The Common Misconceptions About Partnering With a Business Travel Agent

In the realm of corporate travel management there are often misconceptions surrounding the value and benefits of partnering with a business travel agent. From the perspectives of a variety of in-house roles, various concerns and assumptions can arise. In this post, we aim to debunk common misconceptions, instead shedding light on the advantages of a business travel agent. By addressing these concerns head-on, we hope to highlight the ways in which a trusted travel partner can streamline processes, enhance cost savings and improve overall travel experiences.

Misconception from the Business Traveller:

‘I like to book my travel because I know what I like, whereas a business travel agent doesn’t’.

While it’s true that business travellers have unique preferences, a skilled business travel agent excels at tailoring travel experiences to individual needs. At Your Travel Corporate we take the time to get to know you, your company and your individual travellers. We want to understand specific requirements per traveller to ensure flights, accommodations and other arrangements align with personal preferences. By leveraging our expertise and industry knowledge, we can offer valuable recommendations and insider insights to enhance your travel experience.

Misconception from the CFO:

‘We don’t have a budget for a business travel agent; isn’t it an expensive service with pricing out of our budget?’

Contrary to popular belief, partnering with a business travel agent can actually result in significant cost savings. Travel agents have access to negotiated rates, discounts and exclusive deals within their industry that is not readily available elsewhere. An agent’s expertise in managing travel budgets and optimising itineraries can lead to more efficient and cost-effective travel arrangements. Ultimately, the value gained from time savings, enhanced productivity and personalised service outweighs the cost of an agents fees. Or find yourself a business travel agent that can promise these benefits WITHOUT charging fees. Like ourselves at Your Travel Corporate.

Misconception from the Procurement Manager:

‘We already have negotiated rates and discounts with our favourite providers; its not worth partnering with an agent.’

Negotiated rates with preferred providers are valuable, however a business travel agent can offer many additional benefits. At Your Travel Corporate we have access to a vast network of suppliers for which we have rigorously negotiated exclusive rates with. We can offer you options and secure the most competitive rates for each specific trip. It’s very likely that we can offer you more suitable options than your preferred supplier in a number of ways, cost being only one of them. Our recommendations are always personalised to your individual traveller whilst aligning to your company travel policy. In partnering with an agent like us, businesses can further optimise their travel procurement strategy and drive additional cost savings.

Misconception from the Human Resources Director:

‘Partnering with a business travel agent would take too long; we need a new travel solution ASAP’.

Contrary to this belief, partnering with a business travel agent should actually expedite the travel management process. Travel agents specialise in streamlining the sourcing and booking process, utilising cutting-edge technology and dedicated expert teams. At Your Travel Corporate we can assist in developing and implementing customised travel policies that align with your company objectives. In addition to this, there is no time-consuming process in partnering with us. Our clients stick around not because we have lengthy contracts of service (we don’t!), but because we genuinely solve their business travel headaches and we do it quickly and efficiently.

Misconception from the Travel Arranger:

‘Working with a travel agency previously was a huge headache, I can’t imagine a new one would make my life easier.’

Past negative experiences with travel agencies may have led to scepticism, but not all business travel agents are created equal. It’s important to partner with a reputable and reliable business travel agent who understands your organisations unique requirements. At Your Travel Corporate we hear this one a lot. We prioritise customer service, with regular, proactive and transparent communication alongside a seamless travel experience. We are a business travel agent that WILL turn a previously negative experience into a positive and stress-free partnership.

Want to know more?

Call one of our dedicated business travel experts today on 0203 805 4599 for an informal chat about your company’s business travel requirements.

Alternatively, check out our client reviews here.