Holders of Knowledge. Keepers of Secrets!
Ever wondered what it would be like to be a concierge in a 5-star hotel?
A concierge is the first point of contact for hotel guests and is responsible for providing information and fulfilling guest requests, no matter how outlandish they may be. They draw on their impeccable knowledge of their city and their vast networks to ensure each guest has a memorable stay.
"The role allows you to channel your inner Tom Cruise and make the impossible possible. It makes you love our great city more and more with every experience and event you attend. We are the original influencers. As a colleague of mine once said, "We know - because we go" said Teacher Hospitality Programs Anthony Szostak.
National President Rhett Constantine and member of Les Clefs d'Or Australia (The Golden Keys Australia), the pre-eminent association of hotel concierges, conducted their bi-monthly meeting for Victoria and Tasmania at the Angliss International Hotel School (AIHS) hosted by Angliss Director of Education Chris Harris.
Visiting the Melbourne campus of William Angliss Institute for the first time, Rhett felt like he was back at work seeing the hotel inspired design of the AIHS, which gives students exposure to a five-star standard accommodation. “I’m sure this training environment gives students an encouraging and relaxed feeling while working towards employment within the hotel industry,” he said.
Rhett’s involvement with hotels started in 1998, as a Porter at the Mercure Resort Surfers Paradise with Accor Hotels & Resorts, while working under former Les Clefs d’Or Member Adam Keast. “Seeing Mr Keast in his role inspired me to pursue a career in the hospitality industry,” said Rhett.
Having worked for some prestige establishments worldwide such as: Novotel on Collins Melbourne, South Mole Island Whitsundays, Desert Gardens Northern Territory, Sofitel Melbourne, The Grove Estate London, Hayman Island and Qualia, Hamilton Island, it was Qualia that was one of the biggest challenges of Rhett’s career when he was invited to be a part of the pre-opening team as the Chief Concierge.
Throughout his eventful years of service, Rhett has assisted in last minute corporate jet bookings, securing front row tickets to the Australian Open, VIP access to Melbourne’s hottest bars, and ensured that hotel guests’ requests are met at their next destination through Les Clefs d’Or’s motto ‘In Service Through Friendship’.
“The best insight into a new destination is via your hotel Concierge. Make sure you take a moment to chat with them as it will open up a whole new world,” suggested Rhett.
Les Clefs d'Or is a global organisation, founded in France in 1929 and internationally in 1952 with Australia joining as a member section in 1976. Membership requires significant experience as a concierge and the successful completion of a stringent entry process. Members can be recognised by a distinctive pin worn on their lapels which depicts two crossed golden keys.
Rhett encourages those seeking a career in the hospitality industry to consider the concierge role and becoming a member of Les Clefs d’Or. “The recognition received in line with the global network connection, opens doors not only for your hotel guests but also to a life of excitement and the ability to make the unachievable, achievable,” he said.
Angliss International Hotel School offers a broad range of hotel management training. Anthony explained, “Provide Porter Services and Provide Visitor Information are two of our subjects equipping students for a career offering exceptional service in the international hotel industry,”
Kick start your hospitality career and visit Diploma of Hospitality Management to enrol, email study@angliss.edu.au or call on +613 8595 5334 to learn more.
Published 25 July 2023
