Holiday representative : Entry requirements

Working as a holiday representative does not usually require a degree/HND or any specific qualifications. Relevant skills and personal qualities are more important. Most tour operators seek candidates with experience of working in a customer service or travel and tourism role.

Although it is not required, a degree in one of the following subjects may be useful to the role:

• hospitality and tourism management;
• international tourism management;
• leisure and tourism;
• tourism business management;
• childhood studies - for a children's representative;
• modern languages.

While they are not a specific entry requirement, many tour operators do value additional language skills. This is particularly the case in countries where English is not widely spoken, as the holiday representative will often act as a link between the local community and tourists.

Experience of customer care, selling, dealing with large groups and working/travelling overseas is desirable. Employers will look to see if candidates can work in a public-facing role and therefore any evidence of that is very useful. Those who want be a children's representative should have some relevant experience in childcare and to be a qualified representative they should hold an NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in childcare. 

Potential candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• communication skills (both oral and written);
• an outgoing, confident and energetic personality;
• stamina and enthusiasm;
• listening and negotiation skills;
• a commitment to high levels of customer service;
• teamworking ability;
• a good sense of humour;
• planning and organisational skills;
• flexibility;
• common sense;
• a friendly and approachable manner;
• problem-solving ability;
• a hands-on and proactive approach.

Most tour operators recognise the Holiday Rep Ticket Diploma  online training course. It is made up of 12 modules, with a test at the end of each and covers all aspects of being a holiday representative as well as the recruitment process. It can therefore help prepare potential candidates before they apply for holiday representative jobs. 

Applications are usually accepted throughout the year but it is best to apply between October to March for the summer season and April to November for the winter season. Many tour operators recruit high season representatives to work during the busy summer months of June, July and August. These roles are ideal for students looking to work abroad during the summer and then return to their studies in the autumn term.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.