Jamieson finds joy in her role as a concierge
Meet Jamieson, the vibrant and engaging concierge at Ardency Kennedy Place in Melbourne.
The first thing you’ll notice about her is her youthful energy and pleasant personality. Currently pursuing a degree in Human Resource Management, Jamieson is the go-to person at Ardency Kennedy Place. From supporting the wellbeing of residents to managing the daily operations of the premium residences, her can-do attitude ensures no task is too big or small.
Jamieson loves her job, not only does she gain wisdom from the residents but also receives invaluable support from her colleagues. This blend of warmth and professionalism is evident in everything she does. Here, she shares her love for the job, what makes her thrive in this role and her future aspirations.
Tell us about yourself and what inspired you to start your career at Ardency Kennedy Place?
I am currently a university student studying a degree in Human Resource Management (Psychology). After completing secondary school, I began working in medical reception, which fueled my passion for assisting others. I've always had a close relationship with older individuals in my life, so when I saw the concierge position at Ardency Kennedy Place, I knew my blend of these attributes would make me an ideal candidate and help me thrive in this role.
Can you share your experience working as a concierge?
I started as a casual concierge on the day Ardency Kennedy Place opened. After months of thoroughly enjoying the role, Ardency manager Kate Costello and assistant manager Marc Green offered me a full time position. With adjustments to my university schedule and changes to my degree, I accepted the role eagerly. I looked forward to working more closely with my colleagues and engaging regularly with residents. I often tell people that I love my job—it doesn’t feel like work.
What advice would you give to someone considering a concierge job, and what are the benefits of this role?
I would advise anyone considering a job as a concierge to be themselves. Residents enjoy chatting about their life experiences, whether it's schooling, work or life in general.
Benefits of the concierge role include gaining knowledge and wisdom from residents' life experiences, forming connections with them and working with an incredible team at Ardency Kennedy Place. Each member of the Keyton staff is approachable, helpful and kind, which enhances the role’s experience.
Each member of the Keyton staff is approachable, helpful and kind, which enhances the role’s experience.
Jamieson speaking to a group of visitors at the Grand Opening of Ardency Kennedy Place
What are your duties and responsibilities here?
From occasional dog sitting to ensuring optimal resident support and wellbeing, the concierge at Ardency Kennedy Place wears many hats. Daily duties include but are not limited to, maintaining the coffee machine (our residents love coffee!), coordinating with maintenance and housekeeping, responding to emergency calls, handling defects, conducting key audits, managing environmental health and safety (EHS) responsibilities, and assisting with social event coordination. All of us are trained first aiders and fire wardens.
How do you ensure residents' needs are met and that they feel valued and cared for?
I ensure residents’ needs are met by always being available to assist them. You'll always find me at reception with a smile and open ears. If they need assistance, I act promptly or take necessary actions. My social work studies emphasised the importance of leaving room for silence, making me a skilled listener. This attribute fosters residents' sense of value and care. Additionally, I remember every resident's name and apartment number, reflecting my dedication to this role.
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
The most rewarding part is assisting residents. It's fulfilling to know they trust me to help whenever they need it. Being that person for them makes me very happy and deepens my love for my job.
The most rewarding part is assisting residents. It's fulfilling to know they trust me to help whenever they need it.
How do you handle challenges or difficult situations that arise in your role?
As part of the operations team, we face obstacles frequently. I handle them with the support of a very cohesive team that draws knowledge from diverse backgrounds.
How do you balance work with education and personal interests? How do Keyton and the team support your goals?
I balance work, education and personal interests by maintaining a tight schedule. Keyton and the team support me immensely. They're flexible, allowing me to work a four-day week. They also accommodate my early arrival for study time in the meeting room. This schedule leaves weekends and evenings free for me to spend with family and friends.
Jamieson with her supportive team
What do you like most about working at Ardency Kennedy Place?
I love the daily conversations with residents, knowing they enjoy them as much as I do. I also appreciate the building's bustling nature, with frequent events and busy foyer traffic from residents on walks, outings or showing family and friends around.
Tell us three qualities you bring to this role to ensure success. How do you envision your growth in this position?
Three qualities I bring are effective communication, kindness and hard work. These qualities ensure maximum effort in my job and make me approachable. Working for a large company like Keyton expands my understanding of corporate operations. I often relate university lessons to real-life examples, which fosters tremendous growth and prepares me for future career skills.
Find out more about your career opportunities at Keyton.
For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550 or send us an email here.
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