Other desirable qualifications include good typing and letter writing skills, and an ability to work with computers. Computer skills are required by employers to operate airline and centralized reservation systems. The ICTA also offers sales skills development programs and destination specialist programs, which provide a detailed knowledge of the geographic areas of North America, Western Europe, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Rim. Travel experience is an asset since personal knowledge about a city or foreign country often helps to influence clients' travel plans, as is experience as an airline reservation agent. Selling skills, patience, and the ability to gain the confidence of clients also are useful qualities.
Some employees start as reservation clerks or receptionists in travel agencies.
With experience and some formal training, they can take on greater responsibilities and eventually assume travel agent duties. In agencies with many offices, travel agents may advance to office manager or to other managerial positions. Those who start their own agencies generally have experience in an established agency. They must generally gain formal supplier or corporation approval before they can receive commissions. Suppliers or corporations are organizations of airlines, ship lines, or rail lines.