If you are working as driver in the tourism industry or if you like to start this job, read this article and get to know more about the job duties and requirements.
DMCs and the related transportation companies are taking care of the logistic of guests: leisure and business groups.
There are long distance tours lasting more days and there are one day tours. However, excursions are always organized in advance, such as the transportation facilities.
What is important to know: preparation
Concerning the tour preparation, get to know the itinerary in advance and if you don´t know the regions you are driving through, check all information on google maps.
Be informed about overnight, parking possibilities for coaches and what is included for you.
Normally the office should prepare all instructions in advance. It´s important to get all instructions and for any doubts contact your office reference or research roads, locations and facilities online.
Make sure you have all needed contact and addresses. If necessary, check if you have the permission to transit in limited areas, for example as sometimes happen in some old towns.
The uniform must be conformed to the standards requested.
Some companies or some tour operators have the own standards to be followed. In this case the office must provide all related information and instruction in advance.
Maybe there is a specific information to provide or there are standard greetings and farewells: always read all information.
Sometimes the driver must take care of the minibar and the cashout with the tour leader, so accord all duties in advance and cooperate, with the aim to work good together for the entire tour. With the understanding and coworking, the day will be easier.
What to consider on board during the tour
The day of departure check that the coach is fully equipped as requested and check the cleanliness.
Now it´s time to welcome the guests on board!
The first approach with guests is to introduce yourself and indicate them all facilities and amenities available on board, for example: toilette, coffee machine, minibar and air condition.
A quick explanation of the safety on board is recommended too.
Introduce yourself to the tour leader of the group, which normally is accompanying the organized groups for the entire journey, and remember you will work together for the entire tour. Ask the tour leader if there are special needs for the tour and double check all accorded stops.
Sometimes can be great to say something about the destination and the next stops: be proactive.
During the stops advise how long they can take a pause, at what time there is the meeting point and which facilities are available.
At the end of the journey, say goodbye and wish them a nice stay or a nice departure.
Normally there is a report to fill up for the company you are working for. Sometimes for the tour operator too.
REQUIREMENTS FOR DRIVERS WORKING IN TOURISM
The driver should speak English, mostly if guests are coming from other countries, and must have good communication skills. Of course, by driving the concentration is focusing on the road. Anyway during the stops is nice to provide few information and to have a small talk with the guests. Sometimes people are curious. This is part of the guest´s experience.
Working in tourism in not the same as for drivers working for public transportations: drivers have a different contact to guest, indeed the attitude is different and the guests must feel welcome. Therefore, politeness is highly requested.
The driver must be expert of the regions and should know all facilities as roadside stops, toilette stops and parking.
Useless to say that the drive must be comfortable. Sometimes guests are spending many hours per day on the coach. Moreover driving experience is essential for the safety on board.
Written By
Knowess International
Knowess International helps business owners and department heads working in the hospitality and restaurant industries to develop the necessary skills with targeted consulting.
