Andrew Bright 
Job Title
Senior Information and Sales Assistant
Company and location
Britain and London Visitor Centre, central London
Industry sector
Travel and tourism
What does your job involve?
Answering queries about London and the UK, by phone and face-to-face. Selling display space to visitor attractions and tour operators in London, offering slots for flyers, posters etc.
How did you get into that area of work?
I’ve been here for a year. I studied French at university and the course included a year as a classroom assistant outside Paris. I loved it so much, I stayed for two! When I graduated I worked in a local supermarket but I really wanted a job that used my language skills. I was in London shopping one day and just decided to drop into the centre and ask if they had any jobs going.
What do you like about your job?
The variety. No two questions are the same, so you’re always learning. For a first full-time job with languages I couldn’t have done better. The skills I’ve developed in dealing with customers, handling difficult situations, complaints etc are really useful and transferable. I want to work for Eurostar one day.
What skills and qualities do you need to do your job?
Foreign languages are essential. You also need good knowledge of the UK, confidence and the ability to build rapport with people. Visitors coming in here want to enjoy their holiday. The welcome we give them is one of the memories they’ll take home with them.
Do you speak any languages other than French?
When I was living in France, I had a Spanish flatmate who didn’t speak any English. Spanish and French are quite similar so I started to pick up some words. When I got back to university for my final year, I took a beginners’ module. I’m about to do a refresher course, paid for by work.
How do you use your languages at work?
Helping people who are lost! And telling people what they can see and do in London and other parts of the UK. People can get a bit stressed when they’re in a foreign country; they want to be able to speak their own language. Most of the French people who come in here assume we can speak French. Lots of Spanish visitors don’t speak English but they don’t expect fluency in their language. My Spanish is basic but a few words and phrases are enough to help people out. No-one ever criticises if I get stuck or make mistakes – they’re just happy I’ve made the effort.
Different nationalities behave in different ways and understanding their culture helps you give the right kind of customer service. It also influences the advice you give. For example, 2 and 3 star hotels in France are a bit different from English ones. If you can explain that, people are less likely to get disappointed.
Any tips?
If you’re at school now, it’s the perfect time to be learning a language. When you come to look for a job, language skills help you stand out from the crowd. We’re already getting questions here about the Olympics. People will be coming over here for the sport and won’t necessarily be able to speak English so there’ll be loads of opportunities. Learn a language for 2012!