Mandy Exley: Soft skills mean hard currency for our tourism industry

THIS will be a big year for the tourism industry in Scotland, not least as we work hard to tempt visitors arriving for the 2012 Olympics across the Border.

A busy year in tourism is not unusual for Scotland. The sector contributes around £4 billion to the economy each year and boasts a number of world renowned events and attractions.

Like many industries, at its heart are the skilled people who ensure millions of tourists choose Scotland as a holiday destination each year. The days of the sector being perceived as low-skilled are over – a whole range of soft and managerial proficiencies are now required and up-skilling is a key challenge. Skills are crucial if Scotland is to continue to strive for tourism excellence. It’s a tough climate and we are a small country vying with many in the tourism pool. We must possess the skills to compete.

Five years ago the Scottish Government created The Scottish Tourism Leadership Forum, which plays a part in up-skilling within the industry and is a step in the right direction. But there is still a need for greater co-ordination when it comes to tourism education and training.

A search for tourism courses currently produces a plethora of results and approaches. The principles of outstanding service, which encourage new and repeat custom, are eminently transferable.

The sheer number of tourism courses is confusing for those entering the industry or simply looking to improve their job prospects. We must concentrate on providing recognised and accredited skills based learning which will help people in the industry get a job, keep a job and then get a better job. We need the partnership between the industry, the college sector and the Scottish Government to work harder – something we strive for in the tourism courses offered by Jewel & Esk College.

The timing for smarter working could not be more vital as we look ahead to 2014 and events like the Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup. The future of Scotland’s tourism industry relies on the skills of the next generation.

• Mandy Exley is principal of Jewel & Esk College and a director of the Scottish Tourism Forum.