Editing New Volunteer Training (section)

== MEETING GUESTS ==
Greet everyone with friendly pleasure at their appearance. The best opening is:

'''1 — “Welcome to the museum! What brings you here today?”'''

While many people come to look around, many others come for a specific other reason. This opening let’s them know you are interested in them and their situation.

'''2 — “Would you sign our guest book?”'''

Tracking attendance is important in funding, grants, accommodation taxes, etc. If they aren’t here to browse the collection, still ask them to sign in (unless they are repair/service personnel).

If they are here for a different reason, of course you can switch to that; otherwise…

'''3 — “Would you like a guided tour?”'''

Some people enjoy browsing by themselves; others appreciate a “tour” and discussion about the items. Give them the option. You can usually tell from their responses if they would like you to go with them. Some will look and then return to ask questions or take you to an area to ask about a specific item. If you don’t know, say so. We don’t know everything about each item.

'''4 — Have you seen my [peanut butter]?'''

Finding a favorite item of your own, one that really is interesting or meaningful to you, can be a great way to strike up a conversation.

'''5 — Engage the children.'''

Kids are often ignored in “adult” museums; but they  should ''love'' history after visiting our museum — and it’s usually up to us to make that happen. For example, the peanut butter question to a child acts as a way of showing that history is interesting, and opens a chance to make it real and meaningful: “this is from a time when people had very little money and very little to eat. Someone protected this jar and kept it safe as a last emergency supply in case they had nothing else to eat ever. That we have it still full lets us know that this person came out OK and never needed it - whew!”

'''6 — “We’re beginning work on some new exhibits. This brochure explains more.”'''

Being a free but standalone museum, we are continually in need of funding. This is a current way to help without being pushy.


One docent should stay near the front to greet people. While people are in the galleries, it’s a good idea for the other docent to circulate. Even if they didn’t want a guided tour, watch how they engage with the collection. If they show particular interest in something, engage with them in conversation about it. If they are reticent and don’t want to talk, don’t push it; but many people appreciate the engagement.