To work as a travel agent, you must:

Complete a high school diploma or GED;

Complete on-the-job training;

Have excellent interpersonal skills; and

Be self-motivated

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.

TRAVEL AGENTS will:

Often visit several hotels, resorts, and restaurants on their own

Constantly interact with customers

May work more than 40 hours a week if self-employed

Many have a bachelor's degree

Usually train through six- to twelve-week programs

May need to be registered or certified

Most work for travel agencies

About 14 percent are self-employed

TRAVEL AGENTS frequently:

Sit for long periods of time.

It is important that TRAVEL AGENTS be able to:

Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

Understand the speech of another person.

See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.