Compass Group India Travel Consultant Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation

What the job involves

A Travel Consultant in the travel, hospitality and food service sector plans and books travel for corporate clients, groups, or leisure travellers, often handling flights, hotels, ground transport, and itinerary support. In a company like Compass Group India, you may also coordinate travel for employees, manage vendor bookings, and ensure cost-effective, policy-compliant arrangements. The role blends customer service, booking systems, and quick problem-solving under time pressure.

Role and technical knowledge

1. 1

   What is the difference between a direct flight and a connecting flight, and when would you recommend each to a client?

   Explain that direct is faster and simpler, while connecting is often cheaper. Mention client priorities like time, budget, and baggage.

2. 2

   What information do you need from a traveller before making a flight booking?

   Cover full name as per ID, date of birth, contact details, passport or ID, travel dates, origin and destination, and any meal or seat preference.

3. 3

   Explain what a PNR is and why it is important.

   Say PNR is a unique booking reference that holds the itinerary and passenger details. It is used for ticket changes, cancellations, and check-in.

4. 4

   What are the common types of hotel room bookings and how do they differ?

   Mention single, double, twin, and suite. Also explain refundable vs non-refundable and breakfast-included vs room-only rates.

Practical scenarios

1. 5

   A client's flight is cancelled two hours before departure. What steps do you take?

   Show a calm sequence: inform the client, check airline options, rebook or refund, arrange stay or transport if needed, and confirm in writing.

2. 6

   A corporate client wants to reduce travel costs for a team of ten people. How would you help?

   Suggest flexible dates, connecting flights, advance booking, negotiated hotel rates, and shared ground transport. Mention policy compliance.

3. 7

   A traveller loses their passport in a foreign city. How would you assist?

   Advise contacting the local police and Indian embassy or consulate, getting a police report, and applying for an emergency certificate or duplicate passport.

4. 8

   You booked a hotel but the client finds the room dirty and wants to check out immediately. What do you do?

   Apologise, contact the hotel manager, request a room change or refund, arrange alternate accommodation, and document the issue for follow-up.

Behavioural and customer service

1. 9

   Tell me about a time you had to handle an angry or upset customer. What did you do?

   Use the STAR method. Show that you listened, stayed calm, found a solution, and followed up to ensure satisfaction.

2. 10

   How do you prioritise when you have multiple bookings to confirm and a client is waiting on a call?

   Explain that you assess urgency and impact, communicate wait times, and use checklists or software to avoid errors.

3. 11

   Describe a situation where you worked in a team to meet a deadline.

   Highlight clear communication, dividing tasks, helping teammates, and reviewing the final output before submission.

4. 12

   Why do you want to work as a Travel Consultant in the hospitality and food service sector?

   Connect your interest in travel and service to the sector. Mention enjoying customer interaction, problem-solving, and learning about destinations.

HR and career fit

1. 13

   Are you comfortable working in shifts, including nights and weekends?

   Answer honestly. If yes, say you understand travel is a 24/7 industry and you are ready to adapt. If no, explain your flexibility limits.

2. 14

   What do you know about our company and this role?

   Research the company's services in travel and hospitality. Mention that the role involves booking, client support, and vendor coordination.

3. 15

   Where do you see yourself in two to three years in this role?

   Show growth within travel operations, such as senior consultant, team lead, or specialist in corporate travel or fares.

4. 16

   What are your salary expectations for this fresher role?

   Give a reasonable range based on market research for entry-level travel consultants in India. Say you are open to learning and the overall package.