Parkwood National Historic Site was the home of Auto-Baron R.S. McLaughlin and his family. Our mission is to preserve the rich history of Parkwood while educating visitors on the McLaughlin family legacy. More than a museum, Parkwood is a living story that offers the community extraordinary experiences that embrace the past and inspire the future.
We are seeking a friendly and professional Tour Guide to provide our guests with an exceptional experience while visiting our facility. Reporting to the Gift Shop & Tour Guide Coordinator, in this role, you will be responsible for engaging visitors for the duration of the tour, sharing interesting facts about the history of our organization and answering any questions they may have. You will also provide support and excellent customer service to customers in our Gift Shop and on the grounds of the Estate.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Gift Shop & Tour Guide Coordinator, individuals in this role are responsible for ensuring that visitors to Parkwood have the best possible experience while at Parkwood.
Tour Guide
- Greet all guests promptly at scheduled tour times
- Determine if any guests have physical restrictions that should be considered
- Clearly and articulately provide information to guests in an engaging manner
- Answer any questions that the guests may have
- Demonstrate extensive knowledge of our facility and the McLaughlin Family
- Remain calm, friendly, and enthusiastic at all times
- Escort guests through the mansion on their tour in a safe and friendly manner while providing an exceptional experience
Operations
- Willingness and initiative to aid guests who require assistance booking/checking in for tours using our online booking programs
- Process customer payments in a friendly and timely manner at the sales desk using our POS system
- Check in guests for workshops that happen onsite
Gift Shop
- Maintain in-depth product knowledge of store items, tours and specialty programs that are offered, to provide advice and recommendations for guests.
- Demonstrate initiative when performing daily cleaning duties that ensure the Carriage House remains organized and clean, meeting the highest of standards to ensure the best possible experience for our guests.
- Relay ideas for merchandise and/or sharing visitor feedback ideas
- Prepare Gift Shop for upcoming events to ensure there is a clean and welcoming environment in addition to ensuring space are ready (tables, chairs, cleanliness, etc)
- Support with merchandising products in the Gift Shop
Other
- Other duties as assigned
Tour Guide Requirements and Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent; associate or bachelor’s degree is a plus
- Significant work experience in customer service preferred
- Experience with public speaking is a plus
- Able to memorize and recite facts clearly and accurately
- Fluent in English; bilingual a plus
- Exceptional communication skills with an ability to connect to guests
- Computer skills, and willingness to learn recent software (Shopify, Fareharbor)
- Flexible schedule