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A concierge assists customers to make the most of their stay at a location by assisting them to book shows, make dining reservations, or even arranging transportation. They may also offer advice on things to do in the area, places to eat, and the best way to get around. They are mostly found at nice hotels or resorts as their service is especially helpful for people traveling from out of town. Watch a video to learn what a concierge does:
How to Become a Concierge
According to O*NET OnLine, most concierges have at least a high school diploma. Some have even continued their education and taken some college courses or have earned an associate’s degree. A college degree may not be required to gain a position as a concierge, but experience in the travel or hospitality industry would be preferred.
You would also want to have a thorough understanding of the local area and first-hand knowledge of what it has to offer so you can give informed advice to clients. Depending on the location, having the ability to speak more than one language can also give you an edge over other applicants. Once you are employed, you would be trained on-the-job.
Job Description of a Concierge
On a daily basis, a concierge makes reservations for guests and secures tickets to events. In addition, they provide information to tourists about must see locations, tours, restaurants, nightlife, and popular shows. They may also get unusual requests that may take some research. A concierge can also be helpful because of their connections with other businesses in the area. Sometimes, a concierge can secure a hard to get a reservation at a restaurant or show.
A concierge would have exceptional customer service skills and must be an active listener. This would help them determine the best recommendations for individual customer needs. Along with communicating with customers in person, they would also be expected to assist guests over the phone.
Concierge Career Video Transcript
In a hotel, apartment, or office building, a person with the title of concierge helps ease the way for visitors and residents in many ways. The concierge takes messages, arranges transportation, and processes requests for housekeeping and maintenance for guests. In some locations, the concierge is the person to see for tickets to a sporting event or theater show. Most are well-informed about local attractions and sightseeing options. It’s a crucial position for the management of the facility because the concierge can make people feel good or bad about the establishment.
Courtesy and a can-do attitude are important aspects of the job, along with the ability to speak clearly. You can’t be shy around strangers and you have to be willing to handle even unusual requests gracefully, and confidentially. Because this is a public position handling people’s private needs, employers conduct thorough background checks. While qualifications may range from a high school diploma to an associate’s degree, work experience in the hospitality industry is a plus. In many areas, concierges may be recruited from a workers union of a current hotel or building workers.
Article Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Concierges.
National Center for O*NET Development. 39-6012.00. O*NET OnLine.