The Tyrolean tourism industry offers various support for people starting out in a new career to ease their entry into the sector and help them establish themselves successfully in their new field. Here are some of the key support measures:
1. Targeted training programmes
- Introductory courses and training: Many tourism businesses in Tirol provide specialised courses and training tailored for career changers. These programs teach the essential knowledge and skills needed in the tourism sector, such as guest service, service standards and basic hotel management.
- Part-time qualifications: There are also opportunities to acquire additional qualifications while working, through evening courses or online seminars specifically designed for those wishing to switch to a new career.
2. Mentoring and coaching
- Experienced mentors: Many companies assign experienced mentors to guide new members of staff during their first months in a new job and help them navigate the working environment.
- Individual coaching: Through personalised coaching, workers starting out in a new career receive individual and targetted support for developing their skills and overcoming initial challenges.
3. Internships and trainee programmes
- Gaining practical experience: Internships and trainee programmes are common ways for career changers to gain practical experience in the tourism sector. These programs often provide a comprehensive overview of various areas in tourism and facilitate the transition to permanent employment.
- Paid trainee positions: Some companies offer paid trainee programmes, allowing career changers to continue their education in a protected environment while earning an income.
4. Flexible entry options
- Part-time and seasonal work: Career changers can often start in part-time or seasonal positions, which allows them to gradually get used to the new industry. This is particularly beneficial for those wanting to test the waters or who are balancing another job.
- Entry-level positions: There are numerous entry-level positions in Tyrolean tourism that do not require specific prior experience, such as in service, housekeeping or guest relations. These roles provide a solid foundation for future development.
5. Recognition of prior experience
- Transfer of soft skills: Many companies recognise that career changers bring valuable skills from other sectors, such as customer orientation, organisational talent and communication skills. These soft skills are appreciated and can be effectively utilised in the tourism industry.
- Recognition of qualifications: Depending on prior experience and qualifications, certain degrees or periods of work experience may be recognised, allowing for entry into higher positions.
6. Integration into the workplace
- Onboarding programmes: Many tourism businesses emphasise structured onboarding to help career changers quickly and effectively adapt to their new jobs. This often includes training sessions, tours and the opportunity to become familiarised with the team culture.
- Social integration: Given that the work culture in Tirol is strongly characterised by a sense of community, career changers are often integrated quickly through team events, communal activities and open exchanges within the team.
7. Industry-specific networks and associations
- Networking events: Numerous events, fairs and networking meetings in the Tyrolean tourism industry provide career changers with opportunities to make connections, exchange ideas and benefit from the experiences of others.
- Membership in associations: Some industry associations offer special programmes or discounted memberships for career changers, facilitating access to further resources and training opportunities.
8. Financial support and incentives
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- Funding programmes: There are regional and national funding programmes that can financially support career changers, such as grants for training or participation in qualification programmes.
- Internal company support: Some businesses provide financial assistance for further education or cover the costs of specific training to ease the transition.
9. Flexibility and openness
Open corporate culture: The Tyrolean tourism industry is known for its openness to individuals from diverse professional backgrounds. Many employers value the diversity that career changers bring and actively promote an inclusive work culture.
Opportunities in various areas: Career changers often have the chance to work in different departments, helping them discover which area suits them best.
Through these diverse support measures, career changers can successfully transition into Tyrolean tourism and begin a fulfilling career in a dynamic and growing industry.