Focus on skill development amid crisis
In times like these, it is important to focus on training and skill development for the employees, says Pranav Kapadia, Founder, Global Destinations. He adds that this is also the time for the employer to introspect and think of the way forward, while further strengthening soft skills. Why has skill development come into focus right now?
During normal times, we mostly focus on our day-today business. It’s only during times like these that we realise the importance of skill development. As for any industry, our industry especially with its service-oriented nature, skill development is one of the most important, primary and vital aspects. With the knowledge, expertise and innovation that a skilled professional brings to the table, they are not only an asset to the organisation but to the industry as well.
How do you encourage your team to take this up?
We consider skilling a crucial part for our work culture. Different individuals have their own strong points and we try and identify their strengths at an early stage. Based on this, we organise in-house brainstorming sessions as well as external trainings conducted by professionals. Further, we also ensure that each sales person gets a first-hand experience of the destinations with regular familiarisation trips. We do not see this as a cost, but as an investment for the team member, as they will not only selfdevelop but also differentiate our organisation in the market.
What about educating the trade?
Our industry is facing an unprecedented situation right now. But, looking at the positive side, it also gives us an opportunity to further strengthen our knowledge, develop soft skills, introspect and reboot. Educating will only further empower and give you the much-required advantage which is so crucial in these current times. We are continuously encouraging all our travel industry friends to complete specialisation courses like our Matai Fiji Specialist. These are certified courses and one can proudly display these certificates to their clients, which will not only enhance client confidence but also result in improved business. We have already conducted webinars for Tourism Fiji, Palladium Hotel Group and Air New Zealand, and continually participate in product presentations for the travel trade. We are also sharing timely updates with our B2B partners via regular emailers on the continuously evolving situation.
Do you have a revival plan for your clients?
We are regularly reminding the travel fraternity that this is the time to reinvent ourselves and work on our weak points. This is a passing storm which will wither away and a new day will certainly present new opportunities. We are currently working very closely with all our partners to put in place various offers, deals, etc., and will launch those as soon as the situation improves. We are also working on plans to handle the surge effectively, which will come along once the scenario changes.
Would you have any wishlist for the government?
The travel industry needs the government’s help and intervention at this time more than any other. It’s obvious that the world over, governments have or are in the process of announcing various relief measures. We would certainly request the government of relief measures like tax concessions such as GST relief and withdrawal of TCS besides financial bailout packages, which can help organisations such as ours to meet various financial commitments.
We are working closely with all our partners to put in place various offers, deals, etc., and will launch those soon