At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional customer service and enhance passengers' journeys onboard our trains.
- Company: Join GWR, a leading railway network with a commitment to outstanding travel experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, free rail travel, healthcare, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with opportunities for growth and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Be part of transforming train travel into a friendly, fun, and efficient experience.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 26344 - 34464 € per year.
Who are we? GWR is the proud custodian of Brunel's railway – one of the most prestigious networks in the world. We have some of the newest trains in the country and exciting plans to extend our services. With more than one hundred million passenger journeys each year, we carry people to over 275 stations in the South West, from Cornwall and South Wales to London, passing through beautiful country and some of the UK's top tourist destinations. We are transforming the way people think about train travel, empowering our team of over 6,000 people from all different backgrounds to make it a great experience for our customers. Together, we will revalue rail as a very special way to travel – relaxing, fast, efficient, friendly and fun.
THIS ADVERT IS TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST ONLY – WE DO NOT CURRENTLY HAVE ANY LIVE ROLES.
Are you passionate about delivering exceptional customer service? We're looking for friendly and enthusiastic individuals to enhance our passengers' journey.
What's in It for You?
- Salary: £26,344 (first six months), rising to £34,464 after completing training and probation
- Hours: 35 per week, including weekends and bank holidays
- Annual Leave: 25 days per year
- Comprehensive Training – We set you up for success! 2 weeks of full-time classroom training in Swindon followed by up to 4 weeks of onboard training at your base location (your home station), with flexibility based on your learning pace.
- Excellent Benefits: Free rail travel, pension, healthcare plan, retail discounts & more!
As a Customer Host, You Will:
- Provide a warm welcome and outstanding at-seat refreshment service
- Enhance customers' journeys with exceptional service
- Work onboard the train, engaging with passengers and creating a positive experience
What We're Looking For:
- Customer service experience
- A passion for delivering exceptional experiences
- A proactive approach, customers always come first!
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team
- Preferred: Cash handling and food safety experience
Additional Information:
You must live within 45–60 minutes of the station and be able to get to work without relying on public transport (staff parking isn’t always guaranteed at our stations). The selection process includes an assessment centre with group activities showcasing your customer service skills. If successful, you'll be invited to a 1‑2‑1 interview with the hiring team—this could be on the same day or scheduled at a later date.
We all belong at GWR. This is our vision for providing an inclusive environment for all our colleagues, ensuring all candidates have an equal opportunity to access meaningful employment. We value our differences such as age, gender, LGBTQIA+, ethnicity, religion, and disability. We maintain a zero tolerance towards any form of prejudice towards our colleagues, customers, and future talent. We celebrate and encourage diversity of thought, progressive ways of working and seeing all our colleagues grow and thrive. We review all roles and job descriptions to ensure they are accessible and, where possible, we support and provide flexible working options; we recommend that you refer to each vacancy description for further details. If you require additional support to complete your application due to a disability or neurodivergent condition, for example, dyslexia, dyspraxia, or autism, please follow the links below. We encourage you to share any additional needs you may require so we can provide a fair and equal process for all who apply.
Customer Host in Penzance employer: FirstGroup
GWR is an exceptional employer that values diversity and inclusivity, offering a supportive work culture where every team member can thrive. As a Customer Host, you will enjoy comprehensive training, competitive salary progression, and excellent benefits including free rail travel and healthcare plans, all while working in a dynamic environment that transforms the passenger experience across one of the UK's most scenic railway networks.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Customer Host in Penzance
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know GWR and its values! Research the company culture and what they stand for. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Think of examples from your past experiences where you went above and beyond for a customer. Be ready to share these stories during the assessment centre and interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive and engage with others during the group activities at the assessment centre. Show your enthusiasm and willingness to collaborate, as teamwork is key in this role!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re serious about joining the GWR family and making a difference in customer experiences.
We think you need these skills to ace Customer Host in Penzance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Customer Service:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for delivering exceptional customer service shine through. Share specific examples of how you've gone above and beyond for customers in the past – we love to see that passion!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with what we're looking for in a Customer Host. This shows us that you really understand the role and are genuinely interested.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you'd be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for any future roles. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate – we promise!
How to prepare for a job interview at FirstGroup
✨Know Your Customer Service Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your customer service experience. Think of specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer. GWR is all about enhancing passenger journeys, so be ready to share how you've made a difference in previous roles.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
GWR is looking for friendly and enthusiastic individuals, so let your passion shine through! During the interview, express why you love delivering exceptional experiences and how you can bring that energy to the role of Customer Host.
✨Prepare for Group Activities
Since the selection process includes group activities, practice working collaboratively with others. Think about how you can showcase your communication skills and proactive approach while engaging with your peers during these exercises.
✨Understand GWR's Vision
Familiarise yourself with GWR's commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to creating a welcoming environment for all passengers. This shows that you align with their values and are ready to be part of their team.
