Booking secretary, travel agency salary

Working as a Booking Secretary at a Travel Agency

Working as a booking secretary at a travel agency involves assisting customers in planning and booking their trips. This includes everything from finding and booking flights, hotels, and rental cars to providing advice on destinations and travel routes. Booking secretaries, also known as travel agents or traffic assistants, often play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for their clients.

Salary for Booking Secretaries, Travel Agency

The average salary for a booking secretary at a travel agency is 32 500 kronor per month. There is a slight difference between genders, with women earning an average of 32 600 kronor, while men earn 32 400 kronor. Women thus earn 101% of what men do in this profession. Hourly employees can expect an hourly wage of around 195 kronor, based on 166 working hours per month.

Salary Development and Disparities

There has been a positive change in salary development for booking secretaries, with the average salary increasing from 31 800 to 32 500 kronor compared to previous measurements. The highest recorded salary for a man in the public sector with post-secondary education shorter than three years is 36800 kronor, while the highest salary for a woman in the same category is 36100 kronor. On the other hand, the lowest salary for a woman with pre-secondary education in the state sector is 28600 kronor, and for a man is 30500 kronor.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a booking secretary at a travel agency, a high school education is often required, preferably with a focus on tourism or service. Experience in customer service and good communication skills are also important. Some employers may also require post-secondary education in tourism or related fields. Having good language skills, especially in English, is an advantage as it facilitates communication with both international customers and suppliers.

Working Conditions and Benefits

Booking secretaries usually work in offices, but with the possibility to work from home depending on the employer's policy. It is important to be service-oriented and have the ability to handle stressful situations, as the job may sometimes involve managing multiple bookings simultaneously. Benefits may include discounted travel, which can be a significant advantage for those interested in travel.

Future Outlook and Challenges

The future outlook for booking secretaries at travel agencies is relatively stable, although digitization has led many customers to now book their trips directly online. This means that the profession may entail new challenges, such as adapting to and integrating new technological solutions into daily work. However, there is always a need for knowledgeable and experienced travel agents who can provide personal service and expertise.

Considerations for Those Considering a Career as a Booking Secretary

For those considering a career as a booking secretary, it is important to be aware that the profession requires a high degree of accuracy and customer service. The ability to quickly solve problems and handle stressful situations is also crucial. Having a passion for travel and a desire to help others experience the world can be a significant advantage in this profession.

Competition within the Profession

Competition within the profession can be tough, especially as many are drawn to the tourism industry out of interest in travel and cultures. Having a strong educational background and relevant work experience can provide an advantage in job seeking. Digital competence and the ability to use various booking systems are also important skills that can enhance job opportunities.

In conclusion, the profession of a booking secretary at a travel agency offers an opportunity to work with something as dynamic and exciting as travel. With the right qualifications and a service-oriented attitude, it can be a rewarding career for the right person.