This was originally posted on Inspirery.com and can be read in it’s entirety here.
Randi Glazer has contributed a great deal to the field of international travel and has continued to preach the importance of continued mentoring for those just beginning their career in travel. Glazer is also a frequent contributor to a wide range of travel industry publications and has written several articles and books across a full spectrum of subjects relevant to not just travel professionals but also anyone working in the corporate realm.
Clearly possessing the skills to adeptly lead a team of professionals, Glazer wisely sought the guidance of her most experienced colleagues and constantly posed questions regarding the most efficient and effective methods for performing her varied professional responsibilities. Due to this practice, Glazer was able to benefit significantly from the mentor-mentee relationships she established and has since worked diligently to share all she has learned with anyone willing to listen.
As an avid traveler and author, Glazer has made it a goal to make travel professionals the most thoroughly informed group of professionals in any industry. With the release of her most recent book, Glazer’s thoughtful insights on navigating every aspect of a career in any industry are available on a widespread basis and can assist newcomers as they seek to develop a better understanding of how to consistently excel in whatever professional role they happen to occupy.
How did you get started traveling? What inspired you to start writing about travel?
After having the opportunity to work abroad, I felt drawn to travel and the unique opportunity it represented. I started with the goal of sharing my knowledge and expertise with others as soon as the opportunity presented itself.
When you were starting, was there ever a time you doubted yourself? If so, how did you handle that?
I wanted to share my expertise and never felt doubt in what I knew or wanted to share.
How did you start writing about travel?
I reached out to several websites and let them know how I might be able to assist them.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works?
I have developed a targeted approach to marketing.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
When one considers the inherent complexities associated with international travel — often involves working within incredibly difficult circumstances, so I am always faced with decisions that require thorough evaluation and analysis in order to achieve the best possible outcome.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
I have been successful because I know how to take calculated risks and can adapt to a variety of circumstances.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
The first time I was approached for my professional advice was especially gratifying, particularly since I had benefited so much from the mentoring I received early in my own career.
What does the future hold for you? What are you most excited about?
Continuing to travel the world and write about it excites me every day. I love going to new places, seeing new things and learning along the way.
What business books have inspired you?
I felt inspired by many of the ideas and concepts expressed in Guy Kawasaki’s “Enchantment,” and I am also quite fond of Sheryl Sandberg’s work as well.
What is a recent purchase you have made that’s helped you most?
Software and staying current with available software is of paramount importance to doing business in any field.
What is one aspect of travel that you would like to see change?
There was a time when companies invested in training and employee development, but that kind of investment is fading away because it has become so rare that any one employee stays with the same company for several decades. I’d like to see a greater focus on mentoring and training due to the simple fact that the whole industry will be much better off as a result.
