At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome visitors, handle inquiries, and promote our language courses.
- Company: Join the Institut français, a cultural hub promoting French language and culture since 1910.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, health insurance, and 24 days of paid holiday.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant community and help others learn French while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Fluent in English and French with customer service experience; CRM knowledge is a plus.
- Other info: Part-time role with flexible hours; perfect for students looking to gain work experience.
Part of a worldwide network, the Institut français du Royaume-Uni promotes French language and culture and encourages cross-cultural collaborations. Founded in 1910, and based in South Kensington in London, it comprises a Language Centre, a Cultural Centre, Ciné Lumière, a cinema with two screens, and a multi-media library, La Médiathèque. The Language Centre of the Institut français, located in West London, attracts over 5000 students with its 106 outstanding professors.
Reporting to the Director, the Receptionist will be the first point of contact for visitors and callers for all queries regarding our wide range of online and face-to-face courses, aimed at individuals as well as public administrations and companies. As a receptionist at the Language Centre, you represent the Institute, welcome all visitors and clients in person, and respond to all incoming inquiries.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide information to visitors in person, by telephone, by email.
- Promote and sell courses and products providing guidance on our extensive offerings.
- Register students using our school management CRM software.
- Handle payments (by card – over the phone or onsite).
- Manage all administrative tasks (printing, display, archiving, etc.).
- Provide information and assist teachers.
- Opening and closing of the Language Centre (building check, classroom closure and alarm set up).
- Enforce compliance with our rules.
Technical skills
- Excellent command of English and French.
- Experience in sales and customer service.
- Good command of computer and office tools (CRM, Excel, Switchboard, Booking).
- Knowledge of the language training sector and the European framework is a plus.
Professional and interpersonal qualities
- Punctuality, autonomy, efficiency, and rigor.
- Motivation, teamwork and organizational skills.
- Genuine sense of service and a desire to maintain a positive attitude focused on customer satisfaction.
- Ability to handle inquiries and address complaints.
Type of contract: Fixed-term – Part-time (30 hours)
Schedule: 4 days a week (Opening days: Monday to Saturday, morning or evening – between 8:30 AM and 9:30 PM – until 4:30 PM on Fridays and 5:00 PM on Saturdays).
Place of work: French Institute – Language Centre, 13 Cromwell Place, SW7 2JR London
Start date: July 1, 2025
Monthly gross salary: £1988.47 + transport, pension and health insurance package
Holidays: 24 days paid holidays and 9 public holidays
Important: Only applicants with existing right to work in the UK will be considered. Applications must be submitted no later than 17 June 2025.
Studying with Us: Over 7,000 students choose to learn French with us every year. Join them!
Contact Detail:
Institut Français Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Language Centre Customer Relation Office – Part time
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the courses and services offered by the Language Centre. This knowledge will help you engage confidently with visitors and answer their queries effectively, showcasing your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your customer service skills, particularly in handling inquiries and complaints. Demonstrating a genuine sense of service during your interactions can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your language skills, especially in French, as this is crucial for the role. Being able to communicate fluently will not only help you connect with students but also show your commitment to the Institute's mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of the Institut français du Royaume-Uni. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Language Centre Customer Relation Office – Part time
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and required skills. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of a receptionist at the Language Centre.
Highlight Language Skills: Since the position requires an excellent command of both English and French, make sure to emphasise your language proficiency in your CV and cover letter. Provide specific examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles.
Showcase Customer Service Experience: Detail your experience in sales and customer service. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your ability to handle inquiries, address complaints, and maintain a positive attitude focused on customer satisfaction.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Mention your motivation to work in a cultural environment and how you can contribute to the Language Centre's mission.
How to prepare for a job interview at Institut Français
✨Showcase Your Language Skills
Since the role requires an excellent command of both English and French, be prepared to demonstrate your language proficiency during the interview. You might be asked to converse in both languages, so practice common phrases and responses beforehand.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Institute
Research the Institut français du Royaume-Uni and its offerings. Understanding their courses, cultural events, and overall mission will help you answer questions more effectively and show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Highlight Customer Service Experience
As a receptionist, you'll be the first point of contact for visitors. Be ready to discuss your previous customer service roles, focusing on how you've handled inquiries and resolved complaints. Use specific examples to illustrate your skills.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
The job involves various administrative tasks, so be prepared to talk about your organisational abilities. Share examples of how you've managed multiple responsibilities efficiently, especially in a busy environment.