Each month, the West End Hotel**** is delighted to shine the spotlight on its staff through a series of questions designed to find out more about their jobs and what drives them in the course of their duties. Today, the hotel is honouring Soléméa Terrazzoni, first receptionist at the West End Hotel.

Can you introduce yourself?
I’m 21 and I’ve been first receptionist at the West End Hotel for a year and a half. I’m also in charge of training new people in the profession. After taking a Bac Pro in cookery at secondary school in Ajaccio, I did a lot of work experience in the kitchen and that’s how I got into the hotel and restaurant business. Then I came to Nice to study for my BTS in Hotel and Catering Management at the Lycée Paul Augier, and after passing it, I turned to reception and housekeeping.

What do you love most about your job?
What I love most about my job is the contact with customers. I’m there to inform them, guide them, advise them… and that’s how we build relationships. For example, I used to know a couple who came on holiday to the West End Hotel and told me every day what they had done all day.

What advice would you give to an employee just starting out?
If I had to give one piece of advice to an employee just starting out, it would be to remain calm in all situations, to take time with customers, to listen to them properly and to meet their expectations. To do this job, you have to be passionate.

What’s your favourite part of the West End Hotel?
My favourite place is undoubtedly the lobby, because that’s where you can talk to guests and get to know them. Being a receptionist is above all a human job!

What are your best memories?
I don’t have any particular memories, but in general they’re those of the customers I get on well with.

Finally, what advice would you give customers to help them make the most of their stay?
The best way to discover Nice is to get lost in the streets of the old town, to see Nice authentically, and to push open the doors of its local and Italian restaurants.