How to Study to Become a Travel Agent
Travel agents are hired by clients to sort through travel arrangement information to choose the best destination and accommodations. A travel agent will visit new destinations to determine if she will recommend the accommodations to future clients. Travel agents are experts in international travel requirements, such as securing a passport or the necessary vaccinations. If you want to become a travel agent, you will need to get experience and secure training to appeal to prospective employers.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Find a travel agent program. Travel agencies prefer to hire people who have completed a formal program of study. Legitimate programs can be found through professional associations, such as the American Society of Travel Agents (see Resources). These programs typically take six months or less to complete and result in a travel agent certificate. During training you will learn how to find the best travel arrangements, travel requirements and coordinating special groups and tours.
-
2
Get on-the-job experience. Travel agents can also study on the job. Look for travel agent receptionist or clerk positions to get your foot in the door. Tell the manager that you are interested in becoming a travel agent. After getting agency experience, request a promotion to travel agent.
-
-
3
Learn about certification requirements. During a travel agent program you will learn about the requirements for selling airlines tickets. For example, travel agents may need certification with the International Airlines Travel Agency Network to sell tickets. Ask your employer if you need to secure this certification.
-
4
Earn a bachelor's degree in travel and tourism. A bachelor's degree isn't required for this position; however, having a higher level of education will make you more attractive to employers. The industry is very competitive, which makes having an education important.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Negotiate your salary. Travel agents salaries range from $18,770 to more than $47,860 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you have formal education, salary may be higher. Don't accept the first compensation offer. Instead, make a counter offer.
Growth in the travel industry is slower than average. The industry is expected to experience a 1 percent decline from 2008 through 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This will make it more difficult to find employment.
References
- Photo Credit business colleagues preparing for business meeting image by Vladimir Melnik from Fotolia.com
