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Tour Guide

Tour guides escort people on sightseeing, educational or other tours and describe points of interest.

What you would do:

  • describe and explain points of interest of the tour
  • arrange entry to places such as museums, government buildings and exhibitions
  • answer questions and give out written information
  • lead adventure tourism activities and ensure people are safe at all times
  • maintain the equipment used during adventure tourism activities
  • arrange accommodation and meals
  • prepare meals
  • check and store tourists' bags
  • drive a vehicle such as a bus or coach
  • act as an interpreter
  • market the business if it is a privately-owned tour company

You need to be:

  • knowledgeable of the route to be covered and its tourist attractions  
  • knowledgeable of culture, history, society, geography, flora and fauna
  • able to lead groups 
  • a good communicator with listening and observation skills
  • understanding of the Health and Safety in Employment Act (1992)
  • a good planner and organiser with time management skills
  • able to solve problems and resolve conflicts
  • friendly, outgoing and able to put people at ease
  • polite and patient
  • responsible and trustworthy
  • helpful and perceptive of visitors' needs
  • able to work well under pressure
  • able to remain calm in an emergency
  • able to pay attention to detail
  • able to relate to people from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds
  • able to deal with people's complaints
  • reasonably fit

You will require:

  • a Certificate III in Tourism

Improve your chances by:

  • Taking Tourism as a subject
  • Completing year 12
  • participating in work experience with your local council

What you will earn:

Salaries generally range from between $35,000 to $45,000.

Long Term Possibilities:

  • Tour Manager