Step-on Guide
A Step-on Guide is a professional tour guide who literally "steps on" a tour bus or vehicle to provide guided services for a specific area or location. They are local experts who temporarily join organized tours to share detailed knowledge about particular destinations. Unlike tour directors who travel with groups for entire trips, step-on guides specialize in specific locations and are hired for shorter segments of longer tours. They help tour companies provide expert local information without maintaining full-time guides in every destination.
Examples in Resumes
Served as Step-on Guide for over 200 tour groups in the Boston Historic District
Worked as Step-On Guide and Local Guide for cruise ship excursions in Seattle
Professional Step-on Guide specializing in New York City architecture tours
Typical job title: "Step-on Guides"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Step-on Guides
Professional Associations
Job Resources
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Experienced Guide Questions
Q: How do you handle unexpected situations or emergencies during a tour?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, knowledge of emergency procedures, and experience managing various unexpected situations while maintaining group comfort and safety.
Q: How do you customize your tour presentation for different audience types?
Expected Answer: Should show ability to adapt tour content and presentation style for different groups (international visitors, school groups, seniors, corporate clients) while maintaining engagement and information quality.
Mid-Level Guide Questions
Q: What strategies do you use to keep tour groups engaged?
Expected Answer: Should describe various presentation techniques, storytelling methods, and interactive elements they use to maintain group interest throughout the tour.
Q: How do you manage time effectively during a tour?
Expected Answer: Should explain their approach to staying on schedule while being flexible enough to accommodate group needs and unexpected delays.
Entry-Level Guide Questions
Q: What would you do if someone in your group gets separated?
Expected Answer: Should know basic safety protocols, demonstrate awareness of company procedures, and show understanding of preventive measures.
Q: How do you prepare for a new tour route or destination?
Expected Answer: Should describe research methods, route planning, fact-checking processes, and preparation of talking points.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic route knowledge
- Clear communication
- Basic first aid
- Time management
Mid (1-3 years)
- Multiple route expertise
- Group management
- Multilingual abilities
- Problem-solving skills
Senior (3+ years)
- Extensive destination knowledge
- Emergency situation management
- Multiple tour type expertise
- Training/mentoring ability
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of local area history or attractions
- Poor public speaking skills
- Lack of proper guide licensing or certification
- No experience with group management
- Unable to handle basic emergency procedures
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