Meeting new people, sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm for a place, and being on the go– tour guides and travel guides introduce groups and individuals to places of interest and travel experiences. Tour guides escort people on sightseeing tours, cruises, or through public buildings, art galleries, or industrial sites. They describe points of interest and respond to questions. Many tour guides research topics related to their site such as history, art, or corporate culture. Guides often plan commentary or activities for tours for audiences of all ages. Tour guides greet and register visitors, provide printed or digital information, and often collect fees and tickets. Travel guides plan and operate long distance tours and expeditions for clients. They organize itineraries, research local attractions, and make arrangements for accommodations, dining, and access to medical care. They often lead groups to tour site locations and describe them in depth. Typically, they ensure travelers’ needs are met, pay the bills on site, and handle all paperwork. Some travel guides may fly airplanes or drive vehicles to tour sites, set up camp, and prepare meals. Some also instruct travelers—for example teaching wilderness survival skills. Skills in public speaking and customer service are essential, as is the ability to solve problems as they come up. Guides are typically responsible for the safety of groups, and may provide first aid or handle emergencies. Education qualifications vary significantly; tour and travel guides may need to be bilingual, have relevant specialized skills, a related degree or work experience. Many employers provide on-the-job training.
What they do:
Plan, organize, and conduct long-distance travel, tours, and expeditions for individuals and groups.
On the job, you would:
Arrange for tour or expedition details such as accommodations, transportation, equipment, and the availability of medical personnel.
Plan tour itineraries, applying knowledge of travel routes and destination sites.
Resolve any problems with itineraries, service, or accommodations.
Business
customer service
sales and marketing
Arts and Humanities
English language
Basic Skills
talking to others
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Social
looking for ways to help people
understanding people's reactions
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Verbal
communicate by speaking
listen and understand what people say
Ideas and Logic
notice when problems happen
order or arrange things
Attention
do two or more things at the same time
pay attention to something without being distracted
People interested in this work like activities that include leading, making decisions, and business.
They do well at jobs that need:
Concern for Others
Dependability
Attention to Detail
Cooperation
Stress Tolerance
Independence
You might use software like this on the job:
Data base user interface and query software
Microsoft Access
Travel Agent CMS
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
high school diploma/GED or some college usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are very likely in the future.