The travel industry is seeing a surge of fresh talent. More and more individuals are stepping into the role of travel advisor, often bringing creative ideas, enthusiasm, and a modern approach to the profession. And while this growth is exciting, it also raises a key question for established advisors: how do we support new talent without losing ground ourselves?

The answer? Mentorship.

Why Mentorship Matters Now More Than Ever

As the travel advisor community expands, so does the diversity of business models, service philosophies, and client approaches. Without proper guidance, newer advisors may unknowingly present an unpolished image of the profession, leading to misconceptions about the industry’s professionalism and value.

But with the right mentorship, we can change that. Here’s how:

• Mentorship elevates the entire industry. When new advisors are equipped with systems, strategy, and support, they’re more likely to succeed and more likely to represent the profession well.
• It cures imposter syndrome. For mentors and mentees alike, having structured conversations and exchanging insights boosts confidence.
• It keeps seasoned advisors inspired. Talking with newer advisors often re-energizes your own work, helping you see things through fresh eyes.

“When you invest in your business and mentor someone else, it takes that imposter syndrome and halves it.”

The Right Way to Be a Mentor

You don’t have to be a tenured advisor to provide mentorship. In fact, some of the most impactful insights come from peer-to-peer relationships or second-act advisors who bring transferable skills from other industries. Whether you’re formally mentoring through a host agency program or simply supporting someone in your network, here are best practices:

Set Clear Boundaries

Mentorship works best when expectations are communicated early. That means outlining preferred communication channels, setting a call cadence (bi-weekly works well), and being honest about your availability. Clear is kind.

Encourage Mutual Investment

Mentorship should be a two-way street. Mentees should come prepared with questions and respect the mentor’s time. Mentors, meanwhile, benefit by staying open to fresh perspectives and recognizing the value of the exchange.

Don’t Confuse Mentorship with Coaching

Mentorship is about support and guidance. Coaching is a paid service with structured deliverables and systems. Both are valuable, but they serve different purposes. Be transparent about what you can offer and what you can’t.

Overcoming the Hazing Mentality

There’s an outdated mindset in some corners of the industry that new advisors need to “pay their dues.” But let’s be honest: that thinking is counterproductive. We all started somewhere, and if we truly want to elevate the reputation of travel advisors, it starts with helping others succeed.

If you’ve ever felt like you had to learn the hard way, mentoring is your chance to change that for someone else. Even a 15-minute call can make a difference.

When (and Why) to Say Yes to Mentoring

Mentorship doesn’t have to mean taking on a huge time commitment. Here are small but powerful ways to start:

• Answer a question in your host agency or Niche community group
• Offer a new advisor one call to talk through fee structures or systems
• Share a template, checklist, or tip that changed your business

If you do decide to take on a regular mentee, start with structure. Boundaries make the relationship sustainable and rewarding.

“There is an opportunity cost to mentoring—but there is also an incredible upside.”

A Resource Every Mentor Should Share

If you’re mentoring a newer advisor and want to equip them with a strong foundation, consider pointing them toward The Travel Business Launch Lab. This turnkey solution helps new advisors launch confidently with systems and strategies already in place.

The Bottom Line

Mentorship isn’t just a nice-to-have. In today’s competitive industry, it’s an essential part of growth for new advisors, for seasoned professionals, and for the travel community at large.

When we give our time and insights generously (with structure and boundaries), everyone wins.