Connect and get in touch with HollyDay Travel

• Email

• Instagram

• Facebook

• LinkedIn

People and Links mentioned in this episode:

• TIME Programme - get in touch with TIME Programme at time@travelindustrymentor.com.au

• Matt Lewis - TIME Programme mentor

• Onlinejobs.ph

• Airwallex

• Sonia Leicester

EPISODE SUMMARY

Business Growth Challenge

First Hire - Usha (Sri Lanka)

• Initial role: Admin tasks, itinerary building, invoicing, email responses
• Current role: Team leader, all-rounder, Europe specialist, client phone support

Second Hire - Uresha (Sri Lanka)

• Role: Europe specialist, client relations, detailed reporting

Third Hire - Mary (Philippines)

• Role: Bookkeeper and tax agent

Fourth Hire - Tracy (Philippines)

• Role: Content and marketing manager

Fifth Hire - Bonn (Philippines)

• Role: Opening to close Australian hours, airfare specialist

Hiring Platforms and Methods

• Personal connections: Most successful hires through recommendations
• OnlineJobs.ph: Mixed results, required extensive filtering
• Requirements: Own laptops, reliable internet, home office setup
• Holly provides: Desks, proper screens, equipment for home offices

Team Management Structure

Daily Operations

Company Culture

Communication and Recognition

Financial and Legal Structure

Benefits of Remote Team

• Cost effectiveness: Significantly lower wages than Australian employees
• Dedication: Exceptional commitment and work ethic
• Flexibility: Mutual flexibility for emergencies, family needs, extended hours
• Customer service: Incredible client relationships and service quality
• Time freedom: Holly focuses on client relationship building and business growth

Challenges and Realities

• Staff turnover: 3 team members didn't work out over the years
• Training investment: Initial time investment required for proper training
• Interview process: Can be lengthy and challenging to find right fit
• Trial periods: Probationary periods essential for both parties

Alternative Options

• Australian agencies: Companies that handle finding, interviewing, and managing VAs
• Office spaces: Can hire office space in Philippines for team
• Third-party management: Companies that handle all HR and management aspects
• Trade-offs: More expensive but less hands-on management required

Training and Development

• Sonja Leicester: Travel Trainer provided customer service training
• On-the-job training: Continuous skill development

Final Advice

• Just do it: Overcome fear and take the leap
• Time investment: Initial training time pays long-term dividends
• Focus shift: Allows business owner to focus on what they love most
• Support available: Holly offers to share resources and company recommendations
• Risk worth taking: Essential for business growth and personal freedom