Sunday 22 September 2013

Travel agents play an integral role in the travel industry, serving individual travelers, groups and businesses. A combination of experience and training increases your chances of becoming a travel agent. Working in the travel industry offers perks like travel discounts, but travel agent opportunities are competitive and limited because of increased Internet booking and difficult economic times.

Training

    Advanced training or degrees set you apart when looking for a travel agent position. A travel agent training program through a community college or vocational school is the minimum schooling for the career. You learn sales and marketing techniques, booking procedures, documentation requirements and general geography. For an advanced degree, a travel and tourism bachelor's degree is an option. Staying current on travel trends and industry changes is key to success with savvy travelers. If you have a particular travel agency in mind, check on its minimum hiring requirements to help you plan your training.

Skills

    Practical skills bridge the gap between the travel agent's schooling and the work world. Travel agents need a basic understanding of travel and geography and the distinct tourism opportunities in different areas. This allows the agent to advise clients and help them make a decision on their final destination. You also need a strong sense of organization and detail to ensure each client's trip is well planned. The direct interaction with customers requires strong communication skills and the ability to relate to a diverse group of people.

Job Duties

    Travel agents help clients decide where to go and what to do at their chosen destination. She books all aspects of the trip for individual clients, including airfare, hotel, rental cars, cruises, tours and other entertainment. This requires coordination of these elements to ensure the time frame works. For example, when booking a cruise for clients, she needs to coordinate the flight to account for possible delays to ensure the clients reach the cruise ship before departure. She informs clients about the requirements for traveling if the trip is to another country. Travel agents sometimes work for tour companies or resorts to create and market packages. The job involves long hours at a desk working on a computer to make travel arrangements. Talking on the phone and completing paperwork also are job duties.

Benefits

    Agents passionate about travel get the chance to work in the field and share their passion and expertise with clients. In addition to the usual benefits, like insurance and time off, a travel agent typically receives reduced rates on travel services, even if the trip is personal. Business travel, such as a trip to a destination to learn about it, also is reduced and sometimes free. For example, if a resort wants to work with an agent to promote a travel package, the agent may receive a free or cheap trip there to check it out.

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