What are the key skills and competencies for tourism leaders and managers in the 21st century?

1 Strategic thinking and vision

One of the most important skills for tourism leaders and managers is strategic thinking and vision, which means the ability to analyze the current situation, identify the goals and objectives, and plan the actions and resources to achieve them. Strategic thinking and vision also involve anticipating the future scenarios and risks, and designing innovative and sustainable solutions. Tourism leaders and managers can develop their strategic thinking and vision by engaging in continuous learning, research, and networking, as well as by seeking feedback and mentoring from experts and peers.

2 Communication and collaboration

Another essential skill for tourism leaders and managers is communication and collaboration, which means the ability to express, listen, and exchange ideas and information effectively, both verbally and non-verbally, across different platforms and audiences. Communication and collaboration also involve building and maintaining positive and productive relationships with internal and external partners, such as staff, customers, suppliers, regulators, and communities. Tourism leaders and managers can improve their communication and collaboration skills by practicing active listening, empathy, and cultural sensitivity, as well as by using appropriate tools and techniques, such as storytelling, social media, and online platforms.

3 Leadership and management

A third key skill for tourism leaders and managers is leadership and management, which means the ability to inspire, motivate, and guide others to achieve a common vision and goals. Leadership and management also involve setting clear expectations, delegating tasks, providing feedback, resolving conflicts, and recognizing achievements. Tourism leaders and managers can enhance their leadership and management skills by developing their emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and ethical values, as well as by adopting different styles and approaches, such as coaching, mentoring, and empowerment.

4 Creativity and innovation

A fourth crucial skill for tourism leaders and managers is creativity and innovation, which means the ability to generate, implement, and evaluate new ideas and solutions that add value and improve the quality and performance of the tourism sector. Creativity and innovation also involve embracing change, diversity, and uncertainty, and fostering a culture of learning and experimentation. Tourism leaders and managers can boost their creativity and innovation skills by exposing themselves to different sources of inspiration, such as trends, best practices, and customer feedback, as well as by applying various methods and tools, such as brainstorming, prototyping, and testing.

5 Digital literacy and technology

A fifth vital skill for tourism leaders and managers is digital literacy and technology, which means the ability to use, understand, and leverage the potential of digital tools and platforms to enhance the tourism experience and operations. Digital literacy and technology also involve staying updated on the latest developments and trends in the digital landscape, such as artificial intelligence, big data, and blockchain, and assessing their implications and opportunities for the tourism sector. Tourism leaders and managers can increase their digital literacy and technology skills by acquiring relevant knowledge and skills, such as data analysis, web design, and online marketing, as well as by integrating digital solutions into their strategies and processes.

6 Sustainability and social responsibility

A sixth important skill for tourism leaders and managers is sustainability and social responsibility, which means the ability to balance the economic, environmental, and social impacts and benefits of tourism activities, and to contribute to the well-being of the destinations and communities. Sustainability and social responsibility also involve complying with the ethical and legal standards and norms of the tourism sector, and engaging in dialogue and cooperation with the relevant stakeholders. Tourism leaders and managers can develop their sustainability and social responsibility skills by adopting a holistic and long-term perspective, as well as by implementing best practices and initiatives, such as green tourism, social tourism, and quality assurance.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?