Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Accomplishments
Languages
References
Hobbies and Interests
Timeline
Generic

Loraine Yvonne Van Der Westhuysen

Cape Town

Summary

Organized and driven professional with over 11 years of experience in customer service and a passion for travel. Known for strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills, fostering collaboration as a dedicated team player. Eager to leverage expertise to enhance organizational success while delivering exceptional service and support. Committed to creating positive experiences that drive customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work History

Travel Consultant

Pentravel
03.2023 - Current
  • Built strong relationships with clients through exceptional communication and personalized service.
  • Organized trips for individual, family and business travelers.
  • Worked closely with clients to understand unique needs and meet specific travel desires.
  • Maintained accurate records of bookings, payments, and client information for smooth operations and future reference.
  • Assist clients in navigating visa requirements and other travel documentation, minimizing potential issues during their trips.
  • Address unforeseen challenges during trips by coordinating alternative arrangements or providing support as needed.
  • Maintained calm demeanor and professionally managed issues in busy, high-stress situations.
  • Continuously sought opportunities for professional development by attending industry conferences, webinars, and training sessions to stay current on the latest trends in travel.
  • Increase repeat business by providing outstanding customer service and addressing client concerns promptly.
  • Coordinate both international and domestic travel accommodations for customers, arranging for airfare, hotel and rental car reservations.
  • Exceed customer service satisfaction standards by understanding and anticipating clients' expectations.
  • Increase sales through effective up-selling and cross-selling of travel packages, accommodations, and activities.

Customer Service

Stafford Brothers
02.2018 - 08.2021
  • Attending to all customer emails/phone calls and answer questions about product and services.
  • Investigating and solving customer problems.
  • Ensuring all invoices are processed before deadlines.
  • Ensuring all credits/claims are processed before deadlines.
  • Dealing with logistics companies to make sure orders are delivered on time.
  • Perform general administrative tasks (copying and filing)
  • Managed and prioritized customer service requests to achieve prompt resolution.
  • Strengthened client relationships through regular communication and exceptional customer service.
  • Exceed performance targets by consistently providing exceptional customer service experiences.
  • Managed high call volume while maintaining exceptional customer service standards.

Sales

Browns the Diamond Store
05.2013 - 11.2017
  • Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction through excellent sales services.
  • Handling all customer transactions
  • Maintaining outstanding store conditions and visual merchandising standards
  • Providing in-depth product information.
  • Ensure all admin such as filing and emails are up to date.
  • Listen attentively to customers' needs and use my skills and knowledge to assist with a perfect solution or product.
  • Maintain a positive and inviting attitude at all times.
  • Increased sales revenue by establishing strong relationships with clients and implementing effective sales strategies.
  • Provided positive first impressions to welcome existing, new, and potential customers.
  • Solved customer challenges by offering relevant products and services.

Customer Service Agent

Airlink
03.2012 - 04.2013
  • Greeting and welcoming passengers and responding to questions.
  • Checking in baggage and assisting with lost baggage.
  • Making sure turn-around time runs smoothly.
  • Manning the arrival and departure gate
  • Advising passengers on their flights, giving updates and assisting special needs passengers.
  • Ensure that I am well-groomed and polite at all times.
  • Meet all deadlines and perform problem-solving skills.

Education

Certificates - Travel Agent

Amadeus
Cape Town, South Africa
05-2023

Certificates - Customer Service

Airlink Airline
04.2013

Diploma - Cabin Crew

Big Sky Aviation
03.2012

High School Diploma -

Wonderfontein High
12.2007

Skills

  • Amadeus / Ticketing / GDS expertise
  • Critical thinking
  • Strong communication skills
  • Travel industry expertise
  • Travel research
  • Exceptional customer service
  • Global travel experience
  • Administrative tasks
  • High volume environments
  • Customer service
  • International and domestic travel
  • Language proficiency

Accomplishments

  • Has been the top booking agent at Pentravel for 2024 due to exceptional service and customer relationship building skills.
  • Awarded a travel educational for being one of the top 5 travel consultants, in the organization for 2024
  • Awarded a travel educational for being one of the top 10 travel consultants, in the organization for 2023

Languages

English - Fluent
Afrikaans - Native

References

References available on request.

Hobbies and Interests

Action Netball, Hiking, Traveling, Discovering new places

Timeline

Travel Consultant

Pentravel
03.2023 - Current

Customer Service

Stafford Brothers
02.2018 - 08.2021

Sales

Browns the Diamond Store
05.2013 - 11.2017

Customer Service Agent

Airlink
03.2012 - 04.2013

Certificates - Travel Agent

Amadeus

Certificates - Customer Service

Airlink Airline

Diploma - Cabin Crew

Big Sky Aviation

High School Diploma -

Wonderfontein High
Loraine Yvonne Van Der Westhuysen