Travel Agents


Hospitality and Tourism > Travel Agents > Working Conditions
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Travel Agents

Travel Agents - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, travel agents:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Have a high level of social contact. They spend most of the day talking to customers.
  • May sometimes deal with angry or unpleasant customers.
  • Communicate with customers daily by telephone, e-mail, or in person.
  • Are sometimes placed in conflict situations.
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  • Write letters and memos on a weekly basis.
  • Work in a group or as part of a team.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Work indoors most of the time.
  • Work somewhat close to other people, such as when sharing office space.

Work Performance

  • Must be highly exact in their work. Errors could cost customers money.
  • Repeat the same tasks, such as answering phones and using computers.
  • Must repeat the same activities.
  • Often make decisions that affect customers. They consult supervisors for some decisions, but make most without talking to a supervisor.
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  • Are able to set some tasks for the day without consulting with a supervisor.
  • Are highly competitive with other travel agents.
  • Must meet strict deadlines on a weekly basis.

Hours/Travel

  • Generally have a set schedule each week.
  • May work full time or part time, but most work 40 hours a week.
  • May work more than 40 hours a week if self-employed.
  • May work evenings and weekends, when people have time to plan vacations.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.