations will be addressed by YTB Corporate.

Thank you to everyone for your cooperation as we strive to become the largest travel agency in the world!

Like I told everyone before the break, I've never personally witnessed any of the behavior personally being address, but that doesn't mean it doesn't happen. To me, it's silly that we even need to address this issue, as it's simple common courtesy to those who have been in this industry for much longer that any of us have. It's also extremely unprofessional as a business owner. I know most of the people involved in YTB and have attended many CRTA Trainings, Trade Shows and Supplier Sponsored events in the years I've been with the company. Everyone I've seen has in fact been "professional". There will always be a small percentage of irresponsible people in any company or organization that ruin it for the rest of us. YTB currently has 134,000 RTA's out in the field. While 99% could be working this business the right way, the remaining 1% still consists of over 1000 bad apples who reflect the entire company.

(I by the way have no way of knowing what the exact percentages of how many bad apples there are.)

One of my mentors, Rick Ricketts has been saying this quote for years, and I think it applies here.

"I get up every morning, looking for people who are looking for me."

Rick happens to be one of the most successful people in YTB, he's made millions with this company and he has one of the largest organizations in this company. We have a company approved video of Rick, and I want you to watch not only how he presents himself, but how he's dressed. I don't know why anyone would think that a vendor, a supplier, another Travel Agent would be "looking for you", but clearly they are not, so can we just let it go?

Part of the journey my last three years in YTB has been the incredible knowledge I've obtained not only about the travel industry, but being a business owner, and a true mentor and leader to the growing team I have assembled. I'm constantly learning and growing in all areas of this business and it's my sincere desire to be better tomorrow than I am today. While this growth and change can sometimes be uncomfortable, it's also required in order to achieve both personal and professional levels that most of us have always dreamed about since we've been little. It's my belief that those of us who have joined the ranks of YTB still have that dream and see YTB as the vehicle to achieve the levels we desire. I'm pleased to see how well equipped most of us are to not only welcome the change, but adapt to it.

I'm pleased to see that the company agrees that we need to grow and mature to become the largest Travel Agency in the world.

Subscribe to Just Picture It Now for additional announcements and details!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight
AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agent / Networker
Phone: 678.458.5812

Learn How To Become A Travel Agent

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

Travel Reservations: 1.800.243.4450
RTA #24635

Labels: "Card Mill", Travel MLM, YTB

Posted by TravelPro at 8:48 AM | Permalink | Comments

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

A Couple of Thoughts for The Extended Weekend...

Before I head out today for an extended weekend with family, I wanted to do one last post. I can't tell you how thankful for I am for YTB and what's it's done for myself and my family. I've been talking to team members, both above, below, and cross line to me for months about what's been going on in our industry and our company right now. While some have expressed concerns, we also know that YTB has made some major advancements and headway into the travel industry this year. There appears to me, an underlining confidence with everyone I talk to and an understanding that even in the face of all that's being pointed at us from outside sources, we will continue to grow and prosper.

There is no question that there has been a lot of fighting, (like cats and dogs?) and finger pointing going on the last month and a half in our industry. I want us as a individuals in YTB to take some time this weekend to point inward for a change. We as RTA's are the face of YTB, and I want you to take some time to seriously think about what you are doing in regards to helping or hurting the image of a company I know we all love.

I'm sure it's no secret at this point that many of our Professionals feel that we embarrass them. We are unprofessional, we are untrained, we are uncertified, we are unqualified to enter into an industry they have loved and respected for years. I've stated many times here that they are sadly mistaken if they want to lump me personally into any of these stereotypes when it concerns our business model and company. I am not only very competent, but confident in what I do.

It's been commented to me from several sources that I'm actually spoken of in high regard from some of our Professionals. Many of our Professionals do understand that I am not the typical "Yahoo", and for that I am truly thankful. That doesn't change the fact that I happen to be the exception, not the rule when it comes to YTB and the overall perception of our company.

I got to ask...why?

It's my belief that part of the respect I've managed to gain from the Professional side of this industry is because I am one of a growing number who not only acknowledges, but calls attention to some of the problems and issues are regarding some of our RTA's who are the main cause of our problems. I'm starting to see more of us actually acknowledging what's going on and for that I am also thankful. We can't just stick out heads in the sand and hope it all just goes away. We need to call a spade a spade, and we need to let others know that some RTA's are certainly not helping our cause or our case.

There always seems to be a jerk, a fool, a person who lacks professionalism, and lacks just plain good manners and common sense. All of which gives a bad name and taste and a target for any business out there. i.e. the expression "One bad apple can spoil the whole barrel."

I've been to dozens of Trainings and Seminars in my years with YTB. I've also been with Team Members at these functions, and have never personally seen any of what's being told to me, but with so much of this being expressed, I can only assume that it is going on. In addition with some of the garbage I've seen on the internet, if it's going on in here, it's certainly going on out there.

Here are some of the things I'm hearing and want all of us need to be aware of:

It is not appropriate to attempt to recruit at Travel Seminars where other Brick and Mortar stores paid for themselves and their employees a lot of money receive the trainings. Nor is it appropriate to attempt to recruit while walking the floor at Travel Shows or Vendor Fairs where vendors have paid a lot of money for booths in order to inform Brick & Mortar stores and other internet stores and others in the travel business about what's new in their business.

Nor is it appropriate to go walking around like fools as a group wearing green tee shirts with sayings like "ask me how you can get your travel for 50% off."

Or crashing parties of other travel agencies.

Or running around ships spouting off to the travelers that you are with YTB and you can show them how they can travel at 50% off when they paid full fare.

Or slipping hand made flyers under all the doors of the ship's passengers that say about the same thing.

Is it any wonder that we look unprofessional? (Actually, I think the word "turkey" would be appropriate this weekend.) It's unfathomable to me that anyone would even consider doing any of this, but I also have something called integrity and ethics that simply won't allow me to even consider something so rude or down right stupid.

"If it aint right, don't do it.
If it anit true don't say it." ~ Coach

While it's my understanding that action is being taken with an RTA or REP from a Corporate standpoint. We have made agreements with vendors who we want to do business with to behave in a professional manor. An RTA might stand the possibility of losing their YTB business. We also need YOU as a YTB professional to take a stand with anyone you may see doing this out in the field. If I personally ever see anyone defacing that good name of YTB like this, you will certainly know before it's all said and done that not only is this inappropriate, but will not be tolerated.

Period.

YTB has a name, a great name, to protect as do all of us as RTAs. We are a company to be proud of. Help us to keep that way. Before you act, ask yourself, "If this was my company, my show, my business, how would I want someone else to act at it and what would I want them to say or better yet not say at my function?"

It's like owning a store and having stranger come up to your long standing customers and say, "Don't buy this here. You should go to a store I know where you can get the same thing for 50% off." How would you feel as that owner? I've seen some other Travel MLM's try to recruit me and others in YTB using these lame tactics and I got to tell you, not only am I not going to join an organization like that, I too want to expose them for what their doing as well.

Got it?

Good.

I want you to not only be thankful this weekend that YTB has a "Travel University" (E-Campus), I want you to read about it and take this training this weekend. It's in your travel portal, it's up and running. It's an awesome program and it's specifically designed for us by one of the most respected names in the industry, Dr. Marc Mancini.

I want you to not only be thankful for vendors this weekend but review the tons of vendors who have put their training up in our back office in order to help us to do great things with them as well. Pages and pages of information direct from the vendors themselves. These companies know that we have over 135,000 agents and growing rapidly every day, who are bringing them lots and lots of business and they want to do what ever it takes to help us bring that business their way.

I want you to also be thankful for the Travel Professionals in our industry. There is so much we can learn from them to help build a profitable Travel Business. They have years of knowledge and experience that is absolutely priceless.

YTB is a force to be reckoned with and we are only getting better. We can and will be as well trained as every other travel agent, if not better. We can and will be the best trained, most professional Agents in the industry. It is up to us, and if we want to be #1 we need to learn and know all we can about our business so we can take it there.

This is the best company in the best industry with the best people I've ever had the honor of working with and I feel blessed and Thankful everyday that I am a part of YTB.

PS - Eating a little Turkey and watching a Football game in your spare time this weekend is also acceptable.

Gobble Gobble!

Subscribe to Just Picture It Now for additional announcements and details!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight
AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agent / Networker
Phone: 678.458.5812

Learn How To Become A Travel Agent

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

Travel Reservations: 1.800.243.4450
RTA #24635

Labels: Travel Agent Training, Travel MLM, YTB E-Campus, YTB Travel

Posted by TravelPro at 10:13 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Travel Weekly Numbers Fact or Fiction...

You can't tell me that YTB hasn't been at the center of attention for most everyone in the Travel Industry for the past few months. When news broke back in early October about Royal Caribbean, one of the first companies both suspect and named was YTB. Since then there have been countless news stories, message postings, e-mails, and phone calls concerning the one company in the spotlight; YTB. I woke this morning to find Company President of YTB Travel Network, Kim Sorensen named by Travel Weekly as one of the most influential people in the Travel Industry. (Page 2) There is little doubt that YTB is making one heck of an impact in the industry.

"Sorensen went, in a matter of weeks, from a virtual unknown in the industry to its favorite target for vitriol (from traditional agents and some suppliers) or admiration (from his tens of thousands of referring agents and, behind closed doors, some suppliers.) He has demonstrated some grace under fire, admitting his organization is still maturing, and we suspect that he and YTB will be around for many years, forcing all parties to examine what constitutes a legitimate seller of travel and challenging suppliers to assess how, and with whom the wish to do business."

During the year, Travel Weekly has been most gracious in allowing YTB to voice just who we are and what we do. Yet there are those who simply will not recognize just how we as a company have changed this industry this year. Rumors still swirl concerning our #35 Ranking this summer and the $226 Million we booked in Travel. Even when given the chance to defend the numbers reported, some choose to simply ignore the fact that our booking numbers came from our suppliers, not YTB, and these numbers represent travel sales, not marketing sales.

In the Travel Weekly report dated October 24th there are a number of statements that are either ignored or simply misrepresented when it comes to how much Travel YTB actually booked in 2006. I hate treating people like a bunch of grade school children, but it's become increasingly evident that some either don't know how to read, or don't have a basic understanding of the English language. How some of this information eludes them is unknown at this time, but we will attempt once again to educate those that want to discredit our company and our numbers.

The ranking was based on YTB's response to the Power List survey, where the company reported about $226 million a year in "verified sales". There's that word again, "verified" which actually means confirmed as to accuracy or truth by acceptable evidence. There is a lot of contention and controversy right now if these numbers were actually "verified" by Travel Weekly. If these numbers were not verified, I don't know why this publication would quote Mr. Sorensen as stating they are "verified sales".

Sorenson said that figure reflected the total value of bookings that resulted from referrals by its agents, not YTB's actual net revenue. The "spin" is that this statement does not reflect actual travel "bookings" but rather recruiting sales. I honestly don't know how someone can misunderstand this, but somehow the word "bookings" magically turns into "recruiting" and "Agents" somehow magically turn into "Reps" who are selling web sites not travel.

Sorensen said that the $226 million sales figure it offered to Travel Weekly describes the volume of revenue it generates for cruise, vacation and other travel suppliers, rather than YTB's own net revenue. This paragraph is deleted in all posts found on forums and message boards. It simply isn't discussed or pointed out for those who wish to discredit our ranking or our "verified sales". It just magically goes away or is ignored.

"What we reported for the Power List was gleaned from numbers that we got from suppliers: how many passengers were booked through us, or the figure for dollar sales at the end of the year. We didn't reconcile that with reports from our representatives. We just pulled in information on our sales from many reports and many sources for that". And because we did this, not only is YTB misleading everyone, but now our suppliers are also misleading everyone. Nobody can be trusted when it comes to Network Marketing I guess. The number given to Travel Weekly came directly from Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Apple Vacations, World Choice, and the rest of our "shady" suppliers. Gleaned means "to collect bit by bit" and you would think that collecting numbers directly from suppliers would add even more credibility, but apparently that's not the case when it reports Network Marketing numbers.

Helping our Travel Professionals understand that these are in fact travel sales, and not recruiting sales is even more difficult when they try to fit a square peg into a round hole. There seems to be this notion that the travel booked in 2006 ($226 Million in sales) has to be reflected somehow in our SEC filings for the same year. ($7.4 Million in commissions.) The two simply don't match up and somehow our Professionals use this insight to try to discredit our ranking.

Based on this information and if we match the $226 Million in "Travel Sales" with $7.4 Million in commissions, that would reflect that YTB earned on average 3.2% in commissions across the board. Yet it was noted back in January that 30 to 35% of our bookings are cruises. Based on 30% of the $226 Million Travel Weekly "verified" this one category alone would produce $10.8 million in sales. This does not include air, hotel, tours, cars, tickets, or all-inclusive packages.

Confused?

Here is what our Travel Professionals are missing. Travel commissions are not paid until the travel has been consumed. I've used this example before, and I guess our Professional STILL don't understand how this works so let me cut and paste from a previous post.

I booked an 11 day riverboat cruise for clients from Cologne to Nuremberg directly with UniWorld in November of 2006. While only a deposit was made at the time of booking, a gross sales number was generated and this cruise booking is part of the "verified" travel sales that went on the Travel Weekly report. While a commission percentage and number was known at that time, the actual commission numbers did not show up for YTB (or me) until the cruise was paid on September 3rd. (Typically made 60-90 days before sailing)

On December 1st, my clients with several other couples will be flying to Cologne to enjoy this holiday cruise and when they return, UniWorld will then issue a check to YTB in commission and I in turn receive my 60% cut from YTB. While it's possible that this commission will be paid in December of 2007, it's more likely UniWorld will pay YTB 30 days after, January of 2008.

While "verifiable travel sales" show up in 2006, the SEC filings will not see earnings until Q1 of 2008.

Square peg...round hole.

I honestly don't have a clue as to what it's going to take to help them understand. I've been trying to help Anti-MLM Zealots understand for years how and why our model works. Maybe our SAP NetWeaver® technology platform coming in March will help in this issue. Don't count of it however, like most everything else that adds credibility to our company or industry, there will always be those few feel it's simply better to ignore than accept.

I'm heading over the river and through the woods with my kids to Grandmothers house we go for an extended weekend in the morning. Peace be with all of you and may you find something to be truly thankful for this Thanksgiving Holiday!

Subscribe to Just Picture It Now for additional announcements and details!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight
AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agent / Networker
Phone: 678.458.5812

Learn How To Become A Travel Agent

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

Travel Reservations: 1.800.243.4450
RTA #24635

Labels: Kim Sorensen, Petition, Travel MLM, Travel Weekly, YTB

Posted by TravelPro at 7:34 PM | Permalink | Comments

Thursday, November 15, 2007

More Comments from "Petitioning Agents"

Apparently, I've upset some people for not allowing them to have a voice on my Blog. They feel they have a right to have their views an opinions expressed anywhere they choose. Yet, it's perfectly acceptable for these same individuals to prohibit my views and opinions in areas they choose. Our Petitioning Agents have banded together, and have not only blocked individuals like myself from even viewing what's being said, but have also taken over forums designed specifically for those who work with various Travel MLM's in the industry.

Travel Weekly has set up a specific forum on their web site designed for those of us associated with Travel MLM's. Yet, it's been inundated and overrun by our "Travel Professionals" who do nothing but complain, spread rumor, and flat out threaten those of us associated with the industry of our choice. I am unwilling by the way to allow my Blog turn into such a disgraceful display of slander and ridicule. If you can't be professional and civil, your comments simply won't be posted here.

I found out this afternoon that because I choose to edit and select specific comments on my own Blog, it's not only comical, but quite paranoid on my part. A question was posed as to why I would even bother tipping our Tripso forum members that I know they are talking about and pointing to my Blog. The truth of the matter is two fold. Number one, I want our Petitioning Agents to know that while they think they can hide behind a closed forum we (or at least I) realize that there is considerable attention directed at this Blog as noted from vast number of clicks linking to me from this forum, and two; it's called a "referral link" which actually boost my rankings in search engines if I reciprocate the link back to you. Those that know anything about SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and Internet Marketing would realize how each click back to me, strengthens my voice here on the World Wide Web. It's truly nothing more that me taking advantage of the attention directed at my Blog, and frankly, I'm enjoying it.

You may be asking why I don't respond to what's being said directly on these forums. (Those open for everyone to view and respond too at least.) With the vast number of forums out there talking about YTB and Travel MLM's right now, it would take up far too much of my time trying to keep up with all that is being said. Besides, it's obvious that many people have not only been reading my Blog, but posting links on these various forums back to me. Therefore, I now have one place to post and have the undivided attention of various forums who are all talking about our industry and the issues surrounding it.

Cool huh?

While I don't have the time to go over how to read our financial statements at this point in time, I do want to comment on two common myths and misrepresentations about our how our financials are read. The first is this notion that we take the total number of Travel Sales, and then divide it equally between all existing RTA's. How this formula is even practical is beyond me. Last I knew, we live in a Capitalist Society, not a Socialist Society. I do understand that our children are being taught that we must divide the Christmas presents equally, or come Easter, that the baskets will be collected and all the eggs found will be divided up equally between our children. However, we are not children. To insinuate that I or anyone else in YTB is doomed to make a mere $47 per quarter in Travel Commissions is absolutely preposterous. Anyone wishing to remain "average" like this, certainly isn't interested in being a part of YTB, I can assure you.

The second notion that I get a kick out of is all the fingers pointing to how much more money is made in people who are actually joining our business and not actually selling travel. We all should realize at this point that Travel commissions are not paid until after the travel has been consumed. It takes time to learn, sell and then eventually get paid on Travel with YTB or any other company for that matter. I shudder at the thought of my first years travel commissions with YTB. Now that I'm in my third year, I have both Travel Commissions and Networking Commissions being paid on a regular basis.

By recruiting just one person a month into your business, not only does that cover an RTA's web site fee, but it effectively doubles the size of our business. I know that many think this pyramid will eventually collapse because we'll run out of people to sell too.

The Fuller Brush Company MLM was founded in the 1950's, Mary Kay in 1960's, and Amway in the early 1970’s. Other long standing companies who still rely on the MLM business model are Avon, Tupperware, Nu-skin, Herbalife, NSA, Pre-Paid Legal Services, Primerica Financial Services, Shaklee Corporation and EcoQuest. To my knowledge, none of these companies are less than 20 years old and still going strong using Multi-Level Marketing. (All companies are listed on the DSA web site.) Each of these companies have created massive wealth for those who built via the MLM model, and while the recruiting numbers have certainly slowed for each of these companies, not only are they still growing, none of these companies have collapsed.

One of the biggest reasons why Coca-Cola and Pespi battle back and forth as the two largest soft drink companies in history is because they have the most distribution channels. We are not concerned with how many Cokes each machine sells, our focus is having the most distribution channels available. That's how they have and we will become #1. Each distribution channel, and each RTA doing their part, full time, part time or spare time, YTB will sell the most travel.

Simple.

Lastly, before I sign off, I want to address the issue of the IATA Accreditation that has everyone up in arms. Even though I've been labeled as some type of "muckity muck in YTB" I will tell you that I don't, (nor does anyone else outside of the 4 Companies or IATA) know the full story about the IATA Accreditation at this point. The issue seems to revolve around "improper lending, subcontracting or hiring to a third party of an IATA numeric code by agencies."

Based on this information, this is my guess, and I remind you it's only a guess at this point. With all the new RTA's associated with our business there are those who try to circumvent our own company policy by calling a vendor directly. (YTB has had a policy in place for years that FAM's need to be run through the Home Office and the Reduced Rate Department.) When calling the supplier, they mention they are with XYZ Travel Agency and would like a inquire about an industry FAM. When asked for the IATA number of XYZ Travel Agency, they are instead given the IATA number of YTB Travel Network.

All this will pan out soon enough. YTB has several options available and it's certainly not anything that will stop us from selling or getting paid on travel. I would suspect there are many changes coming in the days and weeks ahead. Most people don't like change. However, at this point, I not only believe change is inevitable but needed on both sides.

I'm reminded of a tip jar I saw in a Sandwich Shop some time ago. Here is what it said...

"Don't like change? Leave it here!"

Subscribe to Just Picture It Now for additional announcements and details!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight
AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agent / Networker
Phone: 678.458.5812

Learn How To Become A Travel Agent

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

Travel Reservations: 1.800.243.4450
RTA #24635

Labels: Petition, Travel MLM, Travel Weekly, YTB

Posted by TravelPro at 6:20 PM | Permalink | Comments

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Excuse Me...But She's Only Inhaled....

The calls and e-mails have been coming in droves over the last several days. News of our Carnival Sale was originally stated to be announced yesterday. A minor glitch has come to our attention which to my understanding has no bearing on our ability to sell or get paid on travel. (Nor does it lack the ability to be corrected.) This in turn has detoured our efforts with Carnival in announcing these numbers.

For those of you who truly understand the forces out there who have been slinging mud lately, certainly you understand. The rumors and accusations that I've seen been thrown around the internet are amazing, especially in light of the fact that there has been no definitive announcement made by anyone concerning anything. People "think" they know what's going on and while some are calling for a concert from the Fat Lady, others who know what has happened realize, it's a little naive to make assumptions without having all the facts. That has little bearing however, when you have an opportunity to point fingers and create your own story to advance the cause.

I don't really know the proper word or phrase to describe the announcements made concerning YTB, both last Thursday, November 8th, and then again yesterday November 13th concerning YTB. Ironic, maybe. Coincidental, possibly. I think our good friend John Freyane and our Petitioning Agents may consider the news "exquisite timing" however.

Therefore, the company has decided to keep a very tight lip as speculation and rumors continue to mount while YTB prepares to answer all the questions circling around the industry. While some of us wait confidently, unfortunately, at this time, I must take a back seat and allow my company to issue statements concerning the future growth and dominance in this industry. As an Independent Representative of the company, it's not my place to speculate to anyone what our future plans are.

I will tell you this. Based on what I know, I personally feel not only very good about what will transpire, but confident that the company will answer in a way that is both accurate and meaningful in regards to just who YTB is, and how we will continue to play a major part in the Travel Industry for the coming months and years.

The first part of our answer has come this evening just after the market close, with news of our second profitable quarterly report in a row, with record revenues of $39.9 Million and our best profit to date of $2.1 Million. ($1.6 Million year to date.) All this, while we continue to grow and expand our infrastructure to support our valued Reps and RTA's.

More importantly, Travel Commissions are starting to support the $226 in sales from 2006 on our SEC filings. I'm sure we will have those who botch these numbers throwing out figures from this filing that support their cause, while ignoring the growth of Travel Sales by those that that have been with this company for more than 9 months. I've seen these numbers and filings ransacked many many times over the years.

We may have to provide a special course on what these numbers actually mean for some of our guests here to enlighten them, but that's another post at another time.

More news to come, I'm sure, and I believe based on the release of our quarterly numbers, it will be sooner than later.

Till then.

Subscribe to Just Picture It Now for additional announcements and details!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight
AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agent / Networker
Phone: 678.458.5812

Learn How To Become A Travel Agent

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

Travel Reservations: 1.800.243.4450
RTA #24635

Labels: Carnival, John Fenaye, Petition, YTB, YTB E-Campus

Posted by TravelPro at 7:16 PM | Permalink | Comments

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Debate and Conversations Continue Concerning YTB...

I found this EXCELLENT post in one of the forums this weekend and have asked the author for permission to re-post it here. She has graciously agreed, but also mentioned that she did not wish to be bombarded with people contacting her. Therefore, this author will remain Anonymous and only the reference to her web site was removed from the copy and paste.

Enjoy!

Seasons Greetings everyone,

I seriously debated whether, or not, I even wanted to take my time with this, but I figured my opinion counts as much as anyone else’s. Having said that, I hope my opinion will not personally offend anyone, because it seems there are a few select people already doing a very good job of that, and that is NOT my intention. My purpose, with this, is to hopefully present an alternative perspective. I am also an RTA with YTB, and while learning the ropes, I must admit that am truly enjoying myself. I am very fortunate to have found this business - a totally unique concept for people like me who need the flexibility this business affords me (and there are many people out there like me).

My current responsibilities do not leave me with not enough time for school during normal hours, so YTB provided the perfect forum for me to learn the business, and slowly develop a career with their incredibly well structured learning format, the support, and the limitless tools, and resources they provide - 24/7, and at a fraction of the cost to get trained, and operate a legitimate multi-faceted business – which can be operated from home – or anywhere. Apparently it seems that those who paid, and paved their way, the old school way, find this rather insulting.

However, these are important features to the stay at home mom (or dad) looking to supplement their income, who may be struggling to make ends meet, living week to week, whose circumstances do not allow them enough time, nor the proper resources to go to school. And, what about those people simply less fortunate, who may be forced to work from home, through no choice of their own, but want a shot at the possibility of cultivating a successful career? These are but a few of many other examples, not listed here.

The point being, shouldn’t they be afforded a chance at building a better life? I’m sure many of you will find arguments against this, and we may never agree, so let’s just agree to disagree, at this point. The main point here is that this business model gives these folks, along with many others, a chance to change their lives, and that’s just what this business has done – at least, for those people taking the opportunity seriously, and using it to it’s full advantage. And, that’s powerful, whether you agree, or not. Again, I realize many of you will be less than supportive, and even more intolerant of what {some of} you may deem as pure hogwash. But, do you think the people being afforded the chance to use this opportunity to it’s full advantage, and who, as a result of this, are improving upon their lives, feel that way!?!

In truth, I can only share my personal reason for being with YTB. Like many other people, my husband and I are tired of struggling - as many small businesses do - in the competitive world of Corporate America, and we saw an opportunity that could provide a feasible, alternate way to achieve a decent (and hopefully, early) retirement. Will my newfound P/T travel career take time??? Sure, it will, just as it does with any other business (I ought to know). Eventually, I hope to do this F/T - as circumstances will allow.

In the meantime, my job is to earn people's business, through trust, and by building their confidence, which is exactly what I am doing. Have I made money, thus far (a point "the others" seem to keep making)??? Well, speaking for myself, the answer is YES... I am making money, and as my knowledge, the time I am able to apply, and my abilities grow, so does my business prosper, and grow. As for the customer service issue, I must agree. If you are going to be in the travel business, you must put your customers, and their needs first. Although, I can admit to not knowing everything (yet), I do aim to help my clients with all aspects of their travel plans, by using the tools and resources provided me, and I do make every attempt to personally handle customer service requests, inquiries, and complaints. If I should come across a problem I can’t solve on my own, and I need help; again, I use my resources. Most of the people that support me in this business know ME personally, and they understand that I am only at the beginning of my journey. Of course, coming from your well-schooled, or seasoned position, you may not see that as viable, and that is okay! I don’t seek your approval. After all, this is a FREE AMERICA, and I don’t see myself as breaking any laws, so… a business I will continue to build!

P.S. I am also happy to report that customer referrals have been outstanding.

As for those clients who book blindly, on any on line site, there realistically lies the potential for an element of risk, but that is entirely their choice to do so. When you get on an amusement park ride, enter the fun house; fly as a passenger on a plane, you do so at your own risk. This analogy is no different than choosing to book your own travel, in a manner of speaking. I do, however, acknowledge and further understand your valid concerns with potential service, and support issues (although I assure you that resources are provided, and available to us, whether you consider these acceptable, or not).

I can only trust that as obstacles befall us (which can be expected in any business) and we are faced with certain challenges, so shall we overcome them, by improving our services, only to make them even better, so thank you for your observations, and constructive criticism.

As far as MLM’s go, in general, YES, they are about building the business model, and some of us focus more on building our down line, but then there are those of us don’t make the down line our main focus, and that is the beauty of THIS business. You do with it what you want, and you can take as long as you need to make it your own personal success story. I know, for myself, I only talk to people about the business ‘opportunity’ if I know it would behoove them to learn about it. Beyond that, it is up to them. Knowledge, after all, is power! Plant a seed and just maybe it’ll grow - if the conditions are right. How wonderful that I am personally afforded the option of both, and that I can utilize these options as I choose, or see fit.

This business is certainly NOT for everyone, but for those who do see the benefit of being part of it, the foundation is in place, and all the tools are provided. What each person does with these is, yet, their own personal story. Based on this, I respect that that is where many of you may have your own personal points of contention.

What I truly find revolting, and personally object to, is that many of you “properly schooled, accredited agents” are so busy slinging slurs, circulating petitions, and citing customer service, on these forums, in the manner in which you do. Isn’t customer service based on character, grace, poise, manners and etiquette? These so called ‘professionals’ have not provided us with ANY shining example of their upstanding character on these forums! What puzzles me, further, is their inference that the only reason people (like me) join on line host agencies (like YTB, amongst many others), is for the travel perks we get. Hmmm… not to say that there aren’t some who do just that, but, seriously now, I’d like to know WHAT it is that motivated these slur slingers to get into the TRAVEL business when they decided to make this their career?!? Are you going to try to tell me, and everyone else, that YOU never entertained the thought of the travel benefits YOU would have being in the business? Not only would you be deceiving me, by insulting my intelligence, and everyone else reading these forums, but you would be deceiving yourself, as well. As for me, the truth is that my personal circumstances, for the time being, do not allow me the time to travel (although I would love to – and certainly plan to, especially as my new business requires me to), but that is not MY reason, in and of itself, for joining YTB.

This of course, will be another point of contention for those of you who will go on to say that you must travel to be able to refer travel, but then I will ask, which side of the fence do YOU actually sit on – or do you know yourself? You can’t imply that travel is the only reason we (the MLM’ers who don’t sell travel but use the perks) get into this business, and make a point of saying that we shouldn’t get into the business to travel, but that is in fact what YOU must do, have done, or will do, in order to responsibly refer travel to YOUR clients.

Read on…Please correct me if I’m mistaken, but as a TA, you’re probably well traveled, and if not, then you will eventually be so (if you are just beginning your career). You claim you paid, and paved, your way through school to earn your credentials, and you may well have your own B&M, or home based business, or work for someone else that does, so I’m sure you’ve partaken in the promotional trips available to you as a TA, to better qualify you for referring travel to your trusting clients. Thus, your insinuations, and accusations, are in direct contradiction to your own words, and actions, and pose a serious misrepresentation on behalf of all your associated accredited agents. This is what I believe is called, “The Pot Calling the Kettle Black.” C’mon you guys… “People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.” I can just imagine the buzz this will stir!

Please don’t sit there all indignant, and lump all of us into one group, or category (ie: hobbyists, opportunists, or whatever else you’d like to refer to us as), and play God by seeking to persecute us, or squash our goals, and efforts, without taking a good look at yourselves, and what is really motivating your hostility, and that which fuels your words, and actions. This is NOT to say that good and valid points have not been made, and that we, as a larger group, need to pay attention to these, because, certainly, there are credible TA’s that have paved the way for us, in this business, much like the forefathers of our country did.

Nevertheless, my fellow YTB'ers (et al), please don't let these purveyors of hatred, slanderous insults, and negative criticisms, or harsh observations irk, or detract you. Why are they up in arms? Well, after careful thought, given from both perspectives, I can only deduce that; "desperate times call for desperate measures", and they are seemingly desperate. As we all know, the best offense is a good defense, and they have neither. Let’s face it, “Roger K” coined it best… this is not the only industry in trouble due to the competitive forces of doing business on the Internet… and this is just the beginning. The times they are a changin’!

Many of these hate mongers, and nay sayers will be forced to face the truth before too long, and when that time comes, you will see many of them changing their tune, and course. Dare I say, that when you can't beat 'em, you're left only to join 'em – at least the smart ones may give it the consideration all Internet business deserves. Hey folks, that’s not to say that we shouldn’t pay attention to “weblets” warnings… these are real threats befalling the industry – and we ALL need to pay close attention to what is REAL, and not simply what may be perceived.

In the meantime, fellow YTB’ers (et al), don’t give credence to their otherwise forked tongues. Simply continue to build your dreams, grow in knowledge, refine your efforts, achieve your goals, and let the nay sayers be. “Misery Loves Company”, so don’t give them any! For those of you who want a good laugh… here's a LINK to the new (complete?) compilation of several other nay sayers un famous sayings by famous, and un famous people. Go figure! http://www.computerjokes.net/088.htm

By the way, the holidays are almost upon us, and many of you will want to order THANKSGIVING FLOWERS, so please stop by and have a LOOK at YTB Flowers (located by clicking on the EXTRA’s tab)...

The FALL GRANDEUR arrangement is especially nice! Remember your loved ones and their special occasions… any BIRTHDAY’S coming up? Yes, we can take care of most of your FLORAL needs, and while you’re on my site, please take the time to look at all the other wonderful things we have to offer! Many thanks for your support and have a blessed day!

Oh, wait… I don’t have a horticulturist degree, and I’m not a licensed Florist. Any risk takers vs. petitioners out there? Let us, at least, entertain a sense of humor - warped, or otherwise. In closing, I do apologize for the lengthy commentary, but I felt compelled to address crucial points being presented, over several forums, thereby eliminating the need for me to go back & forth with any future retort, or laborious rhetoric. (I’m sure many of you will find that rather comforting to know – LOL).

Everyone is entitled to an opinion, whether based on fact, or fantasy… Isn’t that what makes us all uniquely individual, and part of a free society in what we call the GREAT country of AMERICA!?! But, in so doing, let us try to be civil in our communications, and respectful of others rights and choices.

Peace be with you ALL, over the holidays, and throughout the new year!

Subscribe to Just Picture It Now for additional announcements and details!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight
AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agent / Networker
Phone: 678.458.5812

Learn How To Become A Travel Agent

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

Travel Reservations: 1.800.243.4450
RTA #24635

Labels: MLM Myths, Travel Agent Training, Travel MLM, YTB

Posted by TravelPro at 9:27 AM | Permalink | Comments

Friday, November 09, 2007

And the Number Is...

Well, the one day sale is over, and while I have a number in my head, your going to have to wait until Tuesday for the official announcement from both YTB and Carnival to find out just how well we did.

Sorry.

I will tell you that it was a fun week and very exciting talking with team members and other RTA's about how many cruises they booked. If you don't know, cruising is why I got into this business. I absolutely LOVE to talk about cruising. (Okay, I enjoy taking them too!) I was in my element all week long talking about a product I not only know extremely well but love. It's the best vacation money can buy.

Late last night while I was watching a live feed from the home office on the computer I saw how the numbers were growing with calls into the home office, however we still have no idea how many cruises were booked directly on line, or with RTA's who called into Carnival directly. These number are what we will add to our totals that came directly into our Home Office.

YTB and Carnival will be working together over the weekend to compile the numbers, make sure the are accurate, and it is my belief both Carnival and YTB will make a joint announcement. It is also my understanding that our 3rd Quarter earnings will be released at the same day.

While it looked like a quiet week here and all my focus was on the November 8th Sale, our Travel Professionals were in full swing this week. I don't know exactly how you want to define all this, be it Rumor, Spin Machine, or just flat out Propaganda, but what ever it was, they certainly weren't busy servicing customers.

It's been a very long week. I need a little R & R and also need to get this nasty cold I have knocked out. I'll be putting some things together over the weekend and may post before Tuesday. Have a great weekend everyone!

Subscribe to Just Picture It Now for additional announcements and details!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight
AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agent / Networker
Phone: 678.458.5812

Learn How To Become A Travel Agent

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

Travel Reservations: 1.800.243.4450
RTA #24635

Labels: Carnival, One Day Sale., Royal Caribbean, YTB

Posted by TravelPro at 8:04 PM | Permalink | Comments

Sunday, November 04, 2007

24 Hour Carnival Cruise Event – November 8th!

The debate over which business model is more profitable for cruise lines, and which is better suited for customers has certainly escalated in recent weeks. So much so, both John Frenaye and I have gotten the attention of George Dooley, Senior Editor of Travel Trade with a fair and objective review of what each of us are trying to do to suggest much needed changes.

On Friday I documented that CLIA (Cruise Line Industry Association) created 17,852 bookings on October 17th, which translate into an estimated $22.3 million in sales and more than $3 million in travel agency commissions. An entire industry, consisting of 20,790 agencies and 24 Cruise Lines with a combined 180 ships generated this number from my understanding. While Liberty Travel was one of the apparent leaders of this "sale", they certainly didn't leverage with CLIA in their efforts. Others, like Cruise Planners, did look as if they partnered with what CLIA and potentially capitalized with this Association and name.

If your scratching your head like I was how an entire industry with a month long promotion could possibly only generate $22.3 in sales in one day, I've been researching this a little over the weekend. If you recall, Vicki Freed had documented in an article released on Friday, "I know the argument may be that an average sales-volume-per-member may not be that meaningful," she wrote. "But, truthfully, we have many of models in our database -- including traditional -- that are not solid producers. In fact 60 percent of our travel agencies produce less than 10 guests per year." While I'm not certain exactly what percentage does or does not support the industry, I would venture that the majority feel the way Joyce does when she commented "Why would we support you on cruise night when you don't support us? You and Carnival are in bed with the MLM's. Well too bad Vicki, I ain't selling Carnival till you support the real travel agents." Of course we all know by this point that Royal Caribbean DOES support "real travel agents".

So how do we as a group of un-trained, un-qualified, un-regulated bunch of Yahoo's respond to all this? We've been asked by the Leadership of YTB not to sling mud, not to go knocking down doors, not to write letters, but to do one thing and one thing only.

ONE day.

ONE Cruise Line.

ONE Travel Agency.

I've always loved how the leadership in YTB doesn't simply react to all this non-sense, they respond. And for those of you who don't know the difference you should after November 8th.

Carnival and YTB are teaming together to set an all time one day cruise record to show just how viable our business model really is. We are now accepting reservations to be booked between Midnight and Midnight on Thursday, November 8th, for a sailing of your choice with The Most Popular Cruise Line in the World. Not only will I and others involved in YTB be eager to assist you, but we will also have the help and support of Carnival with a special 800 number to make these bookings for you.

Here is the required information we will need to better assist you with your booking with us.

● Full Legal Names (Ex: "Bob" legal name Robert)
● Date of Birth (dd/mm/yy)
● Citizenship
● Emergency Phone Contact for guests sailing
● Dining Preference (Main/Late dining times)
Note: Dining is on a request basis only and confirmed the day of sailing.
● Purchasing Carnival’s Insurance (?) YES/NO
● Payment Information

After Completing the Reservation, Carnival and YTB will provide you with a reservation "Booking Number." This booking number or confirmation number is your reference number for any questions/changes to the reservation. Please keep it in your file.

● Deposit/ Final Payment must be met or your reservation will be canceled.
● Passports are required.

Selected sailings will qualify for a one to two category upgrade during this sale. Please check with your YTB Specialist for these sailings. (And yes, I consider myself a Carnival Specialist.) My wife and I have sailed on Carnival Imagination, Fascination, Inspiration, Triumph, Victory, and Legend. Who knows, you might even get lucky and sail Fantasy during a major hurricane preventing you from getting back into the port of call! (What a cruise THAT was!)

So there you have it. We've been called out and this is the way we've decided to respond to all the "Retail Agents" out there. You've shown us what you can do. Thanks to the support of Carnival Cruise Lines, YTB now has an opportunity to show you what we can do. It's our chance to show the world just how viable our business model really is, and just how refreshing, tall, and cool this glass of Kool-aid really is.

I will not be posting the rest of this week. Instead, I will be busy following the play that has been called, which is gearing up and qualifying my clients with the Carnival Cruise Vacation with which Ship they wish to sail on, sailing date, number of people traveling (double, triple, quad cabin), type of accommodation (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony, Suite), air city (if air tickets are needed), getting the Carnival " Best Fare" and promotional fares that may apply. (Senior fares, Past Guest offers, Military Fares, Cruise Only fares, Resident specials.) These are capacity controlled and not available on all sailings.

PS - If you'd like to take advantage of these great rates and specials, you can contact me here!

Bon Voyage Everyone!

Subscribe to Just Picture It Now for additional announcements and details!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight
AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agent / Networker
Phone: 678.458.5812

Learn How To Become A Travel Agent

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

Travel Reservations: 1.800.243.4450
RTA #24635