River City Six: Diane McVicker
The Vacation Store & The Cruise Company (www.TheCruiseCompany.com) is Omaha’s premier travel provider, celebrating over 30 years in business. Diane McVicker is a Leisure Travel Specialist with The Vacation Store & The Cruise Company.
Tell us a little about your business.
The Vacation Store & The Cruise Company is such a great job! We are a full-service agency selling cruises, airline tickets, hotel and car rental and custom vacations worldwide. What fun it is to get to know people and their likes and help make people’s dream vacation a reality!
How did you get started in the business?
It’s almost a little embarrassing! I worked evenings in my early jobs. During the day on Christmas season, I was home watching The Love Boat while making Christmas decorations. I thought to myself, “I want to do something like that” and so I did!
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Understanding the needs of the vacationer. They are never the same, as everyone’s vision of their ideal getaway is unique. There is a great deal of listening and getting to know your clients to make sure their wants and needs are met.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
There have been so many! Knowing how many wonderful clients have been with me for the last 35 years and continue to come back, speaks volumes.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Jump in the car for a road trip! I love to be spontaneous and I’ll go just about anywhere. You know what they say…what happens on the road, stays on the road!
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
On top of my job at The Vacation Store & The Cruise Company, I have another full-time job of caring for my parents who both have Alzheimer’s. This is extremely time-consuming but also very rewarding at the same time.
What are you the most proud of?
My greatest accomplishment by far is raising a beautiful, loving daughter who makes me proud every single day.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Listen! I have a lot of energy and tend to get carried away in conversation. Therefore, when this was brought to my attention, I was surprised but very appreciative. Sometimes you just need to stop and listen.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Passionate (both in my work and in my personal life).
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Real estate. My father was wildly successful and I believe I could have been as well. It’s all about the personality. You never know; it’s never too late to reinvent yourself and try something new.
What is your favorite TV show?
Right now, it would have to be The Walking Dead. I never miss it!
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Spezia. It’s always SO good.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Robert Redford. Not only is he a great actor but he seems to be a decent human being. He’s also pretty easy on the eyes!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
You can reach me directly at (402) 339-6800 / (402) 339-6803 / (800) 289-5505 / Email: Diane@TheCruiseCompany.com. Or stop in to see me at 14137 Q Street. Omaha, NE 68137. Make sure to check out our website at www.TheCruiseCompany.com too!
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