Journal of Tourism and Development

Journal of Tourism and Development

Designing a Model of Creativity for Tourist Guides in Iran Based on Qualitative Methods

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Associate Professor, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Technology Development Research Institute(ACECR), Tehran, Iran
3 PhD student, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/jtd.2024.427102.2859
Abstract
One of the most important components in the tourism supply sector is tourist guides, serving as intermediaries between the destination and the tourists. Therefore, upgrading and empowering these individuals is of special importance to create a strong connection bridge between the destination and tourists, enabling them to create memorable experiences. Nurturing creativity in tourist guides is one of the crucial factors in crafting successful experiences.

This research aims to present a creativity model for Iranian tourist guides using a qualitative method. After reviewing the literature, the researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with knowledgeable participants, specifically chosen tourist guides. The components and indicators of creativity in tourist guides were extracted using open coding in MAXQDA software.

The findings included motivation components (flexibility, responsibility, organization, and non-resistance to new ideas), emotional intelligence (effective communication skills, understanding the traveler's mental type, and intrapersonal intelligence), crisis management ability (prediction and prevention skills), personality traits (friendly communication skills with respect for boundaries, high hospitality, and dynamism), cultural intelligence (partiality skills, motivation intelligence, and behavioral intelligence), cognitive skills (learnability, using game techniques, time management skills, etc.), and creative thinking (technology utilization ability and problem-solving skills)
Keywords

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