Frequent travelers often hire the services of a travel agent in order to keep track of flights, hotels, car rentals, and other travel services. The occasional traveler may hire an agent to help organize a trip itinerary and find the most affordable flights. If you want to become such an agent, you will first need to become a trainee travel agent who completes a training program that gives you the skills necessary to be successful in the field. Various programs exist that will allow you to become a trainee travel agent, and it is a good idea to do some research to find the ones that are reputable, respectable, and affordable.
First and foremost, you will almost certainly need to graduate from high school or earn an equivalent qualification before you can become a trainee travel agent. You will need to develop basic math skills, and exceptional communications skills. Computer training is a good idea as well, though not necessarily required, as you will be trained how to use various computer programs once you become a trainee travel agent. You will need to be highly organized as well, and a desire to help people will certainly improve your chances of being successful in the position.
Sometimes it is possible to become a trainee travel agent by applying for such a position with a travel agency. The agency will then offer training that will get you oriented within the world of travel. You should expect to go through a year or more of training before you can work on your own, and you will likely need to earn specific certifications or licenses before you can become a full time travel agent. A familiarity with the computer programs commonly used in the industry can take time to develop, and you may have to undergo retraining throughout your career.
Developing solid work experience is a good way to convince employers you are ready to become a trainee travel agent. Any retail work experience is good because it will show employers you are experienced with working with customers, as well as working a register. Jobs that require you to use the phone, e-mail, and computer programs are also great resume builders, as these are skills you will need as a trainee travel agent. A familiarity with world geography is also important, as is a desire to learn more about various vacation destinations and business destinations.
