If you're hoping to find your dream job as a travel agent, it's always worth trying to find out more about the specifics of the job. What sort of skills will you need? What sort of systems do travel agents need to be familiar with? One acronym you might be hearing more of in travel agent jobs is CRS, or computer reservations system. This is a computerised system used to store and retrieve information, and conduct transactions related to air travel. Though they were originally designed and utilised exclusively by airlines, many CRS's have now been adapted for use by travel agencies - making knowledge of one a very attractive point on a CV or resume. One of the most popular systems in Europe is known as Galileo.
1. Galileo
Galileo is a CRS that is widely used in Europe, and boasts 26.4% of worldwide CRS bookings. As a result, knowledge of Galileo can be very useful to applicants for travel agent jobs. Galileo was originally created by United Airlines in 1971, although it was known then as the Apollo Reservation System. While the Apollo Reservation System is still employed by United Airlines, use of the Galileo system has become much more widespread, and airline companies such as Air Lingus, Alitalia, Swissair, and Olympic Airlines use Galileo as their preferred CRS. Travel agent jobs may require knowledge of how the system works, and there are plenty of places which provide training in Galileo's operation.
2. Colleges
Colleges provide courses for students looking to begin careers in the travel industry. A good course will cover many aspects of not only the Galileo CRS, but also other related aspects of the travel industry. With modular courses becoming standard at most colleges, it's easy to find a course that can deliver the exact knowledge you need to prepare for travel agent jobs. Many courses also offer the options of full-time or part-time study, so that they can easily fit into a busy schedule. One question to bear in mind when selecting a course is whether it is industry-recognised and if, upon completion, you will receive an externally-validated certificate of your new qualification.
3. Online
There are also many websites that offer online training in Galileo and other similar CRS systems. Although learning online may not seem like the most obvious choice, Galileo's nature as an electronic system means an online course can be an effective way of familiarising yourself with it, and learning about its workings in a little more detail. Even those already in travel agent jobs should familiarise themselves online with any new CRS's to brush up on their skills. For those who want to learn Galileo, an online course can be a good option for getting to grips with the basics of the system before more in-depth training.
4. On The Job
For those already employed in travel agent jobs, one option (although not always available) is simply to learn Galileo as you go, receiving training and instruction from more experienced colleagues. Practical, hands-on use of a CRS can result in a surprising level of familiarity very quickly, especially when supported with a good training program by your company.
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