On Wed, November 13, 2013 8:50 am, Elizabeth Walton wrote:
> I agree 110% on customer service experience. Someone who has waited tables
> for more than a few months will be able to start conversations with
> strangers and keeping a smile on their face no matter how looney toons the
> customer is.

I would also look for anything that indicates experience or an aptitute
for dealing with special needs patrons as well. Back in the day when I was
head of interpretation at a restored iron works community, we had an issue
with special needs groups. Some of the long time volunteers simply didn't
know how to deal with, or adapt to, visitors with special needs. We had
one lead docent whose attitude, before the groups even got to the site,
was critical of what they wouldn't be able to do. It was difficult getting
through to my interpreters and docents that special needs visitors will
know what they can and cannot do much more than you ever will. In fact,
what those visitors could do often was a surprise to the interpreters who
were sure that they couldn't
These groups are often the best to interact with.
My favorite visitors were two deaf couples I met while working in our
blacksmith shop. One of the wives read lips and we had a lovely, lengthy
conversation about the trade. She would sign to her companions what I had
spoken. I made sure that I did a little work and then turned towards the
visitors and spoke clearly and directly at them. Then I would turn, do a
little more work and repeat. This way we could talk without distractions
and we could understand each other. It was a very nice experience and they
were very happy as well.
I would not understimate that skill in any interpreter and your training
should certainly include a component on interacting with visitors with a
wide range of special needs. It really is a crucial skill and a rewarding
experience.

Scott Peters
-- 
732-492-9216
Jersely Speaking,  Minister of trivia, errata and miscellany --
 Founding Trustee, The Jewish Heritage Museum of Monmouth County
 ------------------------
 "The ordinary distinctions in society are often vague, and imply no just
pre-eminence: rank and titles are adventitious
 things and instead of designating merit or virtue, are frequently the
baubles of imbecility, or the sparkling decorations of meretricious
pageantry" William Griffith, 1803

=========================================================
Important Subscriber Information:

The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes).

If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).