Your Industry Opportunity Cheat Sheet
When I first started working in tourism, I was shocked to learn there are over 400 job occupations to choose from (go2HR, Career Explorer). For those new to the industry, it can be overwhelming to know where to start and for those feeling restless, there are plenty of other experiences to choose from. Whatever your passion is, there is something to find in tourism and hospitality, particularly as the market continues to recover and add new roles. Here’s a short discovery guide to help you get started in finding your dream job.
DO YOU LIKE HELPING PEOPLE? EAGER TO CREATE A WELCOMING EXPERIENCE?
Accommodation is the third largest sector for employment growth and opportunities in the tourism industry and is one of the sectors surpassing pre-Covid employment levels. From working at the front desk and ensuring your guests have an accommodating experience as they enjoy their stay to making people feel “at home”, you can find work with hotels, lodges, resorts, bed and breakfasts, and even campgrounds. Many hospitality workplaces require front-of-house staff who love to interact with guests while making their stay memorable.
DO YOU HAVE A PASSION FOR COOKING? LOVE FOOD, WINE, AND SPIRITS?
The food and beverage industry is the largest hospitality sector, encompassing restaurants, bars, pubs and everything in between such as cafes and bakeries. Are you passionate about cooking and dreaming of becoming a chef? Or maybe you enjoy interacting with guests so that they have a great dining experience? From chefs to servers to sommeliers and nightclub managers, there is a wide variety of opportunities in food and beverage for people who love working in a fast-paced environment. Cooks and chefs are the most sought-after positions in both the food and beverage and accommodation sectors and the roles need more female representation.
DO YOU WANT TO WORK IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS WHERE YOU CAN ENJOY SCENIC VIEWS? OR MAYBE YOU WANT TO SHARE YOUR EXPERTISE?
Recreation and entertainment is one of the most diverse industries and the second largest for employment opportunities. This industry is made up of museums, casinos, attractions, ski resorts, and so much more. If you want to avoid a desk job and enjoy the great outdoors, or be able to share your specialized knowledge and passion as a guide, then consider exploring this growing industry.
DO YOU HAVE DREAMS OF WORKING FOR AN AIRLINE OR A CRUISE SHIP?
If you got into travel with the goal of travelling for work, the transportation sector could be a great fit. Transportation isn’t just about helping people get from A to B, it’s also about offering a pleasurable guest experience and ensuring they arrive at their destination safely. Getting paid to travel and explore new places is perfect for those with the agility to get up and go.
DO YOU LOVE TRAVEL PLANNING?
If you love planning trips, consider working in travel services. You have the opportunity to interact with guests and creatively plan trips from flights to accommodations, cruise ships and tours, and more. For those who enjoy organizing activities, there are roles in event planning too. From working in conferences to festivals and local fairs, there are flexible opportunities in this sector to showcase your organizational skills and still serve the tourism industry.
Whatever you’re looking for, there are so many occupations to explore and choose from. And the best part is that you don’t have to work inside an office or be tied to 9-5 if you don’t want to be. You can explore more career opportunities in B.C.’s tourism and hospitality industry by visiting go2HR’s career explorer page and job board.
ABOUT CONNIE:
Connie has a communications background with experience in marketing. She specializes in writing communications and social media, and using her creativity to promote programs and services. She is passionate about working alongside professional women in tourism and hospitality.