Facts and fiction

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FACT: Like many industries, entry-level positions in tourism may pay minimum wages but, unlike many industries, there are often benefits such as discounts on meals, hotels, etc. Tourism positions above entry level often pay well in comparison to other industries and promotion is quick in this industry (the majority of supervisors and managers in the tourism industry are in their 20s). Many factors determine what you'll earn, such as job, location, type of business and your education and training.

 

FACT: People who have a job in the tourism industry may work weekends, holidays or nights, but doctors, nurses, lawyers, bankers, engineers and graphic designers do too! Besides, it can be nice to be on the beach during the day while other people are at work! Tourism jobs do often offer flexibility for people who want to work part-time, or different hours to normal office hours, but full-time jobs are also available in all areas. People in supervisory positions in particular generally work more traditional schedules.

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FACT: Many tourism occupations involve working with the public, but there are numerous jobs behind the scenes in tourism where employees have little direct contact with tourists. People in purchasing, research, marketing, technology or cooking positions may deal with outside clients but not necessarily tourists.

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FACT: The variety of occupations found within each area of tourism is as diverse as the sectors themselves. The nature of the work varies from climbing mountains to developing marketing strategies or preparing gourmet meals. Tourism offers something for everyone, with varying levels of responsibility.

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FACT: Most entry-level positions in the tourism industry do not require a university degree, but other forms of education and training are usually necessary. Many occupations require skills that must be learned and practised. There are many routes to learning and, depending on the occupation you choose, you may achieve a management position through on-the-job training, a college certificate or a combination of these.

FACT: A degree demonstrates your ability to learn, think and organise yourself to complete tasks, and it can help you move more quickly into supervisory and management positions. But in today's economy, few people, even those with a university degree, step into a management position without a lot of practical experience behind them.