If you have a deep love for Disney, possess extensive knowledge of theme park trivia, and consider yourself a skilled vacation planner, becoming a Disney travel agent may be a dream job for you. These agents spend their time discussing all things Disney and assisting guests in booking memorable trips.
Sue Pisaturo, the owner of Small World Vacations, a prominent Disney vacation travel agency, has observed the industry’s growth over the past 25 years. We reached out to her to gather valuable tips on how to pursue a career as a Disney travel agent. Here’s what you should be aware of before embarking on this enchanting new profession.
How to Become a Disney Travel Agent
Becoming a Disney travel agent can be pursued in different ways, depending on your goals, the agency’s requirements, and your location. Whether you plan to work part-time for friends and family or pursue it as a full-time career, most agents operate remotely rather than from a physical office. It’s important to understand the laws and regulations governing travel agents in your state and to ensure compliance as an independent contractor.
While there are learning programs like the College of Disney Knowledge and Disney Travel Agents modules that can deepen your knowledge of Disney destinations, Sue Pisaturo suggests that firsthand experience is the best preparation. Visit Disney theme parks, stay at the resorts, dine at the restaurants, embark on a Disney Cruise Line or Adventures by Disney trip, and explore Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii. Familiarizing yourself with the offerings and experiences will enable you to provide effective guidance to future travelers.
Disney travel agents are responsible for helping guests plan magical experiences, so staying updated on Disney news and trends is crucial. Most individuals who choose this career path are passionate Disney enthusiasts and derive joy from helping others have those special moments that can only be found on a Disney vacation.
Finding the Right Agency
Before embarking on your journey as a Disney travel agent, it’s important to find the right agency fit. Understanding some key aspects will help you make an informed decision. Disney travel agents provide a service by booking trips for travelers, and the agency receives a commission from Disney. The commission split is negotiated between the agency and the agents, with agents receiving a portion of the earnings. Agencies differ in their practices, so Sue Pisaturo suggests asking certain questions when evaluating potential agencies.
- Fees: Inquire about any upfront fees charged by the agency and any other fees associated with training and education.
2. Contracts: Find out if there are mandatory sales goals or hours. Ask about the duration of the independent contractor contract.
3. Agency Support: Learn about the tenure of agents within the agency, as it can indicate agent satisfaction. Understand the support provided by the main office to agents. Determine if the agency offers leads or if agents are responsible for generating their own sales. Inquire about social media marketing assistance, including information on Disney’s rules and restrictions. Clarify the frequency and method of commission payments.
4. Agency Information: Determine if the agency is an Earmarked Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and at what level (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond). Check if the agency is part of Universal’s U-Preferred program. Research if the agency is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and inquire about other professional associations they belong to. It may also be worth checking if the agency has been involved in any lawsuits with agents, guests, or vendors.
Asking these critical questions will help you make an informed decision when selecting an agency. Additionally, conducting online research and exploring their social media presence can provide further insights into the agencies you are interested in.
