Etiquette
Etiquette refers to the proper rules of behavior, manners, and customs when dealing with tourists and clients in the tourism industry. Tour guides use etiquette to ensure visitors feel respected, comfortable, and well-cared for during their experiences. This includes understanding cultural differences, appropriate greetings, dining customs, and professional conduct. Similar terms used in the industry include "protocol," "manners," or "cultural sensitivity." Having strong etiquette skills helps tour guides create positive experiences and handle diverse groups of visitors professionally.
Examples in Resumes
Trained new guides in proper Etiquette and cultural sensitivity for international tourists
Applied international Business Etiquette when leading corporate tour groups
Maintained highest standards of Professional Etiquette while conducting VIP tours at historical sites
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 would you handle a situation where different cultures in your tour group have conflicting etiquette norms?
Expected Answer: A senior guide should explain their approach to balancing different cultural expectations, such as creating inclusive experiences, preparing groups in advance about cultural differences, and using diplomatic communication to prevent conflicts.
Q: How do you train new guides in proper etiquette standards?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating training materials, mentoring techniques, role-playing scenarios, and methods for maintaining consistent professional standards across the team.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What strategies do you use to maintain professional etiquette during challenging situations with difficult clients?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of conflict resolution, maintaining composure, and professional communication techniques while preserving service quality.
Q: How do you adapt your etiquette approach for different types of tours (corporate, family, international)?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they modify their communication style, behavioral standards, and service approach based on the specific audience needs.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic elements of professional etiquette in tour guiding?
Expected Answer: Should cover fundamentals like punctuality, appropriate dress code, proper greetings, clear communication, and basic cultural awareness.
Q: How do you prepare yourself to meet etiquette standards before a tour?
Expected Answer: Should mention personal presentation, researching group demographics, reviewing cultural considerations, and preparing appropriate language and behavior.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic professional conduct and appearance
- Standard greetings and introductions
- Following established etiquette guidelines
- Basic cultural awareness
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced cultural sensitivity
- Conflict resolution with grace
- Adapting etiquette for different groups
- Training others in basic protocols
Senior (5+ years)
- Creating etiquette standards and training programs
- Managing complex cultural situations
- High-level diplomatic skills
- VIP and corporate protocol expertise
Red Flags to Watch For
- Poor personal presentation or unprofessional appearance
- Lack of cultural awareness or sensitivity
- Inability to maintain professional composure
- Poor communication skills or inappropriate language use
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
From Farewells to Future Allies: Transforming Exit Interviews into Lifelong Connections
Rewiring Your Interview Templates for Better Candidate Experience
Cracking the Code: How to Source Talent in APAC and EMEA with Cultural Sensitivity
