Guest comment with ISES Australasia chair Jennifer Trethewey

Why is there a perception out there that events, tourism and hospitality are not seen as a serious career pathway for people in Australia, and where did this ridiculous concept originate?

It’s not that universities and TAFEs don’t offer any higher education courses or programs for these industries, because they do. What perplexes me is the industry that I am passionate about is not truly recognised as a serious career choice for students when selecting their vocation or profession.

For some reason our industry is seen as a ‘stop gap’ while students work as a waiter or waitress while studying for another profession.  But why is it that society sees these industries as a fill in and not a serious, long-term and valuable career pathway?

The tourism and events industry in Australia is exciting, fast moving, educational, diverse and offers serious long-term career opportunities. As a minimum, a person who wishes to work in this industry must have a number of qualities, including a strong work ethic, high attention to detail, computer literacy and outstanding communication skills. They also need to be multi-skilled, committed to working long hours, highly motivated, and that’s just the half of it.

A career in tourism, events and hospitality sets you up for life, and I challenge anyone who thinks otherwise. This industry is about people – and knowing what, why and how to work with them is the pinnacle to success for anybody at any level. Employees in this industry need to understand people, communicate with them, pitch to them and motivate them. And that’s just the staff element without delivering to clients, guests and customers in the industry. There are few other industries that must do this to survive and get repeat business. Other professions might be experts at their craft, but the majority do not understand how and why to communicate and work with people.

The profile, importance and economic function of this industry is highly under-rated by many in Australia. I challenge schools, parents, readers, industry members, industry bodies and industry leaders to promote and market the enormous opportunities that the tourism, events and hospitality industry has on offer. This is a serious industry that contributes serious money to a seriously amazing and beautiful country.