ASTA has released the results of its 2009 Labor and Compensation Report, which reveals that while the economic slowdown has eased the hiring crisis for the travel agency industry, there is still a strong demand for qualified agents. The study also revealed that the average starting salary for an agent with an ASTA member agency is less than $20,000 and the average agent salary is less than $30,000.
The report includes benchmarking data on compensation packages, hiring practices, salary ranges and benefits.
"As the recovery continues, it's expected that there will be more demand than supply for travel agents, whether they are new to the industry or have years of experience," said ASTA President and Chair Chris Russo.
"The data contained in this report can help agencies determine where they stand with respect to other agencies when it comes to the salaries and benefits they offer and make sure they remain competitive in order to attract the best talent."
Other findings from the report include:
· While 2008 saw an increase in commission-only employee compensation, that trend reversed in 2009 with approximately 30% of respondents reporting that they offered employees compensation based on both salary and commission. Commission-only compensation dropped to 19% in 2009 from 29% in 2008.
· The average salary for a travel agent is $29,022 whereas the average starting salary is $19,299.
· 75% of responding agencies still have employees or independent contractors. Of those currently operating without employees, more than half plan to re-hire when the economy rebounds.
· Most agencies expect both the number of employees or independent contractors and their salaries to remain steady.
Survey data was collected through the 2009 ASTA Research Family. The ASTA Research Family is comprised of a representative sample of ASTA member travel agency owners and managers.
