Reservationist positions can be found in a wide range of settings. The tourism industry employs the majority of reservationists. Reservations jobs can also be found in the food and beverage industry, such as in hotels and restaurants. Those who can work as a travel clerk or a ticket agent can work as airline reservationists. Other companies that hire reservationists include spas and salons, car rental companies, and any other company that needs to schedule appointments.
Job descriptions for reservationists vary. Hotel reservationist jobs differ from airline reservationist jobs, for example, despite the fact that their products are similar. A hotel reservationist must be familiar with the hotel’s suites and services, whereas an airline reservationist must be familiar with flight schedules and ticketing procedures.
The qualifications and experience needed to work as a reservationist can also differ. High school students or friends and family members may be hired a local mom-and-pop restaurant. A Manhattan bistro or lounge, on the other hand, might have more stringent hiring requirements. Potential reservationists might be hired and put through a training program an airline.
Many times, reservationist training courses weed out applicants who don’t have enough potential to compensate for a lack of experience. These training programs typically include both classroom lectures and on-the-job training. After the course, tests are given out. Those who do not pass are usually paid a training wage for the hours they work, but they are not considered for jobs.
When guests call or come into the business, a reservationist may be the first person they speak with. As a result, this employee must have a pleasant and professional demeanor. His communication skills must be exceptional, and he must be meticulous and well-organized. Reservationists are required to use multi-line phone systems, which necessitates patience when the phone is ringing nonstop. A level head is required to coordinate appointments for hundreds of people in a crowded restaurant, resort, or airplane.
More than just making reservations and appointments is what a reservationist does. He is in charge of taking messages, coordinating deliveries, and placing orders for supplies. He is responsible for handling and recording guest complaints and suggestions. The reservationist, who is often regarded as a manager’s right-hand man, also relays messages and tasks to other employees.
Most reservationist jobs do not have strict educational requirements, so interested job applicants do not need a college diploma. An applicant’s experience in a similar field may be expected instead. An associate’s degree or a history of business or communications courses may be required for lead reservation positions, but this is unlikely.
Reservationist salaries vary greatly depending on the industry and employer. Ticket agents and travel clerks are typically paid an hourly wage various airlines. A modest annual salary may be paid to a hotel reservationist. Tips could account for the majority of a restaurant reservationist’s earnings. Reservationists may be paid a base wage plus commission a resort or car rental company.