DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY F
rom sales software to marketing emails, everyone uses digital technology to reach customers and manage bookings – so there’s a huge
variety of jobs in creating, maintaining and developing tech solutions. Established tech includes e-commerce, which powers how most
customers make their bookings – from swiping and searching on mobiles to receiving booking confirmations. Web developers and designers are responsible for creating and maintaining websites, while apps are another avenue for IT skills as developers build transport, attraction and hotel mobile interfaces. Data analytics and security are also crucial to the success
of travel businesses. Tasks include collecting and assessing data, such as business insights around the most searched-for travel destinations, to help travel companies improve their services and marketing. There are also plenty of opportunities for innovation and AI-powered tech. Roles here might focus on using
new technology to increase revenue, solve problems and enhance the customer experience; while virtual reality is growing as the metaverse is being used to entice visitors to book real-life travel experiences. AI is already in use by many online travel agents, hotel companies, airlines and more to manage bookings, plan trips and answer customer questions – but the true range of its applications is only just beginning.
SELLING TRAVEL T
hose who sell travel can range from travel agents working in a shop or based from
their homes to those fulfilling bookings on the phone or digitally for online travel firms. Some travel agents prefer the terms ‘travel
advisor’ or ‘consultant’ to reflect their valuable knowledge and expertise. They are an essential link between the traveller, UK-based tour operators or wholesalers, and the wealth of suppliers around the world. They can recommend the best flights, hotels, tours, packages and destinations for a client’s needs and budget. They manage the booking from start to
finish, problem-solve if issues arise and must combine customer service skills, business acumen and industry expertise. Travel agents might earn a salary or they
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can set themselves up as a small business, earning their income through commission paid by the supplier – such as a hotel or tour operator – when a booking is made. Some specialise in certain types of travel, such
as cruise, luxury travel or honeymoons, while others might be experts in a particular destination. To increase their knowledge of the
destinations and hotels they sell, travel advisors regularly take part in training, network with key suppliers and occasionally go on familiarisation trips to key destinations. There are also plenty of in-house roles working
for a tour operator or cruise line, selling holidays direct to consumers and hitting the company’s sales targets, while also making sure travellers get to have the holiday they’ve been dreaming of.
takeoffintravel.co.uk
PICTURES: Shutterstock/NicoElNino, Yuri A -
Peopleimages.com, GaudiLab
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