In this week's advisor stories we meet Jim Kennedy, a seasoned professional with over 45 years of experience in the travel industry, including a decade dedicated to the cruise business. Originally from Boston, Jim has spent around 50 years in Canada, where he embarked on a career that began in the airline industry. He shares his journey from starting as a "ramp rat" handling baggage to becoming a training instructor focused on customer service, retention, and appreciation across various sectors like airlines, hotels, government travel, and eventually joining Expedia.
Jim’s passion for travel, especially cruises, shines through as he talks about how his personal experiences enhance his ability to advise clients effectively. He positions himself as a concierge, overseeing every aspect of his clients' travel experiences from planning to their return home. His dedication is evident as he offers a 24-hour contact line for any issues during their travels.
The video also delves into Jim’s adaptability and continuous learning, highlighting his efforts to stay updated with technology and tools like Stratify and Tern to enhance his presentations and client interactions. Despite the challenges of adapting to new technology with age, Jim emphasizes the importance of embracing these tools to improve efficiency and client engagement.
Jim's story is not just about his extensive experience in travel and cruises but also about his commitment to personal growth, customer service, and adapting to changing technologies to provide the best experience for his clients. His insights are valuable for anyone in the travel industry, offering lessons in customer service, adaptability, and the importance of lifelong learning.