Guidelines for Appointing a Tourism Consultant

Issued by the Tourism Consultants Association (TCA)

Appointing the right consultant is vital to achieving your goals in the tourism, hospitality, travel, and conservation sectors. TCA provides the following guidelines to help organizations and individuals engage professional consultants effectively and responsibly.

1. Define the Scope of Work

Before approaching a consultant, clearly define:

• The nature and objectives of the project

• Expected deliverables

• Desired timeline

• Budget parameters (if known)

• Key performance indicators (KPIs) for project success

Having a well-defined brief enables both parties to understand expectations and ensures alignment from the outset.

2. Search and Shortlist

TCA recommends that you:

• Use our Professional Directory to identify experienced, vetted consultants

• Consider qualifications, sector expertise, references, and past projects

• Shortlist at least 2–3 consultants to invite for proposal submission

Note: All listed professionals on the TCA website are bound by a code of conduct and ethical practice.

3. Request Proposals

Ask shortlisted consultants to submit written proposals that include:

• Understanding of your brief

• Methodology and approach

• Work plan and timelines

• Team composition (if applicable)

• Fees and payment structure

• Relevant experience and case studies

4. Assess and Interview

Evaluate proposals based on:

• Relevance and quality of approach

• Track record and sector-specific experience

• Proposed fees (value, not just cost)

• Cultural or regional insight, where applicable

Consider conducting interviews to further assess compatibility and clarify expectations.

5. Agree on Terms and Contract

Before work begins:

• Sign a formal contract or agreement

• Outline deliverables, milestones, payment terms, confidentiality, and ownership of work

• Include dispute resolution terms and timelines

A clear agreement protects both the client and consultant.

6. Monitor Progress and Communicate

• Set review checkpoints to ensure milestones are met

• Maintain open and regular communication

• Provide feedback to encourage alignment and adaptability

7. Evaluate and Close

Upon project completion:

• Assess the project against original KPIs

• Offer constructive feedback

• Finalize all outstanding payments

• Consider submitting a review or testimonial to TCA

Why Work with TCA-Listed Consultants?

All professionals listed on TourismConsultantsAssociation.org have:

• Demonstrated expertise in tourism and related sectors

• Agreed to adhere to professional ethics and continuous development

• Been vetted for qualifications and client experience

For more information or to browse consultants, visit our Directory of Professionals.