Shannon Cunningham is a Louisiana native, born and raised. Her favorite place to visit is New Orleans, and she loves her football- especially the LSU Tigers and New Orleans Saints! Shannon is a mother to her son Logan, and three fur babies: Breesy, Nola, and Sammy. Most Friday nights you will find her in the kitchen with her personal chef/hubby cooking up something yummy!
Q: When did you start working at GTN and what is your role within the company?
A:I started working for GTN in April of 2021 however, I have been with GTN since the beginning. I was one of their Independent Consultants and have had the chance to watch the company grow over the past few years. It has truly been so exciting to watch. I am now, the Director of Membership here at GTN. I know what it’s like to be on the IC side of the business. This experience helps me in my current role as I want to ensure we are always providing the highest level of service to our members.
Q: What do you love most about working at GTN?
A:I love the collaboration within the GTN team. I love how creative we are and that we think outside of the box to be a more modern host agency. I worked as an entrepreneur for more than 20 years. Now, being an “intrapreneur" is equally as satisfying with our team of brilliant and resourceful team members. Also, I love the fact that we keep our network so involved. Being a part of a close-nit community is very rewarding and fulfilling.
Q: What is the most important thing you think someone should know before starting their career as a travel advisor?
A:I think the most important thing to know is that this is so much more than just booking a trip. In fact, that is less than half of the job of an advisor. People need to realize that this is a business and not just a job. Learning how to run a successful business is just as important as learning the travel aspect of this career.
Q: What advice you would give to someone who is thinking about starting their career as a travel advisor, but it just very unsure where to start?
A:Research and interview. A LOT. Research host agencies, their members, their benefits, and their culture. Interview the host agencies, ask for referrals, ask questions and make sure you are a good fit for each other. This is so important because a host agency is the foundation of an advisor’s business. The more questions you ask, the better.
Q: Now I have to ask, what is your travel must-have?
A:Oh, my jean jacket with pockets! I freeze on flights, so this keeps me warm. Plus the pockets allow easy access to my phone, passport, and headphones.
Q: To end on a fun note, where is one place you haven’t traveled to yet that has been on your bucket list for some time?
A:That would be Italy and when I do go there, I can’t just go for work, I have to be able to bring my hubby with me. Neither of us have been, and he made me promise I wouldn’t go there without him!
