A corporate concierge serves the needs of business clients in the same way that a hotel concierge serves hotel guests. He typically assists employees, managers, and executives in obtaining services for business activities and personal enjoyment so that they can focus on their work without being distracted the stresses of everyday life. A corporate concierge is employed a number of large corporations, though the majority of those in this position run their own businesses or work as independent contractors.
Some of his clients’ requests for services are fairly standard. Finding good seats for theater productions, concerts, and sporting events, as well as arranging limousine services and tours, and making restaurant reservations in the area, are all examples of these services. Picking up dry cleaning, sending flowers to family members and associates, and purchasing small gifts are all common services provided a corporate concierge. Clients frequently inquire about arranging business services such as photocopying or computer rentals.
In some cases, a corporate concierge is asked to provide unusual services. Chartering jets, airplanes, and helicopters, as well as arranging hot air balloon rides and renting yachts, are common examples. A confident corporate concierge often takes pride in being able to meet almost any client need that is legal and feasible if the funds are available and authorized.
If the concierge has a long-term contract with a company, he is usually expected to plan all company parties and corporate events as well. The concierge typically hires the caterer, chooses a menu, arranges entertainment, and rents a venue after meeting with key personnel to determine their wants and needs. If an event requires gifts, he is usually the one who purchases them and delivers them to the event, nicely wrapped and tagged.
In order to be successful in this position, you must have excellent organizational skills. He frequently serves multiple companies at the same time, so his time management skills are essential to keeping everyone happy. Because so many requests from different clients, such as limousine service, are similar, his attention to detail is crucial to his success. It is usually of utmost importance to his clients to send the correct size limo to take passengers to the correct airport or restaurant.
A corporate concierge’s interpersonal communication skills are also a valuable asset. He frequently interacts with people who are tired and irritable, attempting to make their day better. Patience, empathy, and a good sense of humor are all desirable qualities for someone working in this field.
Although there are no specific educational requirements for this position, most corporate concierge firms prefer their employees to have a bachelor’s degree. Applicants with strong contacts in the hospitality and service industries, as well as knowledge of the area served the company, are generally preferred. An aspiring corporate concierge may be required to have prior work experience in public relations or customer service.