5 Amazing Advantages of the Hospitality and Tourism Industry

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The tourism industry and the hospitality profession are certainly attractive at first glance. You work with what you love; food, refreshments, entertainment and great customer service. You are in a business that values the client, and puts his or her satisfaction above all else. The nature of this business ensures that most of the people you deal with are polite and in their best spirit. Who wouldn’t be, since they’re on vacation?

Yes, there are challenges to overcome and the complexity of the career might scare some away. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the demand for these positions is inclining, even while the demand for managers and travel agents declines. You’re also talking about a profession that starts with as little as $21,600 per year. Is it an uphill battle? Sometimes, but once you pass the initial hurdles, you will start to see some benefits.

1. The Perks of the Tourism Industry

This is a job that is truly diverse. You will meet people of all backgrounds and cultures and the human element will have its own unique experiences. Anyone who says there’s no money in tourism obviously hasn’t reached a title that pays good money! You have to work for it, and endure the high-stress experiences that bigger job titles demand. However, this is an industry built on luxury and the finer things in life.

2. Lots of Overtime

Even if you’re just starting out, you will likely get to make more than enough money in overtime, which is a necessary part of the profession. Many of your future bosses are unable to pay for extra employees and will gladly pay their staff more money, even double their hourly salary, for extra work.

3. Incentives and Bonuses

Another perk is in the travel incentives available to you. Some employers will give you bonuses like cheap room rates, discount meals, travel savings and coupons on hotel rooms. This is money in your pocket in a slightly different way, but who can deny it’s a lot of fun getting free plane tickets and a hotel stay with your latest paycheck?

4. This is a Busy Industry

While you might hear about nationwide shortages, you are unlikely to be out of work for long since practically every town and city has an abundance of hotels, motels, restaurants and even caravan parks. This makes for an industry that’s easier to enter than the norm, given the local opportunities and the smaller market—that means you are not as much of a risk to hire.

5. Promotion is Always within Your Grasp

This is an industry where you can direct your own path, gain experience, and move on if you’re not feeling utilized to your full potential. This is a profession that encourages “cross training”, meaning you can acquire skills in multiple areas, eventually becoming a multitalented worker that can fit a variety of hospitality and tourism industry positions.

If you can finish your assignments and earn trust with your superiors, you can go a long way and eventually become a manager. This is a profession with plenty of advantages if you study the business.