What employing a valet says about your business  

Customer experience is critical for every business–especially if you are in the hospitality industry. Valets are an often overlooked member of the customer service team, but they can make a huge impact on the customer experience. Being received by the valet upon arriving at a restaurant, hotel or other establishment can put the customer at ease before they even step through the front door. This level of service also brings with it a sense of luxury. A business that hires a valet is demonstrating that they will spare no expense to ensure customer satisfaction and convenience.

What is a valet?

A valet is responsible for parking, caring for and retrieving cars for customers at restaurants, hotels and other hospitality venues. Valets are often positioned at the front entrances of businesses, so may also perform other customer service duties, like giving directions, local recommendations, or answering questions about the business. A valet is the first and last representative of a business that the customer encounters, so they play a big part in a customer’s perception of a business.

Why are they important?

First and foremost, valet parking is an added convenience for your guests. Valets ensure customers don’t have to worry about finding a parking space, navigating an unknown area or walking a long distance between their car and your business. Lack of parking can even deter people from visiting your establishment at all. 

Time is money, and it’s a valuable thing to both you and your customers. Saving your patrons the time and hassle of searching for parking—sometimes up to 15 or 30 minutes in busy areas—means more time for your customers or guests inside your business. Parking in designated valet areas also ensures security of customers’ vehicles, giving them peace of mind throughout their stay. 

Finally, valet parking gives a business an air of sophistication and care, extending the customer service journey beyond the establishment itself and quickly giving you a reputation for excellent service. Being assisted by a friendly and competent valet can help the customer feel welcomed and valued before they even enter the business, increasing the chances of a positive customer experience and return customers.

Common duties of a valet

Responsibilities of valets include:

●       Greeting customers outside of an establishment

●       Parking cars for the customer

●       Monitoring the safety and security of customer’s cars

●       Helping load and unload luggage, where appropriate

●       Maintaining the parking lot and front entrance of the business

●       Perform regular customer service duties, including answering questions and receiving complaints

Key skills for valets

A valet is often described as an entry-level position, however a competent valet should be able to demonstrate key skills to provide excellent customer service. Key skills for valets in any establishment include:

●       Safe and responsible driving

●       Verbal communication skills

●       Customer service

●       Ability to stand or walk for long periods of time

●       Accountability and responsibility (for customer’s property and business image)

●       Ability to work quickly and flexibly

●       Organizational skills

Where can I hire a valet?

As customers return to restaurants and hotels in person, and with more customers using their personal vehicles, valets are becoming valuable employees for any customer service establishment. Register now to post your job and start hiring!