TOUR GUIDING TECHNIQUES

Content and Methodology

GUIDING TECHNIQUES
Be prepared, study the destination Plan your spiel or commentary, it should be

structured Have an update on the local and global news and environmental issues Intercede when necessary in the interaction with the guest and the locals Be aware on the basic human behavior and attitudes

Do not research to back up your facts

Be ready for pertinent and impertinent questions In cases of having more than one guide, find some

time to sit down, discuss to synchronize information & learn from each other Never tell your personal life at first meeting

 Never sell anything at first meeting unless they ask Be punctual at all times. Be there at least one hour before the tour

starts
Learn map reading

Learn how to say NO to indecent proposals

 Always make a head count before, during and after the tour, especially

on stops
Be practical when making judgment, think if the benefit of the majority Be a good decision maker

Learn basic first aid

QUALITIES OF AN EFFECTIVE TOUR GUIDE

Love of country
People-loving Open-mindedness Tactfulness Punctuality Proper decorum

Honesty
resourcefulness

 Self- confidence Sense of humor Enthusiasm Fairness in treatment Good health Good communicator Patience Reasonable

Assertiveness Humble and polite

STEPS ON HOW TO MAKE A COMMENTARY

Begin with a smile, greeting and introduction
Brief the guests about the tour for the day Review the inclusions and exclusions of the

tour Give the distance and traveling time of the destination

What to expect from the tour

Give necessary precautions Do not miss to point important landmarks

along the way Announce comfort stops Always do the head count

TIPS FOR AN EFFECTIVE TOUR COMMENTARY

Start with a greeting or introduction Information should be delivered in a manner

that would interest the guests Sense of humor should be part of the delivery of information Remember, commentaries help people understand and appreciate what they actually see

Face the group, not a few

Speak slowly and clearly Voice should be audible

Practice eye contact

Prepare yourself for questions to be asked

Take control of your breathing and

emphasize important words

Use synonyms, example in explaining something

When mentioning a name, repeat it or spell it Maintain silence, if the need arises

Listen carefully to questions and other concerns

Never argue with the guests End your tour always by thanking the guests

THE END