The transition from education to travel consultancy proved prosperous for Jon Berridge, a former teacher now thriving as a travel consultant.
- With comprehensive training from Hays Academy, Berridge launched his travel consultancy career, rapidly gaining clients and success.
- Within a brief period, his endeavours exceeded expectations, allowing him to focus solely on his burgeoning travel business.
- His success was unforeseen, initially planning to balance the new venture with supply teaching, which he later found unnecessary.
- Hays Travel proved to be a supportive environment, aiding Berridge’s career transition with their welcoming atmosphere and effective training.
Jon Berridge’s journey from a secondary school teacher to a thriving travel consultant exemplifies a successful career shift catalysed by effective training and support. *The Hays Academy provided him with tools and knowledge, enabling a rapid start in his new role.* After commencing training on June 17, he took his first booking by June 30, a testament to the agency’s impactful curriculum.
*Contrary to his initial expectations of juggling teaching and his new role, Berridge found himself immersed in numerous inquiries and bookings.* This surge in activity rendered his supply teaching registration unnecessary. His previous career’s demanding schedule had affected his mental health, prompting the need for change. Deciding to take a leap into travel consultancy proved beneficial for his work-life balance.
*Berridge’s meticulous research led him to choose Hays Travel due to its reputable standing and familial work environment.* He appreciated the welcoming nature and support from peers and trainers. ‘It is a bit of a cliché but it’s almost like a family,’ he mentioned, appreciating the non-judgmental atmosphere during the intense three-week training.
The quick uptake in Berridge’s sales reflects not only his dedication but also the robust framework provided by Hays. With a supportive system and specialist coaches, the New to Travel Academy has enabled individuals like Jon to leverage their existing skills in a new industry. Tanya Cooper, Hays Travel’s head of Personal Travel Consultants, remarked on the success of trainees from varied backgrounds, praising Berridge’s entrepreneurial spirit.
The New to Travel Academy offers a virtual induction training programme along with mentorship, helping trainees transition smoothly into the travel sector. As seen in Berridge’s rapid progression, *those who excel in interpersonal skills thrive in this environment.* His story aligns with the academy’s goals of harnessing skills from diverse sectors, demonstrating a versatile pathway for newcomers into the travel industry.
Jon Berridge’s career transition illustrates the potential for success with the right support and determination in the travel consultancy field.
