Ciarra's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddengemstravel

Website: https://www.hiddengemstravelandexcursions.com/about-me

Summary: In this episode of the No BS Travel Advisor podcast, Marcie Muensterman speaks with Ciarra St. Arnold from Hidden Gems Travel and Excursions. They discuss Ciarra's journey into the travel industry, her experiences with burnout, and how she navigated her early career challenges. The conversation highlights the importance of finding a niche, the impact of social media on business, and the realities of client expectations in the travel advisory field. In this conversation, Marcie Muensterman discusses the importance of establishing boundaries in work-life balance, influenced by her upbringing in a supportive family. She shares insights on navigating social media for client engagement, the value of investing in personal growth through courses, and offers practical advice for travel advisors on finding their niche and being authentic in their approach.

Takeaways:

Ciarra's journey into travel was unexpected and on a whim.

Burnout can occur early in a travel advisor's career.

Finding a niche is crucial for success in the travel industry.

TikTok can be a powerful tool for gaining clients.

Authenticity in communication is key to client relationships.

Charging a fee can help filter serious clients.

Navigating client expectations is essential to avoid burnout.

It's important to set boundaries in work-life balance.

Ciarra learned to embrace her unique voice in marketing.

Building a support network is vital for travel advisors. Establishing clear business hours is crucial for work-life balance.

Family support can shape one's work ethic and priorities.

Social media can be leveraged effectively for client engagement.

Investing in personal growth can lead to significant professional benefits.

Finding a niche helps in attracting the right clients.

Being authentic is key to building strong client relationships.

Calendar control can streamline work processes and improve efficiency.

It's important to set boundaries with clients regarding communication.

Not every client will align with your business model, and that's okay.

Offering clients the benefit of the doubt can enhance relationships.

Titles:

Navigating Burnout in the Travel Industry

Ciarra's Journey: From Newbie to Niche Expert

The Power of TikTok for Travel Advisors

Finding Your Niche: A Travel Advisor's Guide

Overcoming Burnout: Lessons from the Travel Field

Authenticity in Travel Advisory: A Key to Success

Sound Bites:

"This business does not have to suck the life out of us."

"I would never send people here."

"I was like, I can happily refer you to someone else."

"I want it to be something that you're going to enjoy."

"I cannot be a workaholic."

"You do not have to work 24/7 to have success."

"I love a small town dad."

"I was like, I cannot do this anymore."

"I just want to enjoy my free time."

"Just be yourself."

"Calendar control is such an easy change."

"You are hanging out close to your mom."

"Every client relationship is a little different."

Chapters: