Tourism is a major engine of growth for the country, and it is one of the largest industries globally. It is an industry that encompasses a variety of sectors. This industry is all about people, and it requires professionals who have the right sets of skills to offer excellent customer service.

 

Apart from the technical skills required in the different sectors within the tourism industry, here are 3 skills in demand in this industry that can help you succeed, no matter what your role is:

 

  1. Customer Service

The tourism industry is all about providing quality service to customers. The level of customer service you provide can easily make or break a tourism business, because customers are expecting only the best service, and if they are disappointed, they are often quick to voice their dissatisfaction publicly.

 

Excellent customer service goes hand-in-hand with understanding the needs of the customers and understanding the business. This can be achieved by ensuring that you spend time getting to know the type of customers that the business attracts, and what their expectations are. You can then figure out how you can best exceed those expectations.

 

Also read: The Top 5 Customer Complaints in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry – and How to Handle Them

 

  1. Cultural Awareness

In most countries, the tourism industry caters to local and international tourists with various cultural backgrounds. This means that cultural awareness is an important aspect when you work in this industry. You will often be dealing with people whose cultural backgrounds differ from yours. Cultural awareness will help to ensure that you understand your customers and what their needs are, so that you are better able to provide high quality service. This will help customers to feel comfortable and to enjoy their experiences, which will encourage them to make use of your business again in the future.

 

Consider studying: Social and Cross-Cultural Skills

 

  1. Flexibility

Flexibility in the way that you work is a crucial skill to have in the tourism industry. The working hours in this industry rarely keep to regular 9 to 5 work days. You need to be able to handle the pressure that may come with working in this industry, and you need to be able to adapt, to think on your feet, and to be prepared to jump from one task to another. Your flexibility will help you become a better problem solver and will help you handle the pressure that comes with working in a fast-paced environment.

 

There are many skills required in the different sectors of the tourism industry. However, three of the skills that will help you carry out your tasks effectively are excellent customer service skills, cultural awareness, and flexibility. Improving your soft skills will complement your technical skills. Your customers will appreciate the compassion and understanding that comes with these skills, and you will be able to serve them better and be able to develop a good reputation in your field.

 

Click to read: 5 Tips for Success in the South African Tourism Industry