Selling Power: Homeworking in Tel Aviv

Is it difficult selling holidays to customers based in the UK when you work abroad?

I’m only bonded to sell to UK customers and, as all of my work is done either online or over the phone, I still provide the highest possible customer service to all my clients. I also have a local number for clients to call so sometimes they don’t even realise that I’m not based in the UK.

Is your working life different to how it was in the UK?

This has been the best change. Being a homeworker can be as flexible as you want it to be, you get out as much as you put in. Because of the two-hour time difference between the UK and Israel, I can start work at 11am, which gives me extra time in the mornings to use as I want, maybe a shopping trip into Tel Aviv or a couple of hours at the beach. I have always worked hard, but now I can break it up. For instance, I can work in the mornings, take the afternoon off and continue in the evenings. It gives me time for other things, like spending time with my children.

Do you have any tips for agents who are considering moving abroad to work remotely?

Think about everything. Assume that if you need the correct information, you are the only one capable of getting it. Speak to anyone and everyone who has had similar experiences and make lists.

You will need to think about key things such as communication, phone lines, internet access, setting up your office, UK and foreign taxation laws, UK and local accountancy services depending on the visa status, where you will be filling taxes, insurance, marketing, sales, work-life balance... the list can go on and on. Because I spent a long time in the preparation phase it made a huge difference when we finally got here. The office (laptop and a VOIP phone) was set up within 24 hours of arriving and I was able to do my first deal within three days.

How do you generate sales leads from Israel?

My business has been predominantly based on building relationships with my clients over a long period of time. Developing a trusting relationship has enabled me to achieve 85-90% sales figures for repeat and referred business. I am very active on social media and have a good reputation. I also have the option of generating leads from our Holidaysplease database, which I have found to be invaluable over the past 10 years.

Are you able to still attend travel industry events and conferences?

When I was in London I attended as many as possible, but this year’s ITT was a no-brainer as it was in Tel Aviv and it has allowed me to grow my network within the industry. I also try to attend all the Holidaysplease conferences in the UK.

• Ruth is celebrating 10 years with Holidaysplease this year so she is donating to her nominated charity, Great Ormond Street Hospital, for every person booked in 2016. Holidaysplease is also matching her £1 for £1.