Four people in a bright office, two shaking hands, one smiling and holding a document, another working at a desk.
Four people in a bright office, two shaking hands, one smiling and holding a document, another working at a desk.

Concierge

What is a Concierge?

A simple Concierge definition is someone who serves as a specialized customer service representative, i.e. hotel concierge. Also commonly called a Guest Relations Manager or Guest Service Worker, concierges most frequently employed within the hospitality industry, although these positions may also be available in high-end office and apartment buildings complexes. These employees are responsible for responding to a wide variety of consumer/guest needs to ensure a smooth and pleasant experience for these patrons. Excellent communication skills and customer service skills are necessary to succeed in this role. In short, their primary duty is to be of service to consumers/guests and keep them happy.

Job Responsibilities

Job responsibilities for these workers vary widely from one employment setting to another. However, in general, they are expected to provide personal assistant services to consumers/guests served by their employers. Those services may include:

  • Greeting guests/customers
  • Manage guest/customer complaints
  • Taking messages
  • Managing mail, luggage and deliveries
  • Perform basic administrative/secretarial/reception duties
  • Running errands to assist guests
  • Arranging transportation and excursions upon visitor request
  • Provide information and recommendations on local features, attractions, shopping, restaurants, dining, entertainment, nightlife, and recreation
  • Arranging tours and activities
  • Making dinner/event reservations for guests
  • Obtaining tickets for events
  • Arranging special services
  • Providing or arranging for general business services for guests
  • Managing customer/guest requests for housekeeping and/or maintenance
  • Develop network of contacts, service providers and businesses within their communities to serve guests

How to Become a Concierge

If you are interested in beginning a career as a Concierge, earning a Hospitality Assistant diploma with Bryant & Stratton College is a solid first step towards that goal. Graduating from this diploma program will prepare you for entry level jobs in the hospitality industry, including Concierge and other customer service positions as part of restaurant, resort, hotel staff, or another hospitality setting.

Earning your degree is one step in pursuing a career in the concierge field. Additional requirements within education and/or experience can include the following:

  • High School Diploma or GED – is required prior to your post-secondary education, i.e. diploma or degree
  • Degree – a degree is not usually required, but can give a strong foundation and an advantage for more competitive, formal, or desired positions in the field
  • Develop Skills & Experience – build specialized proficiencies in the concierge or hospitality field through your education or real-world experience
  • Networking – cultivate professional connections through your education or in an internship setting to gain an edge in your career search
  • Additional Certifications – professional concierge certifications can highlight your experience and help you stand out to employers. Certifications in the concierge and hospitality fields can include: Les Clef d’Or, Certified Concierge Specialist (CCS) and American Hotel & Loding Education Institute (AHLEI) certifications

Once you have gotten your foot in the door with an entry level position, you can continue your education to help with advancing your career. Earning an Associate degree in Hospitality Management or an Associate degree in Restaurant and Hotel Management from Bryant & Stratton College can help you do that, and you can apply courses and earned credits from your diploma program towards earning those degrees.

Getting Started with Bryant & Stratton College

Gain the specialized background valued in the hospitality field with a Hospitality Assistant Diploma at Bryant & Stratton College. In as little as 12 months you can be on your way to a career in concierge service in a number of exciting settings, including restaurants, hotels, resorts, and more – request more information on the form on this page!

What Can I Do With an Associate Degree in Hospitality Management or Restaurant and Hotel Management?

Either of these degrees can help you qualify for those sought-after Concierge positions in high-end establishments, providing you with the opportunity to climb the career ladder.

The Restaurant and Hotel Management and Hospitality Management associate degree programs also prepare students for a wide range of other roles within the hospitality industry. These degree programs provide a solid foundation in hospitality management functions and other essential skills, opening the door to management, human resources, marketing, and other career opportunities. Hotels, casinos, travel and sports venues, are just a few of the settings available to you.

Related Job Titles

  • Event Staff – event staff can assist with many aspects of events – from planning and set up to management of the event to supporting event conclusion functions.
  • Reservation and Transportation Ticket Agent Travel Clerk – this role assists travelers with coordinating their travel plans, including air and hotel reservations, special events tickets, and much more.
  • Lodging Manager – manages the routine activities and operations of a establishments that provide accommodations. 
  • Food Services Manager – responsible for overight of the daily operations of establishments that serve food and/or beverages.
  • Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerk – handles all upfront guest needs, including greeting guests, checking them in, and addressing any additional needs or questions related to hotel services.

Additional Training/Requirements

Many employers prefer to hire candidates for entry level Concierge service positions who have some workplace experience — either as a Concierge or in a similar customer service oriented position. Some employers may require that candidates pass a criminal background check and/or drug testing as a condition of employment.

For more insights into careers and career paths in the hospitality field, please visit the Business Degrees section of the Bryant & Stratton College blog. By exploring our blog and the B&SC website, you are sure to find a lot of helpful tips and information to ease your path and provide valuable career insights as you work towards preparing for and building a successful career in the hospitality field.

While these projections can help career-minded people evaluate potential employment fields, it is important to note that job market data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook is only intended to provide insight on occupational opportunities. It should not be construed as a guarantee of salary or job title. Neither BLS nor Bryant & Stratton College can guarantee employment in any field.

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