A copy of an internal communication from YTB was posted as a comment on this blog and I felt it was important to bring it to the forefront. I applaud YTB for taking this stance. I also would say that it is a shame that it really needed to be said in any event.
This begins to address one of the concerns the "traditional" agents have with the MLM business model. It is progress, but there is a long way to go. Too bad it does not apply to Rufus and Earl from the farm on YouTube. I have said that if I were Coach, Scott and Kim, I would be livid that some of these people are representing "my" product. I think they are beginning to understand.
Like any business that utilizes independent contractors, YTB has no legal right to dictate anything in terms of how they run their business. When they begin to impose rules, the ICs become employees. The only recourse YTB has is to terminate the agreement with an offending RTA. ANd then you have a business decision to make--lose the RTA revenue or turn the other cheek.
Congrats to YTB for making a stand, I hope that you have the desire to enforce it. (This info was copied from a comment on another post. I have no verification if it is authentic, complete or accurate--but I have no reason to doubt it either.)
YTB TRAVEL NETWORK TRADE SHOW GUIDELINES
VERY IMPORTANT: YOU ARE REPRESENTING YTB!
TRAVEL TRADE SHOW ATTENDEES
ARE YOUR PEERS, NOT PROSPECTS.
Travel Trade Shows are non-solicitation events and selling of advertising, products, or services by agent delegates is prohibited.
Spouses or guests are not permitted unless they are a bona fide home-based travel agent. Event management reserves the right to qualify all registrants and allow or prohibit anyone from attending the show who does not fit the travel agent criteria.
Dress code is business casual. No t-shirts are permitted, logo or otherwise. Please do not wear blue jeans or shorts.
Professionalism and ethical behavior is expected of all RTAs attending Travel Trade Show events. No marketing is permitted by agent delegates. Be sure to be respectful of travel suppliers and other attendees. Exhibit a positive attitude towards suppliers and their products. Remember that your behavior is a direct reflection of YTB and any infraction of the above policies may harm YTB and your teammates. Violations will be addressed by YTB Corporate.
Thank you to everyone for your cooperation as we strive to become the largest travel agency in the world!
