This advanced Level 7 Executive Diploma in Travel and Tourism takes place over a series of 18 modules, as outlined in brief below:
Module 1 - An introduction to Travel & Tourism
The course begins with a detailed examination of the contemporary travel and tourism sector, in which candidates also consider the various different types of tourism. The advantages and disadvantages of package holidays are discussed, along with the evolution of the travel and tourism sector, the different types of tourist destinations and the popularity of self-packaged holidays.
Module 2 - Tourism Management: Tourism Products & Services
Tourism as a product is then analysed in the second module, in which candidates are presented with a detailed breakdown of the marketing mix and its components. The primary phases of the product lifecycle are also detailed and discussed, along with the most important components of the tourism product and how to establish the expectations of a target audience.
Module 3 – The Travel & Tourism System
Candidates then consider the mechanics and logistics of the global tourism system as a whole, along with the various products and service providers the sector encompasses. Examples of which include tour operators, travel management services, tour product organisers and retailers, along with how information technology has impacted the travel trade.
Module 4 - Tour Operations Management
The services provided by tour operators are examined more closely in Module Four, which highlights the potential benefits of working with travel agents when organising international travel. Guidelines for finding reputable agents are provided, along with an overview of making appropriate transportation reservations in tour operations management.
Module 5 - Travel and Tourism Marketing and Sales
A crash-course introduction to marketing and sales in the travel and tourism trade then follows, guiding candidates through the process of creating and implementing a viable marketing strategy. Several key marketing and promotional activities are discussed, along with the objectives of marketing and how to measure the effectiveness of a promotion.
Module 6 - Communication Skills
Candidates then learn how effective communication forms the core of every successful travel product and tourism brand. Topics covered include the importance of making a good first impression, tips for becoming a better listener, how to accurately interpret nonverbal messages and the appropriate use of demonstration cues.
Module 7 - Telemarketing
The advantages and disadvantages of telemarketing are then discussed, in which candidates learn how telephone sales call for an entirely different approach to conventional sales. Tips and guidelines for developing high-impact scripts are discussed, along with the importance of pre-call planning and how to build more effective listening skills.
Module 8 - Techniques for Maximum Sales
Tools and techniques for maximising the size and value of every sale are presented and discussed in Module Eight, in which candidates are familiarised with the concept of ‘smart’ selling. Productivity techniques for maximum selling are also discussed, alongside tips for getting the most out of every potential sales opportunity.
Module 9 - Importance of Quality Customer Service
Customer service as a key selling point in all areas of the travel and tourism industry is then discussed. Candidates consider the concept of quality management in travel and tourism, along with the extent to which the quality of the guest experience contributes to the performance and profitability of the entire business.
Module 10 - CRM (Customer Relationship Management)
An introduction to the concept of customer relationship management (CRM) follows in the tenth module, which focuses heavily on the benefits of customer loyalty. Candidates learn how to develop and implement an effective customer relationship management plan, while considering strategies for improved customer retention and general customer satisfaction.
Module 11 - Dealing with Difficult People
The inevitability of encountering difficult people and challenging scenarios in the travel and tourism sector is examined in Module 11. The importance of proactive conflict resolution is discussed, along with the different types of conflict, the role of communication in conflict resolution and how conflict can breed positive outcomes when handled professionally.
Module 12 - Managing Human Resources in Tourism Industry
Candidates then study the main components and characteristics of an effective human resource development strategy, along with the importance of strategic HRM in the travel and tourism sector. Key topics covered include employee training and development, HR information systems and the importance of appropriate rewards, benefits and compensation.
Module 13 - Time Management
The benefits of strategic task prioritisation are discussed in Module 13, in which candidates learn how to make better use of their time. The importance of proactively combating procrastination is also discussed, along with how to set appropriate goals using the ‘SPIRIT’ model and how working to a schedule can be advantageous.
Module 14 - Stress Management
Learners then consider how building a deeper understanding of stress holds the key to more effective stress management in high-pressure settings. Helpful strategies and techniques for improved stress management are presented and discussed, along with the potential consequences of overlooking or ignoring elevated stress levels.
Module 15 - Transport Management Systems
The logistical side of the travel and tourism sector is explored in Module 15, in which candidates consider the advantages and disadvantages of different forms of transportation. The environmental implications of transport methods are also discussed, along with the evolution of transport provision in the tourism sector and issues affecting transport management.
Module 16 - Crisis Management
Candidates then learn how to prepare and implement an appropriate crisis management plan, while considering the importance of damage limitation in times of crisis. Strategies for restoring customer confidence in the wake of a crisis are also discussed, along with the importance of developing an appropriate communications strategy and how to review security systems.
Module 17 - Managing Public Awareness Programmes
Public awareness as a primary driver of interest in major and minor tourist destinations is then explored, discussing how interest can be generated through strategic public awareness programmes. Key topics covered include local community involvement, establishing press relations, hosting workshops/seminars and more.
Module 18 - Sustainable Tourism
Concluding the course, Module 18 discusses the growing importance and relevance of sustainability in travel and tourism. The roles and responsibilities of those providing travel and tourism products are discussed, along with the potential benefits of sustainable tourism and the consequences of failing to prioritise sustainability.
