This week’s report by Candice May is the last in a series of eight on
the TNW survey that explores agents’ work conditions. From pay to
educationals, from after-hours duty to what agents love and what they hate
– it’s all in the survey.
42% of agents said management was one thing
they would like their agency to change.
THE Industry Employment
Conditions Survey
undertaken by TNW in
March asked participants what
one thing they would like their
agency to change.
Being in control of their
working conditions, one
expects ITCs to be happier
– in fact, they are 11 times
more likely to want no change.
An average of 21% of agents
said they would change
nothing about their agency –
7% of agents working in an
agency compared with 79% of
ITCs gave this answer.
Of the 981 respondents to
the survey, 855 answered
this question. 42% of
total respondents said
management was what they
would most like changed
in their agency – more
specifically, 51% of agents
employed by an agency and
3% of ITCs. Some agents
said they did not feel their
hard work and effort were
recognised or rewarded,
while others said their
managers could work on their
communication skills and be
better at giving support.
Benefits such as training,
educationals, medical aid and
provident or pension fund
were what needed to change,
according to 21% of agents
employed by an agency and
8% of ITCs. Some agents
commented that they would be
able to sell destinations with
more confidence if they had
experienced them themselves
– especially junior consultants
who are new to the industry.
Other things agents said
they would like their agency
to change were their earnings
and work hours. Overall, 13%
said their earnings – 15% of
agents employed by an agency
and 3% of ITCs – and 6% said
work hours – 6% of those
working.
What you said about…
Management
I work hard but higher management does not
acknowledge my efforts.
I do not like the management hierarchy. Management
should treat all colleagues with the same respect.
Benefits
Educationals are important and the agency should pay
for them in full.
It would be great if my agency offered better maternity
benefits
Earnings
I have not had a salary increase in four years!
I am underpaid for my level of expertise.
Working hours
I do not like working after hours and on Saturdays.
I wish my agency would outsource agents for after-hours
emergencies.
Nothing
Nothing at all – we are a well-oiled machine.
Nothing comes to mind. My agency is the best company
I have ever worked for.
