ENTRY

Is usually through joining a travel agency or a tour operating company-or for a position in a government department or corporation, by answering the advertisements that appear from time to time in the newspapers. 

Private sector companies are more flexible in their requirements, seeking alertness, aptitude and interest in candidates, rather than academic achievement. On-the- job training is provided to new entrants once they are hired. However, in an increasingly competitive field, a basic diploma in travel and tourism management can be of advantage. In general, minimum requirements for entry into this industry are: 

Upto Tourist Guide Level

School-leaving (10+2) certificate of examination and fluency in the spoken word. 

For higher positions

A graduate degree in any discipline. Specialization in history of art and architecture; geography; archaeology or related subjects is an asset, as is the knowledge of one or more foreign languages.

Those applying for government posts must pass a written test, personal interview and medical examination before being selected.

CAREER LEVELS

A career in travel and tourism would involve working at the following levels:

COUNTER CLERK/COUNTER ASSISTANT

Physically responsible for making out tickets, itineraries, reservations and advising clients on routes and costings.

SENIOR ASSISTANT

Supervises work of counter clerks. 

JUNIOR EXECUTIVE

Coordinates counter work and could be involved with sales and marketing of agency services. 

DISTRICT SALES MANAGER

Deals with marketing and sales of agency services within a specified area or district.

DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER

Assists general manager in the administration of the agency or department.

GENERAL MANAGER

Responsible for the management of the agency or, in case of larger companies, one or more of its departments.

VICE PRESIDENT

Executive head of the agency. Formulates policy in consultation with managers. Answerable to the board of directors. Responsible for plans and projections, concerning development and expansion of agency services.