At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional customer service and create memorable experiences for our guests.
- Company: Join YHA, a social enterprise dedicated to enriching lives through hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy 10 free hostel nights per year, discounts, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a supportive environment for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team and make a real impact on guests' experiences.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and teamwork skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 12.71 - 12.71 £ per hour.
YHA London St Pauls, 36 Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5AB
Fixed term, flexible contract - July 2026 to July 2027
Minimum 25 hours per week
£12.71 per hour plus £1.20 per hour Local Living Allowance (applies to all, including those under the age of 21)
Are you looking for a fun and varied job in hospitality? YHA London St Pauls are looking for a Reception Team Member to join their team!
As a Reception Team Member, you'll play a key role in making our guests' experiences memorable. Your efforts will be at the core of our mission to provide exceptional hospitality.
Why work for YHA?
- 10 nights free hostel stays per year for you and up to 3 friends or family
- Access to YHA’s staff discount and cash back portal
- Free YHA Membership each year
- Access to support via our Employee Assistance Program
There are many more benefits to working for YHA so please visit our YHA Jobs website for more information.
What will you be doing as a Reception Team Member?
We are a friendly team and will provide the training required for you to undertake the role. However, there is plenty for you to get stuck into from day one, including:
- Providing great customer service to all our customers, members and guests
- Maintaining a welcoming space - keeping our reception area tidy and inviting for everyone who walks through our doors
- Working on reception, offering insights about the hostel and the local area. Ensuring every guest feels informed and welcomed
- Using our systems for efficient guest check-ins and check-outs, food and beverage sales and service
What Skills and Experience do you need to be a Reception Team Member?
Our Reception Team Members undertake a wide range of customer facing duties within the hostel, delivering an excellent service to all guests and visitors. To provide this service to our guests we are looking for the following qualities in our Reception Team Members:
- Experience of working face to face with customers
- Experience of working in a team – can help others to achieve a common goal
- Excellent timekeeping, with flexibility to cover different shifts – punctual, can work to deadlines
- Ability to manage varying pressures, include peaks in workload demands – can prioritise, able to deal with conflicting duties
- Knowledge and understanding of the core purpose of YHA – what YHA does and how we do it
- Demonstration of our HEART values – they’re part of everything we do, and we look for people who bring them to life in their everyday work
For more information about the role and the skills and experience required, please refer to the job description.
At YHA, we understand the richness of life experiences, and we place just as much importance on lived experiences as we do on skills and knowledge. We provide a robust induction, ongoing training, and opportunities for personal growth. While certain roles may require specific skills, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. For more information about how we are creating an inclusive workplace please visit our jobs website.
Who are YHA?
YHA is a social enterprise with a mission to enrich the lives of all, especially young people. YHA does this by providing brilliant hostel stays and experiences that improve physical health, mental wellbeing and life skills.
If you would like to find out more about YHA the charity, the culture, the heritage and so much more please visit our jobs website.
Reception Team Member Reception · London St Pauls employer: Youth Hostels Association (England & Wales)
The Youth Hostels Association (England & Wales) is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusivity and adventure. As a Trustee, you will not only play a crucial role in shaping the future of the charity but also benefit from opportunities for personal growth and development while working alongside passionate individuals committed to making a difference in the lives of young people. Join us in a vibrant environment that values diverse perspectives and empowers you to contribute meaningfully to our mission.
Contact Details:
Youth Hostels Association (England & Wales) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reception Team Member Reception · London St Pauls
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Trends
With temporary roles often popping up during busy seasons, like summer or festive times, keep an eye out for openings as these businesses ramp up. Joining local community groups on social media can also help you stay ahead of the game: think pop-up events, seasonal fairs, or any openings in your area!
✨Utilise Your Network in the Industry
We all know people in the hospitality world, right? Now's the time to message those friends or acquaintances who might already be working in restaurants or bars. They could give you the insider scoop on who’s hiring or even put in a good word for you – it’s all about that inside connection!
✨Apply Through Us for Quick Visibility
Don't forget you can apply for temporary roles directly through our website! It’s not just about the big chain restaurants; many smaller, local places look there for quick hires. Plus, it helps us get you on the radar of employers looking for passionate workers like you, so what are you waiting for?
We think you need these skills to ace Reception Team Member Reception · London St Pauls
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Youth Hostels Association (England & Wales)
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at Youth Hostels Association (England & Wales). During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
