If you are looking for a career in tourism that offers freedom, flexibility and the opportunity to work from anywhere in the world, teleworking in tourism could be the ideal solution for you.

The COVID-19 pandemic has driven teleworking to unprecedented levels. What was once an option for some has become a necessity for many.

With the end of restrictions, many workers returned to offices, but the teleworking culture is here to stay. And tourism, a sector that traditionally depends on face-to-face contact, was not immune to this change.

Although teleworking in tourism may seem incompatible with the functions of the sector, the truth is that there are several opportunities to work remotely in this area.

The role of technology in the tourism and hospitality sector

Currently approximately one million Portuguese people work remotelyO, which represents around 19% of the professionals employed. 

Teleworking is only possible thanks to the evolution of technology, which allows professionals to connect to the office and clients from wherever they are and at any time of the day.

Technological innovations also have a positive impact on the services and experiences provided in the tourism sector. There are apps, platforms and other digital solutions with the aim of providing a personalized and focused support in travelers.

The creation and reconfiguration of services, which allow, for example, to promote tourist destinations and products in a segmented way, share content and facilitate tourists' search and reservations, open doors to new job opportunities.

Nowadays, direct service to the public continues to be important, but there are new functions carried out behind the scenes that make all the difference in the traveler experience.

The advantages of teleworking in tourism 

Teleworking in tourism is an increasingly present reality in the sector. Companies that adapt to this new reality will be better positioned to attract and retain talent, increase productivity and reduce costs.

For professionals, it means greater flexibility, autonomy and work-life balance. For companies, teleworking in tourism translates into access to a pool broader talent pool.

This is also an opportunity for those who want to stay connected to the tourism and hospitality sector, by supporting consumers to book promotional trips or change a flight schedule, but not give up their dream job.  

The future of work in tourism will be hybrid, combining in-person and remote work. Companies that embrace this evolution have a better chance of thriving in an increasingly competitive and globalized market.

What are the remote jobs in tourism?

There are already several freelancing and teleworking opportunities in tourism and the tendency is for them to grow in the coming years. 

We list 6 professions that can be carried out remotely and companies that offer teleworking in tourism.

1. Digital marketing

This area has been increasingly important in tourism to attract visitors, boost bookings, generate brand visibility and build customer loyalty. 

A digital marketing professional is responsible for creating and managing online campaigns, optimizing the website, analyzing data and monitoring trends, in order to generate traffic and convert leads.

2. Customer service

Customer service has evolved alongside new technologies. As a result, it is possible to provide effective and personalized digital support and advice, creating teleworking opportunities in tourism.

Some of these functions include answering questions about bookings, itineraries and services, resolving problems and providing additional information via email, telephone or online chat.

3. Social media management

Social media management is a sub-area of digital marketing that plays a decisive role in promoting products or services, increasing brand reach and creating a connection with the public.

To do this, a social media manager creates engaging content, interacts with followers, analyzes metrics and generates advertisements on the platforms. All this professional needs is a computer, internet access and specialized software.

4. Development of tourism products

Another activity that can be done remotely is the development of tourism products. This area is important to satisfy the increasingly demanding needs of tourists and differentiate companies in the market.

A professional in this area is dedicated to creating and developing new tourism products, such as travel packages, itineraries and activities to attract travelers. In addition, you must liaise with suppliers and decide the price and conditions of the offer.

5. Translation 

In the tourism sector, it is necessary to ensure communication with international customers, translate content into different languages and maintain harmony between different cultures. 

A translator is a key player in expanding the business to other markets and meeting the needs of international clients. Nowadays, it is common to hire these professionals as freelancers, without the need for face-to-face contact.

6. Travel consultancy

More and more tourists are looking for unique and memorable experiences. A travel consultant allows you to personalize trips and stays, helping you choose a destination, recommending accommodation, flights and itineraries, and offering ongoing support.

This is a profession with great potential for the future of teleworking in tourism. Not only does it require a considerable level of qualifications, it also promises to boost tourism supply.

Some examples of companies that offer teleworking in tourism:

• Airbnb
  
  
• Booking.com
  
  
• Expedia
  
  
• TripAdvisor
  
  
• Google Tourism

The latest opportunities in Tourism are on the Employment Exchange

The most challenging part of looking for work is accessing the right opportunities at the right time. And no matter how much in-depth research you do, sometimes contacts are missing.

A Bolsa de Empregabilidade bridges the gap between candidates and top companies in the Tourism and Hospitality sector, to facilitate the recruitment process. 

Every week we share new job and internship opportunities for professionals with no experience, the unemployed and candidates looking to change fields.

Take a look at the vacancies we have for you and find your next opportunity! Invest in a career that is constantly evolving and highly employable.