Host agency Travel Edge Network has launched Edge Advantage, a training and education program.
Travel Edge (No. 27 on Travel Weekly's 2022 Power List) said the program is designed to serve new and experienced advisors. For instance, new advisors would benefit from a 90-day mentorship program with online and one-to-one training. Seasoned advisors benefit from more targeted training, like the "Build Your Business" program that's focused on website development.
Edge Advantage also includes quarterly "Bootcamp" training programs. Advisors have access to Travel Edge Network's directors of hotel, air, insurance, cruise, tour and activities during the events, so they can ask questions live.
In the year ahead, Travel Edge said it will continue to build curriculum and a la carte training for advisors. Specialist programs will also launch later this year with cruise, hotel and air focuses, with more to come next year.
"We know that with the return to travel, advisors are needed now more than ever and are working to keep up with the demand for the services of a professional travel advisor," said Michelle Leal, vice president of member engagement for Travel Edge. "As they may not have the ability or desire to take the typical two years to complete a training path, we have responded to their needs to be successful on an expedited timeline."
Edge Advantage is designed to complement Travel Edge Network's Knowledge Trips, or firsthand visits to destinations. That program launched in June 2022 with a trip to Rwanda. Future trips are planned to Portugal, the British Virgin Islands and Kenya.