Personal holiday advisor inspires students

An experienced personal holiday advisor shared some of the secrets of her successful career with Walsall College’s travel and tourism students.

Jessica Cope from Virgin Holidays delivered a guest speaker session covering everything from the importance of excellent customer service and destination knowledge to representing a company brand.  With international travel to the US starting up again following lockdown restrictions, she described how representatives across the travel industry reacted on hearing the news.

Her session was designed to help students prepare for upcoming role play assessments, which will see them act as a travel adviser selling a holiday.

Jessica who has worked in the industry for over ten years said:  “I was pleased to meet these upcoming industry professionals and explain how building a rapport with a fantastic base of loyal customers over the years has been so rewarding.  As travel restrictions continue to ease, people can’t wait to get moving again, experiencing their dream holidays.  This means exciting times are ahead for anyone looking to work in travel and tourism who has the knowledge, enthusiasm and customer-focus values so essential to our industry.”

Jessica also spoke to students about the benefits of working for Virgin, particularly the destinations employees get to travel to. She provided an overview of Virgin Holidays’ recruitment process and training, including being fitted for the signature red Vivian Westwood uniform.   Makeup and grooming tips were also revealed to ensure employees represent the iconic Virgin brand and look professional at all times.