Menu
Log in

Why join the TGAT?

Joining the TGAT can be a smart move for your career as a tour guide, or as a stepping stone to further work in the tourism industry. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should join our association...

Acquire customer referrals

Whenever a member tour guide is unable to accept a tour, or if the guest is looking for a type of tour they don't offer, they typically recommend their fellow TGAT member guides. Sharing is caring and that goes double for referrals from fellow guides!

Access to members-only discounts and services

As a certified member of the TGAT, you have access to steep discounts or complimentary admission to many Toronto and Ontario attractions. The cost of certification is paid for multiple times over if you take advantage of this. In addition, we offer free professional development workshops for all members!

Gain a voice in government

Collectively we are the voice of the tour guide profession in Toronto and currently the only such group in Ontario. Our association is committed to elevating the profile of the tour guide profession are committed to being your voice in government at the city and provincial level.

Receive TGAT newsletters

Newsletters provide new member information, interesting information about the tour guiding business, articles about local points of interest for guides, a community calendar, and details about upcoming meetings and events, among other things. Newsletters are published monthly or bi-monthly.

Make business contacts

Our association is affiliated with many local tour operators and is a member of other tourism organizations like Destination Toronto, the Toronto Attractions Council, and the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations. Our membership is well-connected, as many have been working in the tourism industry for decades. Take advantage of us!

Professional development & events

Each month, the TGAT organizes events for members, such as expert-led talks, field trips to local attractions, workshops, socials, and meet-ups. We are committed to helping develop not only our members' skills but also to build and strengthen our tour guide community.

Membership brings credibility to your tour guide business

There are many people offering tours and activities who aren't experienced tour guides, let alone certified and vetted by a professional association. Stand out from the crowd by listing your membership with TGAT and show prospective clients that you adhere to the highest standards.

Promote yourself

With a TGAT membership, you have a platform through our Facebook group and our public Facebook page to tell other members and the world what you are up to. If you are offering a special tour or running an event, we want to know!

Gain executive experience

TGAT Executive Board members are selected every 2 years by a general election. This provides opportunities even for new members to seek election and add their voice to the mix. Positions on the board are decided upon between elected board members after the election. 

Increase your visibility as a "guide for hire"

As a member of the TGAT, you will be listed in our tour guide directory, which is used by tour operators and trip planners to find local guides. With certification, you will have an enhanced listing with a photo, the types of tours you offer, a mini bio, and links to book directly with you.

Membership with the TGAT is not only for professional guides who lead walking and driving tours but for anyone who is in a customer-facing role that involves interpretation of history or culture. Whether you are an art gallery docent, a museum volunteer who conducts tours, or a sightseeing bus or boat guide, you'll find value in connecting with others in your field and learning from other members of the association. Through the association you'll have opportunities to:

  • Improve your public speaking skills
  • Learn about other opportunities to apply your skills and knowledge
  • Diversify your experience
  • Connect with other like-minded, fun, outgoing people dedicated to serving guests
Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software