Tourist information centre assistant

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

College

You could take a college course like:

• Level 2 Award in the Principles of Customer Service in Leisure, Travel and Tourism
• Level 2 Diploma in Travel and Tourism
• Level 3 Applied Certificate in Tourism

Entry requirements:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

Entry requirements:

DirectApplication

You could apply directly for jobs. There are no set entry requirements but it may help if you have:

• a good knowledge of the local area and its attractions and facilities
• experience of customer service
• the ability to speak one or more foreign languages
• GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C)

You may get tested on local knowledge and your ability to research queries.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• a desire to help people
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to work well with others
• administration skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• sensitivity and understanding
• knowledge of English language
• active listening skills
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to read English
• excellent written communication skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• thinking and reasoning skills
• concentration skills
• a good memory
• business management skills
• maths skills

What you'll do:

Tourist information centre assistants give information to visitors about transport, tourist attractions and local services and activities.

In your day-to-day duties you could:

• answer customer queries in person, by phone and email
• do research using things like the internet, travel guides and timetables
• provide accurate information on things to see and do and where to stay
• make bookings for travel, entertainment, visitor attractions and accommodation
• set up displays within the centre and re-stock literature
• keep up to date with local accommodation, places to visit, activities and events
• act as an ambassador for the local area and attractions
• serve and sell souvenirs and other items from gift shop

Location : You could work at an information centre, at an airport, at a port or in a museum.
Uniform : You may need to wear a uniform.

Salary:

Starter : £15,000
Experienced : £25,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

28 - 30 hours variable

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends / bank holidays

Career Path:

With experience, you could become a Tourist Information Centre (TIC) supervisor or manager.

You could also move into local authority tourism departments, regional or area tourist board jobs, or to other areas of the travel and tourism industry.