If you are a tourism professional, you know that learning new skills is very important. Our industry is impacted by changes in technology and the need for new tools to make businesses more efficient. Those interested in continuing education are often faced with tough decisions. How do you find the time to provide educational training opportunities for your staff? If you are an employee, how can you learn new skills to help you take the next step in your career?
Reasons for Continuing Education in Tourism
I was recently listening to a podcast on whether it makes more sense to invest in yourself or financial instruments such as stocks and bonds. The conclusion was that new skills that help you earn more money will provide a much better return on investment. The podcast interviewee, Michael Kitses also said that a degree is valuable because of the skills and personal growth you acquire along the way, not the degree itself.
I have also seen the tourism industry evolving towards people acting as contractors instead of employees. Those most likely to succeed in this changing world will be those with the most skills.
Online Education for Tourism Professionals
Several online training companies have sprung up in the last few years. Here’s a look at some online programs for that would work well for small business owners, DMO’s and attractions staff. Each of the links will give you a free or reduced rate trial offer so you can check them all out and see what platform works best for you.
These items have affiliate links which means I get a small commission for anything you purchase. It does not affect your pricing at all.
Skillshare
Advantages: Affordable (only $10 a month) and geared toward those who learn better when engaged rather than lectured to, Skillshare has been growing in popularity when it comes to training for tourism professionals. Subscribers have unlimited access to thousands of online classes, allowing them to go at their own pace. If you want to try it for free, use this link for 2 free months of Skillshare premium.
Disadvantages: The biggest shortfall of Skillshare is that users aren’t provided with much guidance. While this may be considered an advantage by those who don’t need much direction, others don’t effectively learn when using a self-serve continuing education platform. The instructional videos also vary in length, so it’s not always easy to set a schedule.
Udemy
Advantages: Unlike other continuing education platforms, you don’t need any prerequisites when using Udemy. That’s right. You can watch any online course anywhere and anytime, which means you can go as fast or as slow as you please. Most courses are affordable and they’re backed by a 30 day money-back guarantee. Some classes are even accredited, unlike Skillshare courses.
Disadvantages: The downfall of Udemy is the price. While other continuing education platforms only require a monthly fee, Udemy charges based on the course you’re taking. However, this may be seen as an advantage by those who are looking for a bit more of a challenge or classes that are verified and certified.
Lynda.com
Once you complete a course it can be posted directly to your LinkedIn profile as well. I think that is a great way for others to see that you are a lifelong learner.
Disadvantages: Unfortunately, a basic Lynda.com subscription won’t allow you to download files so you can watch them when offline. Your device must be connected to the internet in order to watch Lynda.com tutorials. If you want to be able to download courses, you’ll need to upgrade to the $375/year Premium subscription.
Final thoughts
The proper type of training for tourism professionals comes down to the individual. This is why it’s recommended you ask yourself some questions before enrolling or signing up for any of the above continuing education platforms. For example, you’ll want to ask yourself how much time you’ll be able to devote to learning, how much you can afford to spend and how in-depth you want to go. Once you answer those 3 questions, making a decision will be easy!
Additional articles:
Why you should invest in lifelong learning for your employees