tour leader duties and responsibilities

What Does a Tour Manager Do?

Find out what a Tour Manager does, how to get this job, salary information, and what it takes to succeed as a Tour Manager.

The Tour Manager serves as the linchpin in ensuring the smooth operation of tours, from planning stages through to execution. This role encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including logistical coordination, financial management, and acting as a point of contact for both the touring party and external entities. By maintaining a clear line of communication and addressing any arising issues promptly, the Tour Manager ensures that each aspect of the tour aligns with the overarching goals and expectations. Their expertise not only in planning but also in problem-solving facilitates a seamless experience for all involved, making them an indispensable part of any touring team.

Tour Manager Job Duties

• Coordinate travel logistics, including booking flights, arranging ground transportation, and securing accommodations for all tour members.
• Develop and manage the tour budget, ensuring all expenses stay within the allocated funds and handling any financial discrepancies that arise.
• Liaise with venue managers to schedule performances, negotiate contracts, and ensure technical and rider requirements are met for each show.
• Oversee the daily schedule, making sure all tour members are informed of the itinerary, soundcheck times, performance times, and any media commitments.
• Handle any emergencies or unexpected issues that arise during the tour, such as medical emergencies, equipment failures, or travel disruptions.
• Facilitate communication between the tour crew, band members, and external parties such as promoters, sponsors, and media representatives.
• Ensure the well-being of the tour group by monitoring workloads, stress levels, and interpersonal dynamics to maintain a positive and productive environment.
• Collect and manage merchandise sales at shows, including inventory tracking, sales reconciliation, and financial reporting to stakeholders.

Tour Manager Salary & Outlook

Factors influencing a Tour Manager’s salary include the size and popularity of the touring act, the complexity and duration of tours, the manager’s experience and proven success in the role, and the specific demands of the tour, such as international travel or managing large crews. Negotiation skills also play a crucial role.

• Median Annual Salary: $49,350 ($23.73/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $94,500 ($45.43/hour)

The employment of tour managers is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade.

This growth is driven by increasing global travel demand, a rising interest in unique, personalized experiences, and the expansion of the entertainment industry, requiring skilled professionals to manage tours, ensure smooth operations, and enhance visitor satisfaction across diverse cultural and geographical landscapes.

Tour Manager Job Requirements

Education: A Tour Manager typically has a diverse educational background, with many having completed some college courses, often in fields like tourism, hospitality, or business management. High school diploma holders also enter this field, leveraging subjects like geography, history, and languages. Those with Bachelor’s or Associate’s degrees usually major in travel, tourism management, or related disciplines, focusing on courses that enhance their understanding of global cultures, customer service, and logistical planning.

Experience: Tour Managers often start with varied levels of experience, ranging from none to a solid foundation of several months. Key areas of expertise include customer service, event planning, and logistics management. On-the-job training is common, allowing newcomers to learn directly from seasoned professionals. Training programs may also be available, focusing on communication skills, safety protocols, and itinerary planning. A blend of hands-on experience and formal training prepares individuals for the multifaceted responsibilities of guiding tours and ensuring guest satisfaction.

Certifications & Licenses: Certifications and licenses are not typically required for Tour Managers. However, a valid driver’s license may be necessary if driving is part of the job duties. In some regions, a Tour Guide License is required to lead tours in certain historical or protected sites. First Aid and CPR certifications are beneficial for safety reasons.

Tour Manager Skills

Itinerary Planning: Tour managers meticulously map out each step of the journey, ensuring a balance between travel logistics and engaging experiences. They coordinate transportation, accommodations, activities, and dining, while remaining adaptable to unforeseen changes or opportunities that could enhance the tour’s value.

Budget Management: Allocating funds efficiently across various aspects of a tour, from transportation to emergency expenses, is crucial for a smooth and cost-effective operation. This skill involves detailed planning and constant monitoring to adapt to unexpected changes without compromising the tour experience.

Contract Negotiation: Securing favorable terms with vendors, venues, and artists through effective negotiation ensures financial efficiency and smooth event execution. A keen eye for detail and the ability to anticipate potential challenges are essential for managing risks and maximizing opportunities.

Crisis Management: Handling unexpected events, such as sudden weather changes or health emergencies, with quick thinking and effective communication ensures minimal disruption to the itinerary. Making informed decisions under pressure is critical for protecting the travelers’ experience and the tour company’s reputation.

Artist Liaison: Smooth communication and coordination between artists and venue staff are achieved through diplomacy and problem-solving. Planning and executing all logistical aspects of the artist’s needs, from accommodation to technical requirements, are vital for a seamless performance experience.

Merchandise Logistics: Coordinating the transportation, storage, and sale of band merchandise at various tour stops requires attention to detail and organizational skills. Ensuring products are available at the right place and time maximizes revenue opportunities while minimizing logistical challenges.

Tour Manager Work Environment

A Tour Manager’s work environment is dynamic, often changing with each tour location. Their workspace is wherever the tour is, from buses and vans to hotels and backstage areas at venues. They rely heavily on mobile devices and laptops to stay organized, communicate with team members, and handle logistics.

Work hours are irregular, with evenings, weekends, and holidays being common times for events. This necessitates a flexible approach to personal time and a wardrobe that can transition from casual during travel to professional at events.

The social environment is team-oriented, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and communication. Tour Managers frequently interact with a wide range of individuals including artists, venue staff, and fans, requiring excellent interpersonal skills.

Travel is a significant component, leading to a high-paced work environment that can be both exciting and exhausting. Despite the challenges, the role offers unique experiences and opportunities for professional growth within the entertainment industry.

Advancement Prospects

Tour Managers can advance their careers by transitioning into roles with larger tour companies or artists, aiming for positions that handle more prestigious and high-profile tours. This often involves taking on international tours, which require a deeper understanding of global logistics and cultural nuances.

Another path is moving into tour planning and strategy, focusing on the design and execution of tours from a higher-level perspective. This could lead to roles such as Tour Director or even into event management, where skills in logistics, people management, and creativity are highly valued.

For those with a knack for the business side, advancing into tour production or becoming a Tour Producer offers a blend of financial planning, marketing, and operational management. This requires a strong understanding of budgeting, contract negotiation, and marketing strategies specific to the entertainment and tourism industries.

Achieving these advancements typically involves gaining extensive hands-on experience, building a robust portfolio of successful tours, and developing a deep network within the music, entertainment, and travel sectors. Demonstrating leadership, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage complex projects under pressure are crucial.

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Tour Guide Job Description

Tour guides familiarize people with the history, functions, and customs of a particular region or establishment. Though customers typically include foreigners on vacation, virtually any person can attend a tour.

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Tour Guide Job Description Template

We are searching for a vibrant tour guide to join our established company. The tour guide's responsibilities include planning travel itineraries, familiarizing customers with the locality by vehicle or foot, and ensuring that the group remains safe at all times. You should also stay up-to-date with new attractions that may be of interest to customers.

To ensure success as a tour guide, you should be an excellent storyteller with a knack for customer service. An outstanding tour guide will perform minor alterations to each itinerary to suit the unique interests of each group.

Tour Guide Responsibilities:

• Greeting and welcoming customers to the tour.
• Informing customers about the itinerary for each tour.
• Planning itineraries in accordance with weather forecasts and the length of each tour.
• Scheduling visits and purchasing tickets to museums, galleries, protected parks, and other attractions ahead of time, if required.
• Planning alternate activities in the event that cancellations, closures, or weather prohibit you from attending scheduled events.
• Gathering and maintaining the requisite equipment for each tour.
• Familiarizing yourself with the layout and history of the region or establishment in which you will be working.
• Familiarizing customers with each region or establishment.
• Encouraging guests to apply sunscreen regularly and to remain hydrated, if applicable.
• Directing customers to other, noncompeting services that might be of interest to them.

Tour Guide Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience as a tour guide is advantageous.
• Capacity to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Adherence to prescribed safety codes.
• Excellent conversational skills with a knack for storytelling.
• Personable, humorous disposition.
• Outstanding organizational, time management, and improvisational skills.
• Passionate about traveling.
• Ability to work during evenings and on weekends.

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What does a tour guide do?

Would you make a good tour guide? Take our career test and find your match with over 800 careers.

What is a Tour Guide?

A tour guide provides assistance, information, and guidance to individuals or groups of tourists during their travels. Their primary role is to enhance the travel experience by sharing knowledge and insights about the destinations, attractions, and cultural aspects of the places being visited. Tour guides are well-versed in the history, geography, culture, and traditions of the locations they cover, and they use their expertise to educate and entertain the tourists.

Tour guides are responsible for organizing and leading tours, ensuring that the itinerary is followed, and the group stays on schedule. They may work in various settings, including cities, historical sites, natural landscapes, or cultural landmarks. During tours, guides provide commentary, answer questions, and engage with the tourists, creating an interactive and immersive experience. They may also assist with logistical matters, such as arranging transportation, coordinating entry to attractions, and recommending places to eat or shop.

What does a Tour Guide do?

Tour guides bring destinations to life by providing valuable expertise and insights. While guidebooks and online resources can offer information, tour guides offer a unique and personalized experience that cannot be replicated.

Duties and Responsibilities Tour guides have a range of duties and responsibilities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for tourists. Some of the key responsibilities include:

• Planning and organizing: Tour guides research and plan tour itineraries, considering factors such as the duration of the tour, the interests of the group, and the availability of attractions. They arrange transportation, accommodation, meals, and any necessary permits or tickets, ensuring that everything is well-coordinated.
• Providing information and commentary: A primary role of tour guides is to offer informative and engaging commentary about the destinations being visited. They share historical facts, cultural insights, and interesting anecdotes to educate and entertain tourists. Guides should have a deep understanding of the locations, including their history, architecture, local customs, and traditions.
• Leading tours and managing groups: Tour guides are responsible for leading the group throughout the tour. They ensure that the group stays together, follows the itinerary, and adheres to any safety guidelines. Guides should have good organizational and leadership skills to manage groups of varying sizes and diverse backgrounds.
• Assisting with logistics: Tour guides handle practical aspects of the tour, such as coordinating transportation between sites, arranging entry to attractions, and managing timing to optimize the itinerary. They provide directions, answer questions, and offer recommendations for meals, shopping, and other activities.
• Ensuring safety and security: Guides prioritize the safety and security of the tourists. They inform the group about potential risks or hazards, and they take necessary precautions to prevent accidents or incidents. In emergency situations, guides should be prepared to provide assistance and follow appropriate protocols.
• Interacting and engaging with tourists: Tour guides create a welcoming and interactive environment for tourists. They foster a positive and friendly atmosphere, encourage questions, and actively engage with the group. Guides should be approachable and adaptable, catering to the needs and interests of the tourists.
• Resolving issues and addressing concerns: Tour guides act as a point of contact for tourists, addressing any concerns or issues that may arise during the tour. They handle complaints, resolve conflicts, and provide assistance or alternative solutions when needed.
• Promoting responsible and sustainable tourism: Guides play a crucial role in promoting responsible tourism practices. They educate tourists about local customs and cultural sensitivities, encourage respectful behavior towards local communities and the environment, and advocate for sustainable travel practices.

Types of Tour Guides There are various types of tour guides, each specializing in different areas and catering to specific types of tours. Here are some common types of tour guides and a brief description of what they do:

• City Tour Guides: City tour guides specialize in providing tours within a specific city or urban area. They are well-versed in the history, architecture, landmarks, and culture of the city. Their role is to guide tourists through popular attractions, historical sites, and local neighborhoods, offering insights and commentary along the way.
• Cultural Tour Guides: Cultural tour guides focus on highlighting the cultural aspects of a destination. They provide in-depth knowledge about local traditions, customs, festivals, and arts. These guides may accompany tourists to museums, art galleries, cultural events, or religious sites, helping them understand and appreciate the cultural significance of these places.
• Ecotourism Guides : Ecotourism guides are responsible for designing and planning itineraries that are environmentally and culturally responsible, researching the destination, developing educational materials, preparing necessary equipment, and coordinating logistics such as transportation, accommodation, and meals.
• Adventure Tour Guides: Adventure tour guides lead tours focused on outdoor activities and adventure sports such as hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, or skiing. They possess skills and knowledge in the specific activities offered, ensuring the safety of participants while providing guidance and instruction. Adventure guides may take tourists to remote and challenging locations, coordinating logistics and providing a thrilling experience.
• Historical Tour Guides: Historical tour guides specialize in providing detailed insights into the history of a destination. They are knowledgeable about specific historical periods, events, and significant landmarks. These guides often work in historical sites, monuments, or archaeological sites, sharing historical context and stories that bring the past to life for tourists.
• Specialized Tour Guides: Specialized tour guides cater to niche interests or specific types of tours. Examples include food tour guides who focus on culinary experiences, wine tour guides who provide expertise on vineyards and wine tasting, or art tour guides who lead tours in museums and art galleries, offering interpretations of artworks.

Are you suited to be a tour guide?

Tour guides have distinct personalities . They tend to be social individuals, which means they’re kind, generous, cooperative, patient, caring, helpful, empathetic, tactful, and friendly. They excel at socializing, helping others, and teaching. Some of them are also enterprising, meaning they’re adventurous, ambitious, assertive, extroverted, energetic, enthusiastic, confident, and optimistic.

Does this sound like you? Take our free career test to find out if tour guide is one of your top career matches.

What is the workplace of a Tour Guide like?

The workplace of a tour guide can be quite diverse and dynamic, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor environments. One aspect of their workplace involves cultural and urban settings. City tour guides, for instance, operate within bustling cities, leading tourists through streets, squares, and iconic landmarks. They may work in vibrant neighborhoods, historic districts, or cosmopolitan areas, immersing tourists in the local culture and urban atmosphere. These guides navigate through crowded streets, interact with locals, and provide insights into the city's history, architecture, and vibrant lifestyle. They may also lead tours in museums, art galleries, or cultural centers, where they can showcase the city's artistic and cultural offerings.

Another significant aspect of a tour guide's workplace is outdoor settings. Nature and wildlife tour guides find themselves working in breathtaking natural landscapes, such as forests, mountains, or coastal areas. These guides lead groups on hikes, nature walks, or wildlife safaris, sharing their knowledge about the local flora, fauna, and ecosystems. Their workplace is characterized by stunning scenery, serene environments, and opportunities for visitors to connect with nature. Adventure tour guides also operate in outdoor settings, taking tourists on thrilling activities like rafting, rock climbing, or skiing. They work in adventurous and often remote locations, ensuring the safety of participants while providing an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Additionally, the workplace of a tour guide can extend to various modes of transportation. They may lead tours on buses, boats, trains, or even walking tours, utilizing different forms of transportation to explore diverse attractions and destinations. This allows guides to provide a comprehensive experience, showcasing various facets of a region while offering comfort and convenience to tourists.

Tour Guides are also known as: Tourist Guide

Tour Guide Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In this era of global travel and exploration, the focus on tour guides has never been more critical.

As tourism evolves, the demand for skilled individuals who can navigate, educate and ensure the safety of travelers grows.

But let’s break it down: What’s truly expected from a tour guide?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of the tourism industry,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable tour guide job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Tour Guide Duties and Responsibilities

Tour Guides offer support and information to tourists, visitors and travelers.

They are experts in the history, culture, and landmarks of a specific area and provide meaningful experiences for tourists by engaging and educating them about the area.

The duties and responsibilities of a Tour Guide include:

• Planning and preparing tour itineraries
• Leading and accompanying groups on tours of cities, historical sites, and other points of interest
• Providing educational and interesting facts about landmarks and attractions
• Ensuring the safety of the group at all times
• Answering questions and engaging with tourists to provide an interactive experience
• Providing directions and travel advice
• Dealing with emergencies and unexpected situations
• Managing the logistics of tours such as transport and entry tickets
• Performing administrative tasks like confirming bookings and handling payments
• Providing customer service and handling complaints or issues from tourists

Tour Guide Job Description Template

We are seeking an engaging, friendly and informative Tour Guide to provide our visitors with memorable and unique experiences during their visits.

The Tour Guide’s responsibilities include designing and facilitating tours, maintaining knowledge of the tour site or attraction, and providing visitors with interesting, factual information about the site.

Our ideal candidate has excellent public speaking skills, a customer-focused approach and a passion for history and culture.

Ultimately, the role of the Tour Guide is to ensure a high standard of customer service and provide a professional, informative and enjoyable tour experience.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead guided tours for groups
• Provide detailed information about historical, cultural, or geographical significance of sites
• Answer visitor questions and interact with group members in a courteous, friendly manner
• Ensure safety regulations and procedures are followed
• Assist with ticket sales, reservations, and group bookings
• Keep tour areas clean and organized
• Develop and update tour scripts to keep tours engaging and informative
• Provide feedback to management on tour efficiency and guest satisfaction
• Handle any problems or emergencies that arise during tours

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a tour guide
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills
• Ability to memorize and recite facts clearly and accurately
• Strong customer service skills
• Knowledge of foreign languages is a plus
• First aid certification may be required
• High school diploma or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in tourism or relevant field is a plus
• Flexible schedule
• Travel discounts
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts
• Health insurance options

Additional Information

• Job Title: Tour Guide
• Work Environment: Tour sites and attractions, both indoors and outdoors. Some weekend, holiday, and evening work may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Tour Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $20,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time, Seasonal
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Tour Guide Do?

Tour Guides typically work for travel agencies, tour operators, or at specific tourist attractions.

They can also work as freelance individuals offering specialized tours based on their expertise.

Their main responsibility is to guide groups or individuals around sites of interest such as cities, historical landmarks, museums, and natural attractions.

They provide their knowledge and insights about the locations, including historical facts, cultural background, architectural details, and more.

They plan and organize tours considering the interests, needs, and safety of the tourists.

They manage travel logistics such as transportation, accommodations, and meals.

They ensure that the tour runs smoothly and on schedule.

Tour Guides also answer questions, address concerns, and engage with tourists to enhance their travel experience.

They may have to handle unexpected situations or emergencies during the tour.

They are often responsible for ensuring tourists respect the rules and regulations of the sites visited, ensuring both the preservation of the site and the safety of the group.

Moreover, they might be required to provide first aid, and in some cases, they are also responsible for selling tour tickets and managing the financial aspects of the tour.

Tour Guide Qualifications and Skills

A proficient tour guide should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that enhance their ability to guide and interact with tourists, such as:

• Outstanding communication skills to provide clear, engaging and informative descriptions of places and events.
• Customer service skills to cater to the needs and inquiries of tourists, ensuring a pleasant and memorable experience.
• Interpersonal skills to connect with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, maintaining a positive and friendly demeanor at all times.
• Local knowledge and a passion for history, culture, and geography to educate and entertain tourists about the locality.
• Physical stamina and good health to manage long walks, stand for extended periods, and handle luggage or equipment if necessary.
• Problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations or emergencies that may arise during the tour.
• Fluency in multiple languages can be a significant advantage, enhancing the ability to communicate with tourists from various parts of the world.
• Time management skills to ensure that the tour adheres to the planned schedule, balancing the need to be informative and enjoyable with the need to be prompt and efficient.

Tour Guide Experience Requirements

Experience requirements for tour guides can vary widely based on the type of tours they are leading.

However, some general experience is usually required in customer service, public speaking, or related areas.

Entry-level candidates may be required to have 1 to 2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, such as working in a hotel, restaurant, or retail environment.

They may also gain relevant experience through internships or part-time roles at museums, historical sites, or tourism companies.

Candidates with over 3 years of experience often have developed their skills in communication, crowd management, and first aid.

They have likely worked in a variety of tour guiding roles, such as city tours, nature tours, or historical site tours.

Those with more than 5 years of experience have usually honed their expertise in a specific type of tour or location and may be ready for a role as a senior guide or tour director.

They may also have experience creating and planning tours, managing other guides, or working in a supervisory role in the tourism industry.

In addition to job experience, many tour guides also have a background in fields such as history, geography, or a foreign language, depending on the specific requirements of the tour.

Many also have professional certifications from recognized tourism or guiding associations.

Tour Guide Education and Training Requirements

Tour Guides generally require a high school diploma or equivalent qualification, although a bachelor’s degree in a field such as history, archaeology, or tourism management can be highly beneficial.

They should have a strong knowledge of the areas and sites they guide visitors through, which is often gained through on-the-job training or previous experience in a similar role.

In-depth knowledge of a foreign language can be a significant advantage in this field, especially for guides working in areas frequented by international tourists.

In many areas, tour guides must also obtain a license or certification, which usually involves passing an examination that tests their knowledge of the area and its history.

Some tour guides may also choose to obtain a certification from an organization such as the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations or the National Federation of Tourist Guide Associations, which can enhance their credibility and increase their employment opportunities.

Continuous learning is critical for tour guides, as they must keep up to date with new historical research, changes in local regulations, and trends in the tourism industry.

Tour Guide Salary Expectations

A Tour Guide can expect to earn an average wage of $13.27 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual earnings may differ depending on factors such as experience, the specific location of employment, and the company that they work for.

Tour Guide Job Description FAQs

What skills does a tour guide need.

A Tour Guide should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with a diverse group of people.

They should have a deep knowledge of the area or site they are guiding and be able to present information in an engaging and entertaining way.

They should also have problem-solving skills to handle any unexpected situations, and good physical stamina as the job often involves a lot of walking or standing.

Do Tour Guides need any specific qualifications?

While a degree is not strictly required to become a Tour Guide, having a qualification in a related field such as history, archaeology or travel and tourism could be beneficial.

Many employers prioritize experience and knowledge about the site or region over formal education.

However, some regions require Tour Guides to be licensed or certified, which could involve passing an exam or completing a training program.

What should you look for in a Tour Guide’s resume?

A good Tour Guide resume should showcase a deep knowledge of the area or site, and any relevant qualifications or certifications.

It should also show strong communication and customer service skills, and any experience in handling emergencies or unexpected situations.

Multilingual abilities can be a strong asset for Tour Guides, especially in areas frequented by international tourists.

What qualities make a good Tour Guide?

A good Tour Guide is passionate about their area or site and is enthusiastic in sharing their knowledge with others.

They are friendly, patient and have strong customer service skills, and can adapt their tours to suit the needs of different groups.

They are also dependable and can handle difficult situations calmly and efficiently.

Is it difficult to hire Tour Guides?

The difficulty in hiring Tour Guides often depends on the specific needs of the role.

For popular tourist locations that require a deep knowledge of the site or area, finding a qualified Guide can be challenging.

You may also need to consider language skills, as many tourists may not speak the local language.

Offering competitive pay, flexible hours and opportunities for further training can help attract qualified candidates.

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve journeyed through the intricate maze of what it means to be a tour guide .

Guess what?

It’s not just about pointing out landmarks.

It’s about weaving captivating stories, connecting cultures, and painting vivid pictures of history, one tour at a time.

With our handy tour guide job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But don’t stop just yet!

Venture further with our job description generator . It’s your go-to resource for crafting meticulous job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Every tour, every story, is a piece of the larger tapestry.

Let’s weave those tales. Together.

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How to Become a Tour Guide (Complete Guide)

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The Editorial Team at InterviewGuy.com is composed of certified interview coaches, seasoned HR professionals, and industry insiders. With decades of collective expertise and access to an unparalleled database of interview questions, we are dedicated to empowering job seekers. Our content meets real-time industry demands, ensuring readers receive timely, accurate, and actionable advice. We value our readers' insights and encourage feedback, corrections, and questions to maintain the highest level of accuracy and relevance.

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Tour Leader or Manager

A tour manager or tour leader plans and accompanies a group of holidaymakers on a tour, within the UK or abroad, making sure everything runs to plan. The tour, lasting days or weeks, is usually by coach, but sometimes includes travel by train, plane or boat.

You could be:

• designing tours and booking all aspects, such as accommodation and meals
• making deals with hotels and theatres to provide meals, accommodation and entertainment
• assisting with meal preparation and buying supplies on some types of tours
• welcoming groups at the starting point and making sure that everyone has arrived
• pointing out and explaining tourist attractions during the trip
• answering questions and giving advice on language and currency
• making sure travel arrangements and stopovers run smoothly and changing routes or arrangements as necessary
• handling passport or visa problems, emergencies, illness, accidents, lost luggage and any complaints.

The figures below are only a guide. Income for tour managers or tour leaders varies considerably, depending on:

• where you work
• the size of the company or organisation you work for
• the demand for the job.

Most tour managers or tour leaders are self-employed and work for tour operators on a freelance basis, charging a fee for each tour.

Starting pay can be between £15,000 and £20,000 a year, which can rise up to around £30,000 with experience. In addition you may get, for the duration of each tour, a daily allowance plus free board and lodgings, plus other relevant expenses.

• You work long hours including early mornings, evenings, and weekends; you are usually on duty day and night for the tour's duration, which can be for a few weeks at a time.
• You work both indoors and outdoors.
• You are away from home, sometimes abroad, for days, weeks or even months at a time.
• Depending on the type of tour you lead, your accommodation could be anything from a hotel or hostel to a tent.
• You might have to wear a uniform.
• The work is seasonal, but it is possible to work all year round if you are prepared to work in different countries.
• Some tour managers are self-employed.

Workforce Employment Status

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Useful Subjects

• Mandarin (Simplified)
• Mandarin (Traditional)
• Modern Languages
• SfW Travel and Tourism
• Skills and personality are more important than formal qualifications, but a good general education is useful.
• Fluency in a foreign language is usually necessary, especially if working abroad.
• You should have knowledge of and interest in the history and geography of the area you want to work in.
• You should be in good physical condition if the tour involves adventure activities, for example trekking or kayaking.
• A driving licence may be an advantage, particularly a PCV licence as some jobs involve being a driver/tour manager.
• If working as a driver tour leader, you usually need to be at least 25 years of age for insurance purposes.

Vacancies appear in trade journals such as Travel Weekly, Travel Trade Gazette and on websites which advertise travel jobs such as traveljobsearch.com. Once you have relevant experience you can register with a travel related employment agency such as New Frontiers.

Workforce Education Levels (UK)

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Job Outlook Scotland

Job outlook scotland and uk.

What Does it Take?

You need to be:

• able to communicate with a wide range of people
• able to deal with problems and emergencies in a calm manner
• good at solving problems
• responsible and able to make decisions
• tolerant and resilient.

You need to have:

• leadership skills
• a smart appearance
• awareness of safety issues and first aid
• excellent organisation and time management skills
• a knowledge of foreign languages
• lots of energy and a sense of humour
• good knowledge of the history, culture and geography of the countries you are based in.
• New tour managers or tour leaders usually attend an induction course covering main destinations, company policies and health and safety. Courses can last a few weeks.
• You may accompany an experienced tour manager for your first few trips.
• You are expected to keep your knowledge of routes, places of interest and accommodation up-to-date.
• The International Association of Tour Managers (IATM) offers two certificates to its active members, The European Tours Managers Certificate and The Tour Manager/Tour Guide's Certificate (TMC/TGC), which identifies you as a professional tour manager. To gain the certificate you must be a member and pass a written and oral exam. The association also organises educational tours and programmes aimed at developing your skills.

You may move on to manage a number of tour leaders.

Courtesy of Travel Editions

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.

Springboard Tel: 020 7921 0420 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.careerscope.uk.net Website (2): http://springboard.uk.net/ Twitter: @Springboard_UK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringboardUKCharity/ Springboard UK promotes career opportunities in the hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism industries.

Career Area

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North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

Work as a G Adventures Tour Leader

There’s a reason they get the title ceo.

Become a CEO

We don’t have tour leaders; we have CEOs (Chief Experience Officers). They’re the backbone of our company, leading our customers to adventures. CEOs are the face of G Adventures, helping travellers of all ages connect with our world.

Locations we lead tours

Why become a CEO

Change people’s lives

As a CEO, you’ll give our travellers memories to last a lifetime, and change people’s lives by connecting remote communities with the economic benefits of the global tourist chain.

Explore the world

Who can say that they get paid to travel the world? Well, you can! Take a group of travelers on life-changing trips and have the time of your life while getting paid. That’s a serious win-win.

Create happiness and community

Meet people from all walks of life, creating happiness and community for them – as well as for yourself! There’s simply no other job in the world like it.

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Tour Coordinator Job Description

Tour coordinator duties & responsibilities.

To write an effective tour coordinator job description, begin by listing detailed duties, responsibilities and expectations. We have included tour coordinator job description templates that you can modify and use.

Sample responsibilities for this position include:

Tour Coordinator Qualifications

Qualifications for a job description may include education, certification, and experience.

Licensing or Certifications for Tour Coordinator

List any licenses or certifications required by the position: TSA

Education for Tour Coordinator

Typically a job would require a certain level of education.

Employers hiring for the tour coordinator job most commonly would prefer for their future employee to have a relevant degree such as Bachelor's and Collage Degree in Marketing, Business, Education, Nursing, Hospitality, Communications, Tourism, Management, Human Resources, Associates

Skills for Tour Coordinator

Desired skills for tour coordinator include:

Desired experience for tour coordinator includes:

Tour Coordinator Examples

• Microsoft Word (.docx) .DOCX
• PDF Document (.pdf) .PDF
• Image File (.png) .PNG
• Run account reports as requested by sales
• Liaison with customer service in resolving escalated matters
• Attend a “weekend working meeting” on site on a Friday and walk the tour route for the Sunday, noting any key hazards or risks along the tour route
• Coordinate site tours occurring on a Sunday and will be responsible for ensuring that the tour route is free of vehicles during the tour
• Will be responsible for conducting a brief health and safety briefing for all tour participants prior to each tour beginning
• Will support the tour team from Battersea Power Station Development Company, ensuring that all participants of the tour remain safe throughout
• Attend appropriate departmental meetings/briefings, any other relevant hotel meetings
• Entertainment and shore excursions for our eight ships
• Collaborate with other departments to enhance guest experience
• Manage a Customer’s needs from the moment a new Tour is agreed, through to the post tour follow up
• Ability to organize and present information, views and concepts in a concise and understandable format
• Communication and acting talent
• Pineville, LA
• Indicate full time or part time on work experience
• Provide month/year for start and end dates on work experience
• Assists with patient care in emergency situations
• Use our existing contacts or source new accommodation, excursions & other tour elements
• Co-ordinate sporting fixtures to the relevant team standards / level of play
• Work closely with the Tour Manager to piece together a “once in a lifetime” trip for the team
• Negotiate rates with Suppliers & Ground Service agents
• Work with overseas suppliers and internal staff to ensure that all Health & Safety Audits are complete and accurate
• Financially take responsibility for checking & authorizing tour payments to suppliers, working within the tour budget
• Attend Fam Trips & Visits to Roadshows to keep Product Knowledge up to date & relevant
• Work closely with the Sales team to ensure that Tour requests are handed over accurately
• Support the Business Development team in researching potential new Sporting venues and to research competitor activity
• Receive and record incoming admissions documents and ensure they reach the appropriate person
• Ability to gather and interpret data in situations where the information or problems are not overly difficult or complex
• Ability to set priorities, organize work, and select the appropriate method for processing the work
• Shiprock, NM
• Selectee will be subject to a probationary Investigation
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal good problem-solving abilities
• Based on the list of preferred medical providers, visit medical clinics and specialists in each city as required
• Coordinate and manage the Plant Tour Process from the initial request to clean up following the end of the event
• Oversee and manage tour/event-related vendors to ensure logistics are executed flawlessly, delivered on-time and within budget
• Maintain budgets for tour/event related activities throughout each calendar year
• Ability to source various vendors for a variety of tour/event related needs
• Responsible for set-up and preparation of media equipment (installation, set up, function, and training of users), conference room configurations and office furniture to meet event needs
• Manage conference room and meeting spaces within the facility
• Provide support to overall plant/department initiatives, goals, activities, and administrative tasks
• Coordinate internal and external business relations with professionalism
• Gather the information necessary for applications for funding for Tour Infrastructure equipment
• Track billing with internal project managers and administrative services, external suppliers
• Must be fluent in written and spoken Spanish
• Certificate in tourism, production management, human resources or administration
• Fluency in English, spoken and written, essential
• Must be recommended for Front of House on the Gallup FSI
• Develop a comprehensive campus visit experience that is targeted towards the prospective student and family audience
• Minimum one year experience in hotel environment (ideally in Sales, Reservations, Conference Service or Front Office)
• Ensure the layout of various documents with efficiency and skill
• Update various tools to allow better project tracking
• Participate in various administrative tasks
• Bachelor's degree plus 2 years of hospitality, sales, marketing, public relations, or communications experience reflecting increasing levels of responsibility
• Reply and confirm Wholesaler requests (Tour and FIT) within 24 hours
• Build and Maintain group masters in Property Manager
• Input weekly block space from wholesalers into Property Manager (Tour and FIT’s)
• Check weekly configurable reports to ensure accurate group block
• Input monthly Tour Performance for wholesale companies sending sales reports
• Maintain a professional working relationship with tour companies
• 1 year of customer service and/or reporting experience required
• Background in accounting or finance is an asset
• Able to multi-task and work under deadlines
• Knowledge of role, functions, and responsibilities of clinical support services
• Physical and intellectual capacity to satisfactorily perform assigned duties
• Ability to successfully collaborate with all members of the interdisciplinary team
• Assist in maintaining and reconciling all accounting records and billing functions related to airline travel, rental car and hotel usage
• Must be able to multi-task and maintain a detailed and organized filing system for all travel related documents
• Build of tour rates and blocks in Property Manager based on season (summer / winter)
• Assist Group Services and Tour Dining department in high summer season
• Attend hotel functions as necessary - FAM’s, SITE’s
• Review contracts to ensure Group and FIT blocks are accurate
• Ensure promotions are valid, confirmed and built at time of booking
• Follow up with Sales to ensure all contractual and promotional offers are accurate
• Perform reservation duties, as necessary
• Responsible for identifying, contacting and booking logistics for the successful production of any assigned project
• An energetic self-starter with positive outlook and go-getter attitude
• Must be computer, smartphone and online savvy
• Flexibility with work assignments and Tour of Duty
• Ability to direct staff in medical emergencies Psychiatric emergencies
• Assist with competency development of staff
• Evidence of critical thinking ability to problem solve

Related Job Descriptions

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What They Do

What does a Tour Guide do?

As their title describes, tour guides offer guided tours to individuals or groups of visitors. Tour guides undertake research and plan tours, provide sightseeing advice, and organize excursions. They transport and accompany their guests to the tourist spots in specific destinations. They are expected to be experts on the historical background and culture of an area. A useful tour guide must be equipped with enough enthusiasm, punctuality, keen sense, strong communication skills , and a steel-trap memory.

• Responsibilities
• Skills And Traits
• Comparisions
• Types of Tour Guide

Tour guide responsibilities

Tour guides play a vital role in providing informative and engaging tours, as seen in examples such as "provided guests with informational tours throughout the original Heineken brewery and brewing process" and "promoted the university to prospective students and parents by providing campus tours." Their responsibilities often include leading visitors through places of interest, answering questions, and ensuring safety regulations are followed. In addition, tour guides also handle tasks such as processing and recording inventory, providing basic clerical services, and promoting the business through online channels.

Here are examples of responsibilities from real tour guide resumes:

• Manage the canoe landing including guests, workers, and canoe traffic in a way that all run smoothly and safely.
• Aid clients with matters regarding passports and visas.
• Receive multiple positive reviews on the company Facebook page.
• Complete extensive training as well as first aid, CPR and a certification.
• Maintain alertness for any problem solve calls via radio and communication with management.
• Spearhead all creative activity for online marketing (Facebook), and other social media sites5.
• Master coursework, absorbing tens of rescue procedures, as well as CPR and first-aid operations.
• Perform clerical duties such as filing, typing, operating switchboards, and routing mail and messages.
• Used skills such as memorization and recitation while staying in a cheerful mood on a moving trolley car.
• Instruct guests on the proper way to ride a Segway so that each guest is safe and comfortable.
• Train newer team members on in-house software, vendor booking systems, and phone etiquette with clients and vendors.
• Perform EMT medical per pack proto call unassist or with team.-Perform SAR and EMTs as regular part of duties.
• Serve as a university ambassador to lead campus wide tours to prospective students, faculty, alumni, and other visitors.
• Work extensively with public scheduling reservations.
• Vacation ownership, timeshare, surveys presentation, verification

Tour guide skills and personality traits

We calculated that 22 % of Tour Guides are proficient in Local History , Customer Service , and Safety Practices .

We break down the percentage of Tour Guides that have these skills listed on their resume here:

Guided visitors through a half mile of passages informing them of both the geological and local history of the cave.

Executed premium customer service by accommodating the guests with positive energy, organization, extensive knowledge and flexibility.

Monitor visitors' activities to ensure compliance with establishment or tour regulations and safety practices.

Exercised public speaking and guest relation skills through energetic tours of baseball bat factory Perceived audience's interests and tailored tour accordingly

Assist in front desk operations and the application processing department of the Admissions office on an as needed basis.

Handled promotion of the business through online channels such as Facebook, Twitter, Search Engine Optimization, and TripAdvisor.

"local history," "customer service," and "safety practices" are among the most common skills that tour guides use at work. You can find even more tour guide responsibilities below, including:

Most common tour guide skills

The three companies that hire the most tour guides are:

8 tour guides jobs

• Anheuser-Busch 7 tour guides jobs
• Travel and Transport 6 tour guides jobs

Choose from 10+ customizable tour guide resume templates

Compare different tour guides

Tour guide vs. river.

Escort is a service provided to accompany an individual, group of people, or vehicle to provide guidance and protection or mark of honor. Military Escort services accompany deceased military personnel to show respect--a healthcare escort sometimes accompanies patients to their destination for ongoing care safely. A Security Escort, commonly called close escort duties, is performed by bodyguards to accompany individuals like VIPs, Celebrities, Sports stars, Heads of State whenever they make an appearance and travel around. A Security Escort usually has special training in evasive driving, close combat, firearms, and first aid.

These skill sets are where the common ground ends though. The responsibilities of a tour guide are more likely to require skills like "local history," "customer service," "safety practices," and "public speaking." On the other hand, a job as a river requires skills like "pos," "css," "charles," and "epa." As you can see, what employees do in each career varies considerably.

Tour guide vs. Museum attendant

Each career also uses different skills, according to real tour guide resumes. While tour guide responsibilities can utilize skills like "local history," "safety practices," "public speaking," and "facebook," museum attendants use skills like "patrol," "cash handling," "museum visitors," and "museum events."

Tour guide vs. Escort

Some important key differences between the two careers include a few of the skills necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of each. Some examples from tour guide resumes include skills like "local history," "customer service," "safety practices," and "public speaking," whereas an escort is more likely to list skills in "patients," "emergency situations," "safety hazards," and "law enforcement. "

Tour guide vs. Docent

Types of tour guide.

Updated April 25, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

What Similar Roles Do

• What an Escort Does
• What a Guide Does
• What a River Rafting Guide Does

Tour Guide Related Careers

• Art Museum Aide
• Campus Tour Guide
• Driver/Guide
• Escort Service Attendant
• Fishing Guide
• Hunting Guide
• Mountain Guide
• Museum Attendant
• Museum Guide
• Outdoor Guide
• River Guide

Tour Guide Related Jobs

Resume for related jobs.

• Docent Resume
• Escort Resume
• Guide Resume
• Zippia Careers
• Personal Care and Attendants Industry
• What Does A Tour Guide Do

Browse personal care and attendants jobs