It's fun and challenging being an entertainment co-ordinator Carlington Wilmot, Youth Writer Are you leaving high school and seeking a job that is fun, challenging, great for meeting people and allows you to save money? Well, becoming an entertainment co-ordinator at a north coast hotel is definitely top on the list. What does it take to become a very successful entertainment co-ordinator? Talent, energy, cultural awareness, and in general being a well-rounded people person. Passes in academics will be an asset but not an absolute necessity, as an interviewer will look for that "specific type of person." The job entails being an ambassador of sorts for Jamaica. In the hotel industry the entertainment co-ordinator is on the front line, being among the first persons to interact with guests on their arrival. So one has to be able to form friendships with the guests and make their stay as comfortable as possible. The role of an entertainment co-ordinator is to co-ordinate day and night time activities at the hotel as well as to take part in the various events. High energy and a love for fun events come as a must here. NOT ALL FUN AND GAMES An entertainment co-ordinator works six days a week and the hours can be long, although there are breaks throughout the day to recharge batteries. For a co-ordinator "tired is a bad word... you are never tired". A typical day revolves around opening the office at 8:00 a.m., selecting background music for the hotel, preparing activities schedule for the day and eating meals with guests to afford them an opportunity to know about Jamaica. Daytime activities are usually linked to sports such as basketball, volleyball, pool volleyball, table tennis, darts, pool, beach gym, tennis. Night activities mean showtime with various bands and groups participating but the co-ordinator has to party and mingle with guests to ensure they are having a great time. A successful entertainment co-ordinator is a special breed, being strong in the various areas required, but most are proficient in some areas and weak in others. Salary-wise, it's great for young people as uniforms, meals, living accomodations on property are all taken care of so most are able to save a major part of their salary for furthering their education. There is also scope for promotion other departments in the hotel. In fact, there are general managers who started out as entertainment co-ordinators. It's fun, interesting and great for a lively youngster just graduating from high school.
|
