How to Be Parking Attendant - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 6, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The number of vehicles on the road has been steadily increasing, resulting in a need for more parking attendants. Parking attendants help direct traffic and maintain order in parking lots and other areas where cars are parked. They also help to ensure that drivers respect the designated parking areas and do not park in unauthorized places like sidewalks.

When parking attendants are present, drivers can find a space quickly, reducing the amount of time spent looking for a spot. parking attendants can help reduce issues such as double parking, which can cause congestion and safety hazards. Furthermore, having a parking attendant provides an additional layer of security for cars, as they can keep an eye on the vehicles and alert authorities if there is suspicious activity.

Steps How to Become

Meet the minimum qualifications. Most employers require applicants to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
Obtain a valid driver's license. As a parking attendant, you will need to be able to move around the parking lot in order to monitor activity and direct traffic.
Research local employers. Parking lots are found in a variety of places, from shopping malls to hospitals, so check with local employers to see if they are hiring.
Apply for the position. Submit a well-written resume and cover letter highlighting your qualifications for the position.
Prepare for the interview. Research the company and practice answers to common interview questions.
Participate in on-site training. Once hired, you will attend an orientation session and may undergo additional training on safety protocols and customer service.
Wear the appropriate uniform and equipment. Many employers provide uniforms and safety equipment, such as reflective vests, that must be worn while on duty.
Follow company policies and procedures. As a parking attendant, you must adhere to all company policies and procedures, including those related to customer service, safety, and security.

To stay ahead and competent as a Parking Attendant, it is important to stay up to date with the latest industry trends, regulations and safety protocols. Keeping abreast with the changes in the parking industry can help attendants stay ahead of the competition by understanding the most efficient methods of managing parking areas. staying informed on the latest technological advancements can help attendants reduce traffic congestion, improve customer service, and enhance their overall efficiency.

Furthermore, staying aware of local laws and regulations can help attendants adhere to the law and ensure that their customers are provided with a safe and secure parking experience. Lastly, gaining knowledge through continuing education courses and training can help attendants stay competent and knowledgeable about their profession. With these strategies, Parking Attendants can remain ahead of the game and provide excellent service to their customers.

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Job Description

Greet customers and collect payment for parking
Monitor parking lot and maintain order
Direct customers to available parking spaces
Respond to customer inquiries and complaints
Assist with traffic control
Assist customers in loading and unloading vehicles
Assist with vehicle exits
Assist with valet services
Maintain a clean and orderly parking lot
Report any suspicious activity to the supervisor

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to communicate effectively with customers
Ability to remain calm and professional in high-pressure situations
Knowledge of basic traffic control regulations
Ability to handle cash and credit card transactions
Ability to operate parking lot equipment such as automated gates and ticket machines
Ability to accurately answer customer inquiries
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Ability to stand for long periods of time
Ability to lift heavy objects
Basic computer skills

Having good customer service skills is an essential skill for a parking attendant. If a parking attendant can provide friendly and helpful customer service, it can have a positive effect on the overall parking experience. This can result in more customers feeling comfortable and safe when they park in the lot, leading to an increase in revenue for the business.

a parking attendant with good customer service skills can help to reduce customer complaints, as they can handle difficult situations calmly and professionally. Furthermore, having excellent communication and problem-solving skills will help a parking attendant to be able to effectively manage and direct customers and deal with any potential safety issues or disputes. good customer service skills are an invaluable asset for any parking attendant, as they can help to ensure that customers are satisfied with their experience and that the business is thriving.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as a parking attendant?
Describe how you handle customer complaints.
How do you stay organized while managing multiple tasks?
How do you ensure that the parking lot is safe and secure?
What steps do you take to maintain the cleanliness of the parking lot?
Do you have experience collecting payments?
How do you handle difficult customers?
What methods do you use to keep track of parked cars?
How do you resolve conflicts with other parking attendants?
What measures do you take to ensure that all transactions are accurate?

Common Tools in Industry

Cash Register. A machine used to record and process payments from customers (eg: an electronic cash register).
Parking Ticket Book. Book containing parking tickets used to track parking payments (eg: a book of pre-printed parking tickets).
Vehicle Identification Scanner. Device used to read vehicle license plates and identify cars (eg: a barcode scanner).
Coin Sorter. Device used to count and separate coins by denomination (eg: a mechanical coin sorter).
Credit Card Reader. Machine used to process payments made with credit cards (eg: a card reader attached to a computer).
Intercom System. Communication system used to communicate with customers from a distance (eg: an intercom system with speakers).
Calculation Device. Tool used for calculations and making change for customers (eg: a calculator or cash register).
Manuals. Reference books containing instructions and policies for the job (eg: a parking attendant manual).

Professional Organizations to Know

International Parking Institute
National Parking Association
American Public Transportation Association
Institute of Transportation Engineers
National Association of City Transportation Officials
International Association of Parking Professionals
National Parking Association of Canada
International Parking Designers Association
American Association of Airport Executives
National Association of Professional Valet Attendants

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Common Important Terms

Valet Parking. A service in which a parking attendant parks and retrieves a customer's vehicle for a fee.
Parking Lot. A designated area for parking vehicles.
Security. Measures taken to protect people and property from harm or damage.
Traffic Control. The regulation of movement of vehicles and pedestrians in an area.
Customer Service. The act of providing assistance and support to customers.
Automobile. A wheeled motor vehicle used for transportation.
Cash Handling. The process of collecting, counting, processing, and recording cash payments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job of a Parking Attendant?

A Parking Attendant is responsible for collecting fees, issuing parking tickets, and providing directions and other customer service duties related to parking.

How many hours does a Parking Attendant typically work?

A Parking Attendant typically works 8-hour shifts, with some weekend and evening hours depending on the business's operating hours.

What qualifications are required for a Parking Attendant job?

Generally, no formal qualifications are required for a Parking Attendant job but some employers may prefer applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent. Previous customer service experience is also beneficial.

What are the duties of a Parking Attendant?

The duties of a Parking Attendant include collecting fees, issuing parking tickets, providing directions, monitoring parking lots, and providing customer service to patrons.

What safety precautions should a Parking Attendant take?

Parking Attendants should always be aware of their surroundings and take necessary safety precautions such as wearing reflective clothing or a vest, carrying a radio or phone, and remaining alert at all times.