Career Profile

Tour Guides and Escorts

What they do:

Escort individuals or groups on sightseeing tours or through places of interest, such as industrial establishments, public buildings, and art galleries.

Also Called:

Art Museum Docent, Discovery Guide, Docent, Guide, Historical Interpreter, Museum Docent, Museum Educator, Museum Guide, Science Interpreter, Tour Guide, Art Museum Docent, Discovery Guide, Docent, Guide, Historical Interpreter, Museum Docent, Museum Educator, Museum Guide, Science Interpreter, Tour Guide

Typical Tasks

Describe tour points of interest to group members, and respond to questions.
Provide directions and other pertinent information to visitors.
Research various topics, including site history, environmental conditions, and clients' skills and abilities to plan appropriate expeditions, instruction, and commentary.
Escort individuals or groups on cruises, sightseeing tours, or through places of interest, such as industrial establishments, public buildings, or art galleries.
Conduct educational activities for school children.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Social
Working with people
Enterprising
Business based Work
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Self-Control
Adaptability/Flexibility
Cooperation
Concern for Others
Dependability
Attention to Detail

What key skills are needed for this job?

Speaking
Social Perceptiveness
Active Listening
Service Orientation
Coordination
Time Management

Expected Knowledge

Customer and Personal Service

Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

History and Archeology

Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.

Common Activities

Performing for or Working Directly with the Public

Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

Getting Information

Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Communicating with People Outside the Organization

Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 3

Medium Preparation Needed

Education

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Associate's degree 31%
  • Bachelor's degree 30%
  • High school diploma 22%
  • Post-secondary certificate 8%
  • Less than high school 4%
  • Other 5%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

Add Tour Guides and Escorts to your favorites?

Add to favorites

More Info

wcidwtm logo

Explore 106 major profiles, common career paths and strategies to maximize opportunities.

Visit Site
(opens in new tab)
mynextmove-p-500 logo

Search career information in detail by keywords, browse by industry, or via your interests.

Visit Site
(opens in new tab)
careeronestop logo

Explore career options, find training and education, plan for your job search and find local help and services.

Visit Site
(opens in new tab)
blsooh logo

The Occupational Outlook Handbook - browse occupations and resources and explore occupation groups.

Visit Site
(opens in new tab)
onet logo

The nation's primary source of occupational information. Complete data and information breakdowns for all careers.

Visit Site
(opens in new tab)