Script:
Mick now goes on to describe the characteristics and skills needed in the industry.
Chloe: And what sort of characteristics and skills do you look for when you need to put someone on staff?
Mick: The main characteristic you need for both tourism and hospitality is, obviously, the ability to like and get on with people. And when I say that it’s important to add that that means people from all walks of life and all nationalities. English is essential, of course, for all of the jobs in the industry but a second language will be a huge advantage to you over those who only speak English. Another characteristic I believe is really crucial is enthusiasm-for having fun, enjoying the job and being a leader or decision maker.
Chloe: What do you mean by ‘decision maker’?
Mick: Well you won’t just be showing people to their rooms, taking busloads of tourists around or managing minor complaints. You may be expected to negotiate costings and budgets and make decisions about marketing strategies, negotiate client needs for both small and large functions and be pretty clear about what your company can provide and what they cannot. The list goes on, but the more skills you have will allow you to choose between jobs and demand reasonable working conditions.
Chloe: So, could you go through some of the types of jobs there are in the tourism and hospitality industry?
Mick: Sure, although there really are so many. So, there’s my current job-Events and Convention Manager-a position you’ll find in both industries. Cultural Heritage Officer falls under tourism and they basically assess places and objects of cultural significance and are also involved in determining how such objects or places may be utilised in the tourist industry. Language interpreters work across both industries-and really the job title speaks for itself. Hospitality Managers again work across both industries but you will find them mainly in hotels, motels, and resorts. They basically oversee everything and so naturally enough it’s not a job you apply for unless you have had experience across the whole industry. There are also lots of other jobs such as waiters, chefs and bar staff who all work within the hospitality industry.
Chloe: Well, I think there must be a career for me amongst all those possibilities. I had no idea there was such a range of job options and we haven’t even touched on restaurant work, bar work and that sort of thing.
Mick: Well that’s right. If you did want more information or just see how things operate here I would be more than happy for you to (fade out) spend a week here to get first hand knowledge.
Mick lists a number of jobs in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry. For each job listed choose the appropriate industry.