SHINE’ing the Spotlight on… Michelle Fleet

Michelle, you’ve had an exciting career to date and have worked in the travel industry throughout this time… tell us about your journey?

What a journey it has been. One minute I was straight out of school following my dreams to travel the world and educate myself  .. next minute we are three decades later living in a completely different world as we know it today

You have always delivered the highest level of customer service, can you share three tips on how people can turns their customers into raving fans?

I HAVE Always been popular with my clients and I  put it down to taking an interest in their lives;
their first babies name their fur babies name or just by listening to them, whether it be about their rose garden to their break ups, I tentatively listen and I always recall something when we touch base.

I NEVER over promise and under deliver. By OVER DELIVERING I make my customers feel special
Ie, things such as remembering it’s an anniversary, providing a room upgrade, a late check out or even a dinner at the hotel where they are staying.

Communication is extremely important – effective communication stops barriers and opens so many doors. By communicating effectively you find out more about the customers needs and what’s important to them. Mostly people have an idea of what they want so it’s important to talk to them, ask questions, relay past experiences etc. Referral business  is second to none , and I like to show my appreciation to those who referred people through to me. A thank you, an email, a bottle of wine… often it’s the small things that mean a lot.

What career or personal achievement are you most proud of?

I have had many achievements throughout my career.  I’ve been awarded for sales and been a Global Star, I personally feel proud when I have pulled together people for an event.

How have your dealt with the current Covid challenges which have impacted so many in  our great industry? Have you had to diversify?

I create small day tours for our clients with adventures to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, visiting wineries exploring our local food shops in Maleny, Montville etc. These are exclusive Day Tours for up to 22 people and to date we have also taken people to Fraser Island  and on a Mystery Tour. We have a Wetlands one coming up at the end of February, and I am focusing on creating cooking and Girl’s Day Out’ tours. The purpose is to encourage locals to book with local travel agents. I enjoy get togethers with professional women once every six weeks who are my sister tribe where we support and encourage each other and I like to focus on referring and recommending other local businesses when required, on a community board, during a conversation or just in passing. Women supporting women is important to me and we get to enjoy a nice date lunch whilst keeping everyone up to date with each of our businesses and what is currently happening.

And what’s next on the agenda for Michelle Fleet?

SUNSHINE COAST DELUXE POP UP PICNICS is my new venture. I created this because creating memories and bringing people together is my A game – I LOVE IT. Moving into this space is hard and competitive but the Sunshine Coast people are being very supportive, and I have received lots of referrals which I appreciate.

Favourite food and why?

Oysters – not only are they decadent –  they’re one of the most sustainable things to eat, and certainly the most sustainable to come from the sea.

What’s one thing that you do for yourself every day?

I try and go for a walk or bike ride even if it’s only for 30 minutes.

Where is the best place you have travelled to in the world and why? 

This is always the hardest question I have been asked throughout my career  as there are many many wonderful favourites that I just cannot compare of pick a favourite.

If I had to pick, it would have to be the ALASKAN WILDERNESS – Right in the heart of Alaska. I LOVE the colder climates around the world, the ambiance of small communities, warm fires warm food and massive wild, open spaces, ancient forests, soaring mountains and especially the rugged, untamed beauty of Alaska.

To find out more about Michelle head to:

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-fleet-fleety01/

Facebook
@SunshineCoastDeluxePopUpPicnics