Despite the overwhelming coverage of bad economic news so far in 2009, one message is slowly filtering through to the astute traveler— there are incredible deals out there. TripAtlas.com, who lays claim to be the world's largest travel portal, has launched a new lead generation system called TripAtlas Pro that can bring all those consumers who actually want to book a trip to travel agents.
"TripAtlas Pro is not only a directory profile but an entire platform built specifically for the travel professional," said Travis Snelling, general manager for TripAtlas.com. "TripAtlas Pro empowers travel agents and other travel professionals to compete against the big online travel agents (OTAs) in the same arena—online— but still maintains the human element and expertise through social interaction and professional consultation." TripAtlas.com has a directory of more than 104,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Here's how TripAtlas Pro works: TripAtlas Pros receive a daily e-mail that lists the most recent leads available to them and they can sign-in to an exclusive, Pros-only area where they can view and respond to new and relevant leads from consumers around the world.
When a consumer submits a quote request, TripAtlas Pros can bid on the business. The consumer and Pro can then enter into a secure and private online discussion that is accessible to only the agent and consumer. Once the consumer accepts the offer, they won't receive any other offers from other pros.
Unlike other lead generating systems, TripAtlas.com does not take any commissions or interfere with the business between the consumer and the Pro. Its function is to provide the introduction and link in a safe, secure and non-pressured environment for the transaction to take place.
TripAtlas.com says it has offered Company Profiles for travel professionals for over a year. Those agents who have a company profile will be upgraded to TripAtlas Pro free of charge. One of the benefits of a company profile is that agents can update their profile in real time, which allows them to post special offers, products and services, and update it as often as they would like. If a consumer contacts a Pro directly from their profile, the lead will still be available to the Pro the same way but they can sort their leads by "All Leads" versus "Just My Leads."
Another key benefit to TripAtlas Pro is access to an exclusive Pro Forum to discuss techniques and tips, share news and information and trade services with other Pros, the company says.
The minimal cost to become a TripAtlas Pro and access this revenue generating lead system and profile is $395 a year. Upon signing up, Pros automatically receive 30 credits. Bidding on a lead currently costs one credit (which is just the initial contact - no additional credits for further communication with the same consumer). More credits can be purchased online using the secure e-commerce gateway. Credits start at 99 cents and can be purchased in bulk at a volume price. Travel professionals interested in learning more about TripAtlas Pro or to sign-up online can visit www.tripatlas.com/pro.