What does a Travel Agent do?
A Travel Agent offers consulting services and advice to prospective travellers. They advise clients about travel destinations they are considering to help them make the right choices for their needs and budget. They are also responsible for explaining travel restrictions, rules, or guidelines to their clients. They can be employed by travel companies, airlines, or hotel chains, or they can function as independent contractors.
Travel Agent skills and qualifications
A Travel Agent coordinates the perfect travel options for their clients. Here are some of the skills and qualifications required for the role:
- Exceptional knowledge of the travel industry
- Excellent customer service skills
- Ability to multitask
- Extremely organized
- Strong communication skills, both oral and written
- Outstanding attention to detail
- Excellent computer management skills
Travel Agent experience requirements
A Travel Agent does not generally need experience. However, experience in a customer service-related position is generally considered an asset.
Travel Agent education and training requirements
A Travel Agent usually possesses a secondary school diploma. A college diploma in Travel or Tourism is considered an asset, and having formal training as a Travel Agent will make the candidate stand out for the position. In British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Quebec, Ontario, and Saskatchewan, candidates must have received their Travel Agent certification from the regulatory body in their province. Some agencies will require candidates to also have their Canadian Institute of Travel Counsellors (CITC) certification.
Travel Agent salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Travel Agent in Canada is $47,156 per year. This will vary based on geographical location, the type of industry employing the candidate, and their level of experience.
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