Travel Jobs

How to work in the travel industry

By Shannon Tani

When it comes to employment, travel is a hot industry to enter. While most people think travel agent when they think about travel industry employment, but many other types of travel jobs exist. Some examples are tour guides, flight attendants and specialty service providers.

The downside to travel industry jobs is that it's such a popular industry that there's a lot of competition. With the proper training for a career in travel industry, you will go far. Additionally, many people who work travel jobs find that they are able to work from home, starting their own travel business.

If you are interested in travel employment, you should ask yourself the following questions:

What type of travel and tourism jobs am I interested in?
Do I want to work from home or in an office environment?
Do I have what it takes to work in a competitive industry?
How will I go about securing travel employment?

Train for travel jobs without traveling

It is very important to receive the proper training for jobs in travel. Many people falsely assume that if you enjoy traveling, you are perfect for a career in the travel industry.
Try: Penn Foster offers training to become a travel and tourism specialist. Through them, you are able to study at your own pace. TravelCampus also offers an online training program.

Find a niche for success in travel employment

By specializing in a certain group of people, such as families with small children or senior citizens, you are more likely to get dedicated clients. This is almost a requirement if you are interested in travel agent jobs.
Try: Cruise Lines International Association is a well-known professional organization in the travel industry. They offer many courses pertaining to cruising. TravelCampus offers courses in a wide variety of niches including international travel and small group travel.

Employ a travel employment agency

When you are ready to look for employment, travel employment agencies can help you find that perfect job. These recruiting firms specialize in travel industry employment and match employers with potential candidates.
Try: Travel Employment Agency offers many services to potential employees. Yours In Travel allows you to fill out an online form to start the hiring process.

Be your own boss of a home based travel agency

Many people choose to open a travel agency from the comfort of their own home.
Try: Flagship companies such as Dugan's Travels offer a convenient way for people to work in the travel industry from home. They can receive the help and training that they need to get started. Those who own home based travel businesses may be interested in listing to home based travel agent podcasts.

If you want to operate a home based travel business, check the travel agency laws within your state.
You can also find travel jobs on major employment websites, such as Monster and CareerBuilder.