Tourist Information Centre Assistant
Job Description:Tourist information centre assistants give information to visitors about transport, tourist attractions and local services and activities.
Job Category:What you will do:
In your day-to-day duties you could:
- answer customer queries in person, by phone and email
- do research using things like the internet, travel guides and timetables
- provide accurate information on things to see and do and where to stay
- make bookings for travel, entertainment, visitor attractions and accommodation
- set up displays within the centre and re-stock literature
- keep up to date with local accommodation, places to visit, activities and events
- act as an ambassador for the local area and attractions
- serve and sell souvenirs and other items from gift shop
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 thorough and pay attention to detail
- a desire to help people
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- administration & organisational skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- sensitivity and understanding
Entry Requirements:
Becoming a Tourist Information Centre Assistant doesn’t typically require specific subjects, but having a foundation in certain subjects and skills can be beneficial for pursuing a career in this field. Tourist Information Centre Assistants provide information and assistance to tourists, helping them make the most of their visits. Here’s a list of subjects and skills that can be helpful for this role:
- English: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for a Tourist Information Centre Assistant. You’ll be interacting with tourists and providing information and guidance, so effective communication is crucial.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills can be important for handling financial transactions, such as selling tickets or providing information about fees and charges.
- Geography: Knowledge of local geography and landmarks is important, as you’ll need to provide directions and recommendations to tourists.
- Foreign Languages: Proficiency in foreign languages can be a significant asset, especially if your location attracts tourists from various countries.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- applying directly
College
You could take a college course like:
- Principles of Customer Service in Leisure, Travel and Tourism (Level 2 Award in the UK)
- Diploma in Travel and Tourism (Level 2 in the UK)
- Applied Certificate in Tourism (Level 3 in the UK)
Direct Application
You could apply directly for jobs. There are no set entry requirements but it may help if you have:
- a good knowledge of the local area and its attractions and facilities
- experience of customer service
- the ability to speak one or more foreign languages
You may get tested on local knowledge and your ability to research queries.
Working Hours and Environment:
Your typical woking hours could be variable.
You could work at an information centre, at an airport, at a port or in a museum.
You may need to wear a uniform.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could become a Tourist Information Centre (TIC) supervisor or manager.
You could also move into local authority tourism departments, regional or area tourist board jobs, or to other areas of the travel and tourism industry.