Travel Agency

[cmcconville9]

I am really keen to get into Travel Agency but with no experience. I recently went for an assessment day which I failed, could anybody let me know what it is they are looking for, the assessment entailed group discussion, intray exercise then a 1-2-1 with an assessor, structured interview and price checking from brochures with discounts, etc taking into account. I don't really want to take up time by going to college to study Travel and Tourism if it can be helped. thanks

[andy hughes]

Contact the people who carried out your assessment, and ask them for feedback on why you failed, and advice on improving for a possible future test. This will give you an idea about whether or not you only failed by a few marks, in which case you can probably pass next time, or you were miles off, in which case this may not be the career for you. With that information, you can move on to the next stage, depending what that may be.

[BenDToy]

Also please remember that different organisations are looking for different characteristics. It may be that you are suitable for another travel agency, just not this one. Good luck.

[Fish the Mod]

People buy people then the product. Did you do a role play with a friend beforehand? Did you read up on the company beforehand? Andy is right, ask for feedback and work on that- good luck

[morkaljohn]

Certainly! It sounds like you're eager to break into the travel agency industry and you're seeking some guidance on how to improve your chances based on your recent assessment day experience. Here's some insight into what they might be looking for:

1. **Customer Service Skills**: In the travel industry, providing exceptional customer service is key. Employers will look for candidates who are friendly, approachable, and have strong communication skills. During your assessment, make sure to actively participate in group discussions and demonstrate your ability to engage with others in a positive and helpful manner.

2. **Problem-Solving Abilities**: Travel agents often encounter various challenges, such as booking changes, cancellations, or unexpected issues during trips. Employers will want to see how well you can think on your feet and come up with solutions to potential problems. The intray exercise might have been designed to assess this skill, so make sure to showcase your ability to handle tasks efficiently and effectively.

3. **Product Knowledge**: While you may not have prior experience in the travel industry, demonstrating a basic understanding of travel products and destinations can be advantageous. Take some time to familiarize yourself with popular tourist destinations, travel packages, and common travel-related terms. This will help you feel more confident during the structured interview and when price checking from brochures.

4. **Adaptability and Flexibility**: The travel industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, so employers value candidates who can adapt to changes and remain flexible in their approach to work. During your assessment, try to demonstrate your willingness to learn new things and your ability to adapt to different situations.

5. **Attention to Detail**: When price checking from brochures or handling any administrative tasks, accuracy is crucial. Pay close attention to details and double-check your work to ensure accuracy and avoid errors.

While formal education in Travel and Tourism can be beneficial, it's not always necessary to land a job in the industry. Instead, focus on showcasing your relevant skills, enthusiasm for the industry, and willingness to learn and grow. Consider seeking out entry-level positions or internships to gain hands-on experience and further develop your skills in the field. Good luck!