Tour Manager
Job Description:Tour managers manage the travel arrangements of holidaymakers and professional clients, and make sure everything runs smoothly.
Job Category:What you will do:
Your day-to-day duties may include:
- welcoming the tour group and telling them about the travel arrangements and stopover points
- making sure accommodation, meals and service are satisfactory
- helping with passport and immigration issues
- speaking about places on the tour (local guides may also be used)
- promoting and selling trips
- advising on sights, local restaurants and shops at each destination
- recording issues that may require follow-up after the tour
- giving advice, solving problems and dealing with emergencies like
- loss of passports or money, illness or difficulties with accommodation
- managing the travel arrangements for people on business
Skills:
You’ll need:
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- customer service skills
- to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- sensitivity and understanding
- the ability to think clearly in a crisis
- organisational skills
Entry Requirements:
Becoming a Tour Manager doesn’t typically require specific subjects, but certain skills, subjects, and qualifications can be beneficial for pursuing a career in this field. Tour Managers are responsible for coordinating and managing travel tours and ensuring that they run smoothly. Here’s a list of subjects and skills that can be helpful for becoming a Tour Manager:
- English: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for a Tour Manager. You’ll be dealing with clients, tour operators, and various service providers, so effective communication is crucial.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are important for managing budgets, expenses, and financial aspects of tours.
- Geography: Geography can be valuable, as it provides knowledge of geographical locations, climate, and cultural aspects of various destinations.
- Business Studies: This subject can provide a foundation for understanding business management, marketing, and financial aspects, which are essential for a Tour Manager.
- Foreign Languages: Proficiency in foreign languages can be an asset, especially if you plan to manage international tours.
Post School
There are no set requirements. You’ll be expected to have a good standard of general education, a friendly personality and a smart appearance. You’ll also need an interest in and knowledge of the history and culture of the places you’ll be visiting.
You could gain experience in the travel industry before moving into tour management, like as a tour guide, resort rep or travel agent.
Doing a college course in travel and tourism could also help you get started in this job.
You may need a driving licence for some jobs.
You’ll need foreign language skills if you want to work overseas.
You could get into this job through an apprenticeship.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll be responsible for the group throughout their tour, working from early morning until late in the evening, including weekends. You could be on call 24 hours a day.
You could work full-time or become freelance, working from tour to tour. The work can often be seasonal, with more jobs available during holiday periods.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could become a tour operations manager or specialise in particular areas, like food and drink breaks, adventure holidays or business travel.
You could also set up your own tour business.