Agents and Consultants in Different Industries
A consultant is not an agent. Agents book trips using GDS, while consultants use personal contacts. Agents find what clients want; consultants collaborate to decide. Agents make hotel reservations via computer. Consultants work directly with a hotel’s team.
Consultants provide advice without guaranteeing outcomes, unlike agents who focus more on results and ask for fees upfront. Consultants charge for guidance and do not typically provide much post-visa support.
By definition, a contractor is an agent undertaking something for another. But a consultant can’t do everything an agency can.
Travel consultants plan trips and provide advice tailored to each client, using their firsthand experience and knowledge from courses.
A real estate agent helps buy or sell property and changes roles depending on whether they assist a buyer or a seller. If helping a seller, they list properties online to reach more buyers.
A real estate consultant’s objectives vary by situation, such as providing an expert, unbiased opinion on an investment. With your input, a consultant helps determine primary and secondary objectives.
Understanding the Consultant Role
What is a consultant classified as? A consultant provides expert advice in a specialized field to clients, often on a temporary basis. They analyze issues and offer strategies and solutions. Their role is to serve as an objective, outside expert.
Consultants have specialized knowledge from education and experience. They collaborate with clients to understand needs and determine goals.
Consultants typically do not guarantee specific results but provide analysis and advice to help clients achieve objectives. Their fees reflect the value of expertise.
Agency vs Consultant
What is the difference between an agency and a consultant? An agency executes specific tasks, often with multiple specialists, and delivers tangible work products to clients. Consulting, conversely, is individualized guidance on strategy.
Consultants bring an outside perspective to analyze operations and boost efficiency. Their labor fills demand for focused expertise.