History and Heritage jobs in the United Kingdom are part of a growing industry. According to Office for National Statistics (ONS) research, the tourism industry provided a third of all new jobs created in the UK between 2010 and 2013 and is the UK’s third largest employer accounting for 9.6% of total employment. (www.tourismalliance.com)
What do I need?
That depends on what area you choose to focus. Jobs in the heritage sector include curators, archivists and educators, as well as people acquiring, developing, maintaining, conserving and interpreting artefacts and art to name a few things. For these specific jobs, a relevant degree and further qualifications may be required, particularly if specialising in a unique area. Check several job adverts to find out what employers are currently looking for. Other positions will be open to any degree discipline.
What skills will I need to evidence?
- Genuine enthusiasm, passion, curiosity and an interest in the sector
- Excellent communication skills
- Confidence in dealing with the public and addressing groups of people
- Teaching skills depending on role
- imagination and creativity
- Ability to manage volunteers, budgets and resources
- Self-motivation and the ability to work independently
- Organisational and admin skills
- Knowledge and sensitivity to cultural issues (Prospects.ac.uk)
Experience
Your experience also needs to stand out to employers. In interviews, you need to show your passion for the heritage sites or attractions you would be working with. Good places to get experience in heritage roles include; Northern Ireland Museums Council, the National Trust and on Volunteer Now.
There are growing opportunities here in NI including some from key employers such as Culture Northern Ireland and National Museums NI. If you are interested in going over the water, look for opportunities from organisations such as The British Library, The National Archives, The British Museum and The National Gallery. For networking purposes or unadvertised positions, volunteer at heritage sites to get included in internal communications and if you have ever volunteered somewhere, let them know you’re looking for a job as they may have something appropriate for you. Also, contact groups on LinkedIn. Websites such as www.tourismni.com show paid and volunteering opportunities and www.museumjobs.com have further information on jobs in the heritage sector. Research, volunteering and passion are the key things to get you nearer your dream job within this industry. (CE)