Everything you need to know about being a Hotel Porter
Do you want to work in the hospitality industry? Then consider starting your career as a Hotel Porter. From welcoming guests to carrying luggage, there is a range of responsibilities that are associated with this position. If you have great people skills and are reliable, this might just be the right position for you. Completing additional training is advantageous if you want to advance your career. You can find a variety of hotel jobs on Job Mail.
What is a hotel porter?
A hotel porter has a similar role to that of a bellman, however, porters complete their responsibilities outside the hotel while a bellman is typically responsible for taking care of guests inside the hotel. Porters are responsible for greeting guests and welcoming them to the hotel as well as helping guests with their luggage. Employees in this role generally get remunerated by tips from guests so it’s important that they offer an outstanding service. If you want to work in the hospitality industry, becoming a porter is a great opportunity to start your career. Enthusiasm and dedication go a long way towards showing your employers that you’re a worthwhile member of their staff. Once you’ve gained experience, you can look for opportunities for additional training so that you can advance your career.
What are their responsibilities?
A core duty of a Hotel Porter is to welcome guests when they arrive. They meet the guests at the entrance, collect their luggage, and ensure that the luggage is taken to the correct room. When guests are leaving, they help to put the luggage into taxis or cars. Porters are also responsible for carrying our errands for visitors and they’re focused on making sure that the visitors are satisfied with their stay. In the event of an emergency, porters help to evacuate guests. Employees in this role may also be tasked with rearranging furniture and holding open the door for customers.
Requirements and skills
Since hotel jobs involve working with guests, porters need to have a polite and professional demeanour. They are usually the first hotel staff member to meet the guests, which means that it’s important for them to make a good first impression. Staff members in this role are expected to dress neatly and to maintain high levels of personal hygiene. To succeed in the hospitality industry, you’ll need to be attentive and you’ll also need to be able to pay attention to detail. You’ll need to be strong and healthy to carry guest’s luggage and to spend long periods on your feet.
Porters need outstanding communication and interpersonal capabilities, and they must be able to work as part of a team. Hotel jobs typically require porters to complete shifts and it involves working irregular hours. You don’t need any qualifications to become a porter. A high school certificate will increase your chances of getting hired but it is not mandatory for this role. This entry-level position is an opportunity to advance your career.
Salary expectation and alternative job options
An alternative career opportunity is to find employment as a hotel bellman. According to PayScale porters can expect to earn R61 085 per annum. Other job opportunities are available for porters in country clubs, airports and golf courses.
Now that you know more about the responsibilities of hotel porters, you can look for employment opportunities online. This position offers you a gateway into the hospitality industry. Look for opportunities for additional training so that you can advance your career once you’ve gained experience in this role.
I really need this since I’m struggling to find a job
Hi Victor,
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