At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage visitors and enhance their experience at Belsay Hall & Castle.
- Company: Join a charity dedicated to preserving England's rich heritage and historic sites.
- Benefits: Enjoy free access to all English Heritage sites and discounts in shops and cafes.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team, making history accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
- Qualifications: No specific background needed; just a passion for people and great customer service.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for career progression and a supportive work environment.
Would you like to work for the charity that cares for hundreds of historic sites in every corner of England? We are looking for a Visitor Assistant to join us at Belsay Hall working 8 hours per week April to October, switching to 0 hours November to March.
No history background? No problem. What is important to us is a passion for people and excellent customer service. You will enjoy working with others as part of a team and understand what makes excellent customer service to deliver an engaging visitor experience to a diverse audience.
Heritage is for everybody, and we are here for heritage. Heritage lives in places and people, memories and stories, artefacts and traditions. It can connect us all to the past, and to each other. It can make us happier, strengthen every community, and help shape society for the better. Everybody should be able to enjoy the benefits it brings.
By joining us as a Belsay Hall Visitor Assistant, you will be part of an amazing team of employees and volunteers, ensuring visitors have a great time from the moment they arrive until they say goodbye. Through your recommendations, you will help personalise their visit - this could include talking about the benefits of English Heritage membership or recommending things to see and do on site. You will also contribute to making sure your site is accessible, safe and well presented at all times.
It is a varied role - some days will be busy from start to finish and others quieter, especially on the wetter days! Some paid or voluntary experience with the public is beneficial but full training and support is provided as part of your induction. You will be required to work weekends and Bank Holidays, more information will be provided at interview.
Benefits include:
- The opportunity for career progression within the heritage sector in retail, food and beverage or general management
- Opportunities to go to some of our great live music and history events
- Free access to all English Heritage sites for you, and up to 6 friends and/or family members
- 25% discount in our shops and cafes
- Enhanced maternity/paternity/shared parental leave
- 25 days' holiday plus Bank Holidays pro rata rising to 28 days after 3 years
- Options to buy additional leave
- Matched pension contributions up to a maximum of 10%
Everybody's welcome at English Heritage. Forget the stereotypes. It takes thousands of people from every background to care for England's heritage and open it up for everybody to enjoy. Weβre looking for every type of person with every kind of skill and experience, and weβre committed to making sure that English Heritage is an equitable, diverse and inclusive place to work.
We take wellbeing seriously. We are committed to ensuring everyone feels safe at work and can carry out their role. To support this, we have a network of Mental Health First aiders, regular information and awareness events, unlimited access to an Employee Assistance Programme and work with our people to implement reasonable adjustments.
If you would like to talk to us before you apply e.g. about workplace adjustments or working patterns, please contact Ben Laurie, Belsay Hall Supervisor, on Ben.Laurie@english-heritage.org.uk. No agencies please.
Interviews will take place on Monday 23rd of June at Belsay Hall.
Visitor Assistant employer: English Heritage
Contact Detail:
English Heritage Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Visitor Assistant
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Belsay Hall and its history. Understanding the unique features of the site will help you engage with visitors and provide them with a memorable experience.
β¨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for customer service during any interactions. Highlighting your enthusiasm for helping others can set you apart, as this role is all about creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
β¨Tip Number 3
Network with current employees or volunteers at English Heritage. They can provide insights into the role and the organisation's culture, which can be beneficial during your interview.
β¨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your availability, especially regarding weekends and Bank Holidays. Flexibility in your schedule can demonstrate your commitment to the role and willingness to meet the needs of the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Visitor Assistant
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand what the Visitor Assistant role entails. Focus on the importance of customer service and teamwork, as these are key aspects of the position.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight any relevant experience you have in customer service or working with the public. Even if your background isn't in history, emphasise your passion for people and any transferable skills that would make you a great fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the position and the organisation. Mention why you want to work at Belsay Hall specifically and how you can contribute to enhancing the visitor experience.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your CV and cover letter. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise.
How to prepare for a job interview at English Heritage
β¨Show Your Passion for People
As a Visitor Assistant, your love for engaging with people is crucial. Be prepared to share examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in the past, even if it's from a different context.
β¨Familiarise Yourself with Belsay Hall
Do some research on Belsay Hall, its history, and its attractions. Being knowledgeable about the site will help you answer questions confidently and show your enthusiasm for the role.
β¨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This role involves working closely with others. Highlight your ability to work as part of a team by sharing experiences where collaboration led to a successful outcome.
β¨Prepare for Varied Scenarios
The job can be busy or quiet depending on the day. Think of examples where you've adapted to changing circumstances and maintained a positive attitude, as this will be key in your role.