High School

There really is no specific high school class to take in order to be a successful resort worker (especially since there are dozens of career paths in the resort industry). Rather, a pleasant and outgoing personality and good people skills are what will help you land a job. On the other hand, business, computer science, English, speech, and even foreign language classes will provide basic skills that will come in handy in any career.  

Postsecondary Training

If you are interested in something other than an entry-level job, or wish to make this industry a lifelong career, then a college education will be very helpful. Many companies look for college graduates with degrees in hospitality, communications, or business management.

Certification or Licensing

Most entry-level resort jobs do not require certification or a license. This, however, is not the case with specialty workers. Ski instructors, scuba instructors, child-care workers, and lifeguards, just to name a few, must be certified.

No experience is needed to work in entry-level positions, but those with prior work experience will increase their chances of landing a job, getting promoted, and possibly earning higher pay. High-level positions such as nurse or executive require previous work experience.

Resorts are service-oriented so employees are required to be courteous, helpful, and friendly at all times. They are expected to dress and behave properly at all times, even when they are not on call. Some resorts such as Disney World, for example, consider their employees as "the cast," and expect them to be on their best behavior when on stage (working hours).

Employees are expected to mix well with the resort patrons as well as with their coworkers. Only team players are needed in this industry. 

Some resorts insist that applicants be trained in CPR and first aid. Check with the human resources department of your potential employer to learn about their requirements.