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Tour Manager

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Who Is A Tour Manager?

A tour manager is a person who manages, organises, plans and arranges the sight-seeing, travelling and events-related activities for a group of people that visit a foreign country. As a tour manager, it will be your responsibility that a group of tourists have a great time in a city/designated location.

For example, you may have to prepare an agenda for a group of 20 families who visit Mumbai for the first time and are looking forward to an enjoyable stay in the city. As a tour manager, you would be responsible for organising tours, travel arrangements, snacking/dining options, and keep the tourists who you might be accompanying entertained.

Roles & Responsibilities

Understanding the people who are a part of your tour on any particular day. For example, a group of families would want a different experience from a group of single couples. You must clearly understand the people well and plan accordingly.

Customising the tour according to your audience is another key responsibility of tour managers.

Planning the complete route, the dining options, the sight-seeing places, the gems of the city you are working in, and the rest stops and tourist destinations are critical. You will need to work out the entire plan in advance.

Creating an experience that appeals to the target audience is an essential part of the excursion. You will need to ensure that the particular needs of the tour group are met by your tour guide programme and plan.

Ensuring that you explain the entire plan accurately to your guests is a critical part of them having an enjoyable experience.

Making sure you’ve understood the individual needs of your guests, and carrying any medical supplies, support or equipment that will help your trip.

Communicating the tour details to your tour guests so they have a clear idea about what they are going to experience, and of any last-minute customisations that may be required.

Organising the tour and managing all aspects of it; making sure everything runs smoothly.

Taking constant care of your guests. For example, you will have to prioritise your guests’ comfort regularly checking if they need anything at all.

Ensuring the guests understand every destination and point of attraction well, so they better enjoy every experience.

Conversing with the guests to make them feel relaxed and comfortable.

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What Skills Will I Need To Have To Do This Job Well?

As exciting as this sounds, there are some things you’ll need to learn to do the job right:

MANAGERIAL SKILLS

You need to have excellent management skills as there are so many moving parts that anything going wrong can move things ahead unexpectedly. For example, if a bus breaks down and you’re late to visit a particular destination by even an hour, the tourist spot may have closed for the day. This could lead to guests getting impatient and even angry. You will then need to take appropriate action to better manage the crisis.

DETAIL-ORIENTED

You have to be on top of all the activities and events that the group are to experience on a particular day. Everything from checking the weather to ensuring there are enough eatables on the bus. A detail-oriented approach will thus help. This key skill is what will separate beginners from the professionals.

LOCAL CITY KNOWLEDGE

Knowing if a particular temple or a local stage show would appeal to a guest is critical. You have to be well aware of the tiniest of details like the operational hours of a local tourist spot, nearest hygienic restaurants, popular destinations etc. You may otherwise not be able to hold your guest’s attention for long.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Proper communication is one of the most critical parts of the job. You need to be always on your toes, talking to your guests and be able to articulate to your guests. Poor communication or half-baked information can make it difficult for your guests to enjoy themselves.

Tour managers need to be always on to move. You need to be fit enough to be able to work long hours and walk long distances every day. Remember, it might be the first time visiting a famous landmark for your guests, but you’ll be doing it 2-3 times a day for months on end.

What Will My Workplace Look Like?

Your work life will vary, depending on where you work, your role and the scale of your job. As a tour manager, you’ll have to continually be on your toes and understand the places, events, and locations that are becoming popular with tourists. You’ll get to learn from other tour managers about how to deal with unexpected incidents, how to make sure the guests are comfortable and enjoying themselves and other aspects of a properly planned tour. If you’re a part of a larger organisation, then you’ll have sales quotas, attrition rate goals, as well as be incentivised on testimonials and/or repeat clients. The work setting will be a mix of both traditional (office and laptop) and non-traditional (long travel and sight-seeing).

What Is My Scope For Career Growth As A Tour Manager?

As a fresher, you will need to begin as an intern or in a junior position at any travel company. You will be taken through the various processes and be taught how to best plan, organise, and execute a great tour guide for your guests. You’ll also get to learn how to best travel in a domestic or foreign city, pick up key skills mentioned earlier.

After having worked for a few years in the industry, you can then move on to learning about becoming a manager in the Tours and Travels space. You may be assigned teams to lead, and you may have targets to achieve under each location or tour-setting.

You may begin with handling 10-20 people groups, or working in simple and small locations. With consistent good performance, you may get a larger group of tourists to work with and at exotic locations to work.

With the skills you’ve learned on the job, you can grow further by moving up the ladder or even starting your own tour-guide company. You can start by talking to vendors, executioners and working directly with tourist locations and events to provide discounts to your clients and share profits with the players you associate with.

Thinking of a career as a Tour Manager? Take the Mentoria assessment test & talk to our career counsellors to get personalized step-by-step guidance for your future career path.

How Much Will I Get Paid?

The exact number will depend on where you’re working, your education, skill set and internship experience. We can give you a general idea. A tour manager can earn between INR 6,00,000 to 9,00,000 in India at a managerial/senior role. At the entry level, you can earn between INR 2,50,000 to 3,50,000.

Okay, I'm sold. This is amazing

STEP 1: Class XI – XII/Junior College

At this level, learning the basics of communications, commerce or management will help. A keen interest in history is also recommended.

STEP 2: Entrance Exams

Depending on the course you pick, you might have to appear for entrance exams to pursue an undergraduate degree in your chosen field and university. These courses are usually offered by private schools, sometimes in affiliation with international universities. Hence, the admission criteria may vary widely.

STEP 3: Graduate Degree

You can choose to complete your graduation in Tour Management/BSc. These are usually 3-year diplomas or degrees, which can help you build a robust network as well be great learning opportunities for you.

STEP 4: Corporate Training

You can undertake a corporate training programme under any major company’s travel admission programme, and pick up the necessary skills to impress the senior management. It’s a mix of on-the-job training and learning the bare bones of the industry, and it’s the preferred method of hiring for many travel agencies and companies.

STEP 5: Travel Often

You need to showcase your abilities as a local guide or an exotic traveller. This will require you to travel to unknown places, plan small holidays for friends and families, and even explore the depths of the city you’re working in.

STEP 6: Apply for Jobs

With an internship under your belt, and having travelled across destinations, gaining some basic experience, you can now apply for jobs. You can seek help from your peers, online websites and social media platforms to find the companies you are interested in working at. Congratulations, you are now officially a Tour Manager!

Top 10 Tour Manager Certifications

Updated July 22, 2023 18 min read

Certifications are important for a tour manager in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to effectively manage tours. They also provide assurance that the manager is knowledgeable about industry best practices and safety regulations. Additionally, certifications can help tour managers stand out from other candidates when applying for positions and can be used to negotiate higher salaries. Finally, having certifications can open up opportunities for professional development and networking.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Tour Managers and discuss how they can contribute to a successful career in the field.

What are Tour Manager Certifications?

Tour Manager Certification is a qualification that has been developed to help people who are interested in becoming professional tour managers. It is designed to give individuals the knowledge and skills they need to manage tours effectively, safely and legally. The certification covers topics such as customer service, risk management, financial management and operations.

By achieving this certification, individuals can demonstrate their commitment to professionalism in the industry and prove that they possess the necessary skills to manage tours successfully. Tour Managers who have this certification are more likely to be hired for positions with greater responsibility and higher pay. They will also be better equipped to handle any problems or issues that arise during a tour as well as ensure tour participants have an enjoyable experience.

Furthermore, having this certification can open up opportunities for further career progression such as working in a supervisory role or even setting up their own business. It will also enable them to network with other professionals within the industry which could lead to further job opportunities.

Overall, Tour Manager Certification can provide individuals with the essential skills and knowledge they need to excel in their chosen profession, while also providing them with an opportunity for career advancement.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the different tour manager certification programs available in your area and find one that fits your needs and budget. Make sure that the program is accredited by the appropriate bodies and covers topics such as tour operations, customer service, budgeting, marketing, and logistics. Having a certification can help you stand out from other tour managers and make you more attractive to potential employers.

Related : What does a Tour Manager do?

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Tour Managers today.

1. International Tour Management Institute (ITMI) Certified Tour Manager

The International Tour Management Institute (ITMI) Certified Tour Manager is a professional designation for tour managers and guides. It is the only certification program in the world that is recognized by the travel industry. The ITMI Certified Tour Manager program is designed to provide tour managers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to be successful in their roles.

The ITMI Certified Tour Manager program consists of three courses: Introduction to Tour Management, Advanced Tour Management, and Professional Practices. Each course takes approximately one month to complete and includes online lectures, readings, quizzes, and exams. Upon successful completion of all three courses, students become eligible for certification as an ITMI Certified Tour Manager.

To get certified as an ITMI Certified Tour Manager, students must first complete all three courses in the program. They must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as tour operations management, customer service protocols, safety regulations, marketing strategies, and more. Once they have passed the exam they can submit their application for certification along with supporting documentation such as proof of work experience or education in tourism or hospitality management.

The cost of the ITMI Certified Tour Manager program varies depending on which institution you take it through but typically ranges from $1,500 - $2,000 USD for all three courses combined.

2. Certified Travel Industry Professional (CTIP)

Certified Travel Industry Professional (CTIP) is a professional certification program for travel industry professionals. It is administered by the Institute of Certified Travel Agents (ICTA). The certification is designed to recognize and reward individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the travel industry.

To earn the CTIP certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service, sales and marketing, business operations, and regulations. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least three years of experience in the travel industry in order to be eligible for the certification.

The cost to take the CTIP exam is $195 USD. Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive a certificate and be recognized as a Certified Travel Industry Professional.

3. Certified Tourism Ambassador Program (CTAP)

The Certified Tourism Ambassador Program (CTAP) is a professional development program designed to enhance the knowledge, skills and abilities of those involved in the tourism industry. It is a comprehensive training program that covers topics such as customer service, destination knowledge, marketing and sales, and event planning.

The CTAP program consists of three levels of certification: Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA), Certified Tourism Professional (CTP), and Master Certified Tourism Professional (MCTP). The CTA level is the entry-level certification, which requires completion of an online course and passing a multiple-choice exam. The CTP level requires completion of an additional online course and passing a more detailed exam. The MCTP level requires completion of two additional courses and passing a more detailed exam.

The cost for the CTAP program varies depending on the level desired. The CTA level costs around $90 USD, while the CTP level costs around $200 USD. The MCTP level costs around $300 USD.

In order to get certified through the CTAP program, you must first register with the organization and pay any applicable fees associated with your desired certification level. Once registered, you will have access to all of the necessary materials needed for each course or exam. Depending on how quickly you complete each course or exam, it can take anywhere from one week to several months to become certified through this program.

4. International Society of Travel and Tourism Professionals (ISTTP) Certified Tour Manager

The International Society of Travel and Tourism Professionals (ISTTP) Certified Tour Manager is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced tour managers. The certification is based on a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as customer service, tour operations, marketing, finance, risk management, and more.

To become an ISTTP Certified Tour Manager, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements which include having at least three years of experience in the tourism industry. Applicants must also pass an online examination which consists of multiple-choice questions about various aspects of tour management. Once applicants have passed the exam, they will receive their ISTTP Certified Tour Manager certificate.

The cost for taking the ISTTP Certified Tour Manager exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 USD for the exam fee itself. Additionally, there may be other fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or travel expenses if you need to take the exam at a testing center outside of your local area.

In total, it usually takes around two weeks to complete all steps necessary to become an ISTTP Certified Tour Manager. This includes submitting your application and passing the online examination. After successfully completing these steps, you will receive your certificate within four weeks.

5. National Tour Association (NTA) Certified Tour Manager

The National Tour Association (NTA) Certified Tour Manager (CTM) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the tour and travel industry. The CTM designation is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated superior knowledge and skills in the areas of tour operations, customer service, safety, marketing, and business management.

To become a CTM, you must meet certain criteria set by NTA. This includes having a minimum of three years' experience as a tour operator or tour manager; completion of at least four NTA-approved courses related to the field; and passing an exam administered by NTA. It typically takes about six months to complete all the requirements for the CTM designation.

In order to get the CTM designation, you must first submit an application to NTA along with your resume and proof of experience. Once your application is accepted, you will be required to complete four approved courses related to tour operations, customer service, safety, marketing, and business management within six months. Once these courses are completed successfully, you will then need to pass an exam administered by NTA in order to receive your CTM designation.

The cost for obtaining the CTM designation varies depending on whether you are an individual or part of an organization. Individual members can expect to pay around $500 for the application fee plus course fees while organizations may pay up to $1,000 for their applications plus course fees.

6. Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) Certified Tour Manager

The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) Certified Tour Manager is a professional certification program that recognizes the highest standards of excellence in adventure travel tour management. The certification is designed to ensure that tour managers have the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to lead successful and safe adventure travel tours.

To become an ATTA Certified Tour Manager, an individual must first complete a training program provided by an ATTA-accredited provider. This training program consists of online courses, on-site seminars, and field trips designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills required to be a successful tour manager. After completing the training program, applicants must pass a written exam administered by the ATTA. Upon passing this exam, applicants are awarded the ATTA Certified Tour Manager designation.

The cost of becoming an ATTA Certified Tour Manager varies depending on which accredited provider you choose for your training program. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1000 USD to become certified. Additionally, some providers may charge additional fees for materials or other services associated with their training programs.

In total, it typically takes 4-6 weeks to become an ATTA Certified Tour Manager once you begin your training program.

7. American Bus Association (ABA) Certified Tour Manager

The American Bus Association (ABA) Certified Tour Manager (CTM) program is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward the highest standards of tour management. A CTM is a professional who has been certified by the ABA as having achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the tour management field.

To become an ABA Certified Tour Manager, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements, including:

* At least five years of full-time employment in the tour management industry or related fields

* At least three years of experience managing tours

* Possession of a valid driver’s license

* Completion of at least 50 hours of continuing education related to tour management

* Successful completion of the ABA’s CTM examination.

Once these requirements have been met, applicants must complete an application form and submit it along with payment for the exam fee. The exam fee is $150 for members and $200 for non-members. Once approved, applicants can then take the CTM examination at any one of several testing centers across the United States. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions covering topics such as customer service, safety regulations, marketing principles, and financial management. Applicants must score at least 80% on this exam in order to become certified as an ABA Certified Tour Manager.

Once certified, CTMs are required to maintain their certification by completing at least 20 hours of continuing education every two years. This requirement helps ensure that CTMs remain up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

8. Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) Certified Tour Manager

Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) Certified Tour Manager is a professional certification program that recognizes the highest standards of tour management. It is designed to provide tour managers and their organizations with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage tours while delivering a high level of customer service.

To become DMAI Certified, individuals must complete an online course, pass an exam, and submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in tour management. The course typically takes between 10-12 hours to complete and covers topics such as customer service, marketing, operations, finance, risk management, and legal considerations. Once completed, individuals must pass an exam with a score of 70% or higher in order to receive certification.

The cost for the certification program is $495 USD. This fee includes access to the online course materials as well as the exam fee. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals will receive a certificate from DMAI recognizing them as a Certified Tour Manager.

9. Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Certified Tour Manager

The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Certified Tour Manager (CTM) program is a professional certification program that provides tour managers with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage tours and travel programs. The CTM program is designed to help tour managers develop the necessary skills to lead successful and safe tours, provide excellent customer service, and create memorable experiences for their customers.

The CTM program consists of an online course, which is divided into four modules: Tour Planning & Preparation, Tour Execution & Management, Risk Management & Safety, and Customer Service. The course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete, depending on the individual’s learning speed. Upon completion of the course, participants must pass a final exam in order to receive their certification.

To get certified as a PCMA CTM, you must first register for the online course through the PCMA website. The cost of registration is $299 USD. After completing the course and passing the final exam, you will receive your certification from PCMA. Certification must be renewed every two years by completing additional training courses or attending conferences related to tour management.

10. Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Certified Tour Manager

Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Certified Tour Manager is a certification program designed to recognize the achievements of tour managers who have demonstrated excellence in their profession. The certification is awarded by MPI, a leading global association for meeting and event professionals.

The certification process requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge and experience in the areas of tour management, customer service, safety and security, risk management, budgeting and financial management, and marketing. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by MPI.

The application process takes approximately two months to complete. Applicants must submit an application form along with proof of experience in the field of tour management. They must also pay a fee of $250 USD for the exam and processing fees. Once the application has been approved, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to take the exam.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as tour operations, customer service, safety and security, risk management, budgeting and financial management, marketing strategies, communication skills, problem solving skills, and more. Candidates must score at least 70% or higher on the exam in order to be certified as a Tour Manager by MPI.

Once certified as a Tour Manager by MPI, professionals can use the designation “MPI Certified Tour Manager” on their resume or business cards. This certification is valid for three years after which candidates must renew their certification by submitting proof of continuing education credits earned during that period.

Do You Really Need a Tour Manager Certificate?

The short answer is no. A tour manager certificate is not required in order to become a tour manager, but it may be beneficial depending on your situation.

For those who are looking to enter the field of tour managing, having a certificate can be a great way to demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills needed for success. It also shows potential employers that you are dedicated to learning more about the industry, and that you take your career seriously. With a tour manager certificate, you can demonstrate your commitment to customer service and professionalism.

In some cases, having a tour manager certificate can also provide an advantage over other applicants when applying for jobs. Many employers prefer applicants with some kind of formal training or certification in order to give them assurance that they will be hiring someone who is knowledgeable about the industry. Additionally, having a certificate may also put you ahead of other candidates who don’t have one when competing for positions with limited slots available.

On the other hand, if you already have experience working as a tour manager or related field and feel confident in your abilities, then getting certified may not be necessary for you. Employers understand that experience can often trump education when it comes to hiring decisions, so if you have plenty of practical knowledge then skipping the certification process may be an option for you.

Ultimately, whether or not obtaining a tour manager certificate is right for you depends on your individual circumstances and goals as a professional in this field. It’s important to weigh all of your options before making any decisions so that you can make sure that whatever path you choose is best suited to helping reach your career objectives.

Related : Tour Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Tour Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Tour Manager Certification?

A1. A Tour Manager Certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual has the knowledge and skills needed to successfully manage tours and travel related activities. The certification is typically offered by professional organizations or educational institutions and requires successful completion of a course, exam, or other assessment.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Tour Manager?

A2. To become certified as a Tour Manager, you will need to complete an approved training program and pass an exam or other assessment to prove your knowledge and skills in the area of tour management. Depending on the organization offering the certification, you may also need to have relevant experience in tour management.

Q3. What topics are covered in a Tour Manager Certification?

A3. Topics covered in a Tour Manager Certification can vary but typically include customer service, group dynamics, risk management, tour planning and operations, budgeting and financial management, marketing fundamentals, legal aspects of tourism, industry standards and guidelines, cultural sensitivity, and more.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified as a Tour Manager?

A4. The amount of time it takes to get certified as a Tour Manager depends on the specific program you enroll in; however most programs require between one and three months of study time for completion.

Q5. Are there any special requirements for becoming certified as a Tour Manager?

A5: Yes - depending on the organization offering the certification program there may be additional requirements such as having prior work experience in tour management or submitting letters of recommendation from colleagues or employers in order to qualify for certification.

Editorial staff

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.