Ace Your Travel & Tourism Interview: 10 Must-Know Tips to Land the Job

The travel and tourism world is fast-paced, people-driven, and full of adventure. But behind the glamour lies a competitive industry where employers expect knowledge, professionalism, and top-notch customer service. If you’re preparing for a job interview in this space, this guide is your ticket to getting it right.

1. Get the Big Picture: Understand the Industry

Before anything else, learn the basics of how this global industry operates.
Understand:

• Segments like leisure, business travel, adventure tourism, and MICE.
  
• Key players: Airlines, OTAs, tour operators, and hotel chains.
  
• Revenue models like commissions, packages, and ancillary services.

2. Research the Employer Thoroughly

Tailor your answers with specifics.

• What services do they offer (domestic vs. international, corporate vs. leisure)?
  
• Have they won awards? Opened new branches?
  
• Follow them on social media and check their website/blog.

3. Stay Updated on Travel Trends

Interviewers want candidates who are plugged into the future.

• Eco-tourism and sustainable travel
  
• Digital innovations: AI chatbots, virtual tours
  
• Trending destinations for Indian travelers

4. Revise Basic Geography & Key Destinations

Don’t be caught off guard when they ask about:

• Top destinations (Dubai, Paris, Goa, Bali, etc.)
  
• Visa-free countries for Indian passport holders
  
• Major international airports and airline hubs
  

5. Know Your Way Around Travel Documents

Essential for operations, visa desk, or ticketing roles.

• Common visa types (tourist, transit, Schengen)
  
• Travel insurance, passport rules, entry requirements

6. Show Off Your Customer Service Mindset

This industry thrives on happy customers.

• Think of examples where you handled a tough guest or resolved an issue.
  
• Highlight empathy, patience, and clear communication.

7. Be Familiar with Industry Tools & Tech

Tech knowledge is a big plus.

• GDS systems like Amadeus, Sabre, Galileo
  
• Online booking platforms, CRM tools
  
• Virtual meeting tools or itinerary planning software.

8. Get Role-Specific with Your Prep

Each job has its unique demands.

• Sales roles: Focus on targets, persuasion, and closing deals.
  
• Operations roles: Talk about ticketing flow, vendor coordination.
  
• Hospitality roles: Prioritize guest experience and etiquette.

9. Share Real Stories That Highlight Your Skills

Use the STAR method to structure answers:

• Situation, Task, Action, Result
  Examples to prepare:
  
• Last-minute cancellations
  
• Solving travel disruptions
  
• Going above and beyond for a customer.

10. Dress & Act Like a Travel Pro

Presentation matters — a lot.

• Dress smartly (business casual or formal, depending on the company)
  
• Smile, make eye contact, and be polite
  
• Show enthusiasm for both the job and the industry.

FAQ’s