Commentary
Commentary is a key skill in tour guiding where guides provide informative and engaging explanations about places, history, culture, and points of interest to tourists. It involves the art of storytelling, sharing facts, and explaining significance in a way that keeps visitors interested. This could be done live (in-person narration) or recorded (audio guides). Good commentary combines accurate information with entertaining delivery, helping tourists understand and connect with what they're seeing.
Examples in Resumes
Delivered engaging Commentary for groups of up to 50 tourists on historical walking tours
Created and recorded Audio Commentary for city bus tours in three languages
Developed specialized Tour Commentary focusing on local architecture and cultural heritage
Typical job title: "Tour Guides"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Tour Guides
Professional Associations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle difficult or emergency situations while maintaining professional commentary?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in managing unexpected situations while keeping tourists calm and informed, such as weather changes, venue closures, or medical emergencies, while maintaining professional communication.
Q: How do you train new guides in delivering effective commentary?
Expected Answer: Should discuss mentoring techniques, sharing best practices for research and delivery, and methods for helping new guides develop their own commentary style while maintaining accuracy.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you adapt your commentary for different audiences?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they modify language, content, and delivery style for different groups like families, seniors, or international visitors.
Q: How do you keep your commentary fresh and engaging when doing the same tour repeatedly?
Expected Answer: Look for answers about rotating stories, incorporating current events, and maintaining enthusiasm through different techniques.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the key elements of good tour commentary?
Expected Answer: Should mention clear speaking, accurate information, engaging storytelling, and appropriate pacing.
Q: How do you prepare your commentary for a new tour route?
Expected Answer: Should discuss research methods, organizing information, and practicing delivery.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic route knowledge
- Clear speaking voice
- Basic storytelling ability
- Knowledge of main attractions
Mid (2-4 years)
- Multiple language capabilities
- Advanced knowledge of local history
- Group management skills
- Ability to handle unexpected situations
Senior (5+ years)
- Training and mentoring ability
- Expert knowledge of multiple routes
- Crisis management
- Tour development and customization
Red Flags to Watch For
- Poor communication skills or unclear speaking voice
- Lack of basic knowledge about local attractions
- Inability to engage with different types of audiences
- Poor time management skills
- No interest in continuous learning about local history and culture
Related Terms
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