Factors Affecting the Working Conditions of Tourism Graduates: Basis for Enhancing Professional Skillset and Industry Expectations

This research studied the factors affecting the working conditions of tourism graduates to enhance the professional skillset and career expectations of the graduates. The study analyzed data from 100 tourism graduates from four higher education institutions in the Philippines. The demographic profile revealed a predominantly young workforce between 20-29 years old, and a nearly even distribution between graduates working directly in the industry with 48% and graduates working indirectly with 52%. Using weighted means and statistical analysis, the study evaluated the influence of primary factors acquired from school/university (abilities/skills and self- efficacy) on graduates' career decisions and assessed their attained performance (outcome expectations and performance goals) in the industry.

Findings revealed that graduates perceived their educational preparation positively in terms of acquired abilities for direct and indirect job, the same thing with their self-efficacy. However, a notable gap emerged in outcome expectations, particularly regarding compensation, work-life balance, and career advancement. Although, statistical analysis found no significant differences between direct and indirect job holders across all dimensions examined, indicating that tourism education provides a versatile foundation serving graduates well regardless of their specific career path.Based on these findings, the study suggests enhancement on the skillset of the graduates in preparation for industry by focusing on providing realistic industry perspectives, strengthening preparation for both direct and indirect tourism roles, integrating psychological resilience training, and establishing continuous feedback mechanisms between industry and academic institutions. These targeted modifications aim to better prepare tourism graduates for the diverse realities of the industry, ultimately improving graduate outcomes and strengthening the tourism workforce.