We recently held a panel discussion on this topic moderated by JoAnne Mitchell, Owner of Effective Training & Communications Plus, with three experts in travel and travel insurance:
- Andre Morneau, Vice-President OTIP/TWIS
- Lucy Hathaway, Chief Sales Officer, Allianz Global Assistance Canada
- Haley Whitelaw, Travel Industry Expert and Tourism Professor, Cobblestone Freeway
While many brokers are licensed to sell travel insurance, they might not have made it a priority to sell it. As countries start to allow travel again and new regulations are put in place, now is an ideal time for brokers to refresh their knowledge and skills in this area.
“Travelers may need something new—a vaccine passport showing proof of a Covid-19 vaccination,” said JoAnne. “Some countries will also require proof of valid travel insurance before allowing travelers into their country. Travel insurance might be a new or revitalized product for brokers to focus on.”
Haley articulated Canadians’ desire to go abroad. “Consumer demand is pent up from this inability to travel and I expect there will be a surge once the Canadian government lifts its current travel advisory.”
Andre echoed this point, highlighting an economic indicator of the trend. “Air Canada’s stock was up 32% in the last month, so there’s some thinking out there that there’s light at the end of the tunnel. So get prepared.”
This consumer demand and the vast uncertainty that go with it are the perfect circumstances for brokers to use their expertise to help their clients.
“The biggest impact to a travel experience is the constant change in rules and regulations,” said Lucy. “This has created a really volatile environment for travelers. What we’re finding is that they really need someone to talk through their questions and concerns before they plan their trip.”
If you’d like to learn more about this topic, the panel discussion is now available in our eLearning Library, free of charge for IBAO Members.
