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Travel Consultant

Also known as Travel Agent.

Travel consultants provide information, advice and booking services for people wishing to travel.

Travel consultants in large organisations may specialise in particular areas such as business, international or domestic travel.

Ongoing learning is important to those working in the industry. Most travel consultants work on a commission basis.

They work long hours including weekends, often working 10-hour days.

Travel consultants may also work in call centres.

TASKS

Travel consultants may perform the following tasks:

provide literature and information to clients concerning local, interstate and international tours, travel routes, accommodation, local customs, fares, and travel regulations
discuss client requirements and advise on suitable options
plan, prepare and cost itineraries (travel plans) for clients
make travel, accommodation and related bookings
confirm bookings and notify clients of luggage limits and insurance, medical, passport, visa and currency requirements
issue tickets for travel, accommodation vouchers and all relevant documentation
collect payments and maintain records of transactions
assist with changes to travel arrangements and bookings where required

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

good communication skills
strong customer focus
good organisational skills
strong computer and written skills
able to work as part of a team
high level of personal presentation
able to work under pressure
enjoy working with people
strong sales focus

Good Outlook for this career!

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a travel consultant without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications, skills or experience in office work, retail or tourism.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in travel, tourism or travel and tourism. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a travel consultant through a traineeship in Travel, Tourism or Travel and Tourism.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Tourism, Travel and Hospitality Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

Knowledge of a second language is highly desirable. Most people in the travel industry have also travelled extensively.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Travel consultants are employed by travel agencies, government tourist bureaus, tourism wholesalers and airline and shipping companies. Some travel consultants set up their own businesses. Job opportunities depend on the level of tourism activity.