Where does the term ''concierge'' come from what is its role in the hotel industry?

I just came back from my vacation in Italy where I met other people doing the same job as me. In fact, the job of concierge originated in Europe, specifically France.

The term "concierge" comes from the Latin word conservius meaning "with service".

Since the Middle Ages, concierges have filled important administrative functions, the word "concierge" evolved in French by appointing a royal officer in charge of the custody of the royal palace to the court. That means, seeks after the administration, domestic services and meet the demands of the court.

But in the 20th century, the profession of concierge developed in the field of hospitality, first in Europe, North America and in most countries.

In upscale hospitality, the concierge will outperforms so that each client feels considered a VIP . The concierge is the intermediary between customers and various departments of the hotel as well as additional services. A hotel concierge function is to provide a high level of service to an exclusive clientele. The concierge takes care of them by answering all their questions, their demands and desires while respecting a legal framework.

Whether they want to find a brand of perfume, print their boarding pass, go dog sledding, snowmobiling, discover the local cuisine or any other specific requests, the concierge is there to help, book, guide and recommend them what is best in order to make the most of their stay at the hotel. The concierge service is a service you find in luxury hotels at the service of clients with higher expectations. This is a very popular department, which guests do not forget.

A concierge with Clefs d'Or is a concierge who has received recognition from his peers and his employer, confirming the high quality of service and experience. A long process must be followed to acquire Clefs d'Or and as much work to preserve them. For example, we must be involved in our local association (participate in monthly meetings of our section of Quebec, which is part of the Canadian section, which is part of the International Association) and so on.

Finally, the concierge Clefs d’Or is a professional who has extensive knowledge in the communities where he evolves (hotel and city) and a general culture in order to have the ability to address to a clientele from different backgrounds.

I invite you to write me should you have any comments, questions or would like more information. You can do this via the comments section at the bottom of the blog, by email at louisemorin@vieuxquebec.com or on our Facebook page.

Do not forget my weekly livestream every Thursday!

Louise Morin
Chef Concierge – Clefs d’Or Canada

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