Ushers and Guest Services Attendants
Overview
Ushers and Guest Services Attendants are responsible for managing crowds, handling tickets, and providing seating assistance at various events. They greet guests, ensure tickets are valid, guide attendees to their seats, and address any seating-related inquiries. These roles require good communication skills and the ability to handle fast-paced environments.
Did you know?
Most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in hospitality management, event planning, or related fields, along with industry certifications like CMP or CSEP.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$29,278.04 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Programming
Key Responsibilities
- Settle seating disputes or help solve other customer concerns.
- Manage inventory or sale of artist merchandise.
- Page individuals wanted at the box office.
- Refuse admittance to undesirable persons or persons without tickets or passes.
- Assist patrons by giving directions to points in or outside of the facility or providing information about local attractions.
- Maintain order and ensure adherence to safety rules.
- Greet patrons attending entertainment events.
- Give door checks to patrons who are temporarily leaving establishments.
- Verify credentials of patrons desiring entrance into press box and permit only authorized persons to enter.
- Count and record number of tickets collected.
- Guide patrons to exits or provide other instructions or assistance in case of emergency.
- Distribute programs to patrons.
- Clean facilities.
- Sell or collect admission tickets, passes, or facility memberships from patrons at entertainment events.
- Schedule or manage staff, such as volunteer usher corps.
- Lead tours and answer visitors' questions about the exhibits.
- Operate refreshment stands during intermission or obtain refreshments for press box patrons during performances.
- Provide assistance with patrons' special needs, such as helping those with wheelchairs.
- Manage informational kiosks or displays of event signs or posters.
- Examine tickets or passes to verify authenticity, using criteria such as color or date issued.
- Search for lost articles or for parents of lost children.
- Assist patrons in finding seats, lighting the way with flashlights, if necessary.
- Work with others to change advertising displays.
Career Considerations
Educational Requirements and Certifications
Most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in hospitality management, event planning, or related fields, along with industry certifications like CMP or CSEP.
Physical and Emotional Demands
The role requires long hours on your feet, working weekends and holidays, and managing high-stress situations while maintaining excellent customer service.
Networking and Relationship Building
Success in the American hospitality industry heavily depends on building strong relationships with vendors, clients, and industry professionals for repeat business and referrals.