The job of a travel consultant is one of the most viable options that are available these days. These consultants may be employed by organizations and travel agencies. A travel consultant is responsible for selling travel products to the end users directly or to retailers who further sell it to the consumers. The responsibilities of a travel consultant include the following:
A travel consultant also has to deal with the queries of the customers and develop travel itineraries for them. He advises people about travel destinations and the things that are needed when traveling. If working in a travel agency, a travel consultant is responsible for motivating the sales team to meet the sales targets. He is also responsible for maintaining contacts with travel agencies and various airlines operators. The travel consultant is also responsible for ensuring that all the staff members have good IT skills and organize training sessions for them. He also has to prepare and plan the tours according to the needs of the customers. He also needs to maintain client records. He might also need to evaluate the performance of his team members.
These consultants get very good working conditions. These consultants generally have flexible work timing and may even require traveling a few times. Many travel consultants are required to work online most of the time. This is because with the growing use of internet, a lot of customers prefer using the internet as a communication media.
A travel consultant needs to be at least a graduate or hold a diploma in travel management. In addition he needs to have knowledge about management principles and be proficient in computers. The travel consultant also needs to have good knowledge about the various travel destinations. You also must know about visas and travel documents.
There are several skills that a travel consultant needs to possess so that he can do his job efficiently and effectively. A travel consultant needs to have very good communication and organizational skills. He also needs to have motivational and interpersonal skills. The travel consultant must be able to coordinate with other people in the organization and be able to work as a part of the team. He must also always be focused on ensuring satisfaction of the customers. The consultant must also be able to work under stressful conditions. He also needs to possess problem solving skills and analytical skills. A travel consultant needs to be both confident and patient so that he can handle all types of customers. The consultant must also have knowledge about the current affairs and the changes taking place in the travel industry so that he keeps himself updated and is able to offer the latest information to customers.
The organizations that hire these consultants require them to undergo training. The training may either be offered within the organization or off site training may also be offered. Training for travel consultants is required so that their skills and knowledge can be improved and they are able to work more effectively.
Travel consultants have very good career prospects. They may be promoted to the level of a senior travel consultant and get more responsibilities and a better pay package. These consultants may even start their own travel agencies. Those consultants who are specialists with a specific travel destination have great future prospects.
Travel consultants get a good salary package and are also provided with several benefits like allowances, bonuses, etc. The average salary of a travel consultant ranges from $60,000 to $85,000.
The growing travel industry has led to the establishment of several organizations that offer travel services. These products can be sold only by experts who can convince the customers about the fact that what they are buying is the best option. This gives rise to the need of travel consultants or specialists who are hired by these organizations.
