Behind the scenes volunteers
Reception
Music Library
Subscriptions
ReceptionThe receptionist is considered to be one of the most important roles as it is the first point of contact for the public. It is also a role that gives you a good introduction to the station as many things pass across the Reception Desk. The receptionist needs a good phone manner and enjoys dealing with people. Duties include:
- attending to inquiries relating to volunteering, program content and program information
- dealing with subscriber enquires and taking subscription payments over the phone
- taking messages for staff and volunteers
Some computer skills are necessary – especially email usage. The reception desk is manned 7 days a week and receptionists normally perform one 3-hour shift per week. Two training sessions of 3 hours each are provided before you do your first solo shift.
Music LibraryLibrarians prepare the CDs and other recordings for all programs that are scheduled for broadcast, ready for the presenters to pick up and be played at the scheduled time. Librarians also catalogue and maintain the Station’s library of CDs, LPs and books about music. A reasonable knowledge of the classical repertoire and of its artists is required. Librarians also need a careful and methodical approach to problem solving. Experience in library or computer work is an advantage. The library is attended by at least two volunteers, every weekday morning. Each librarian works one morning a week or fortnight. Librarians start work early (between 7am and 8am) to prepare the programs for each day. This early start allows the library to be available for volunteer programmers to use in the afternoons and evenings. Training will be provided in the library procedures
SubscriptionsThe Subscriptions department maintains the lists of 2MBS subscribers and other financial supporters. It processes payments and issues reminders to subscribers. It exchanges information as needed, with other areas (accounts, members register, guide production) and prints address labels. Volunteers in this area require clerical experience – familiarity with processing payments and data entry skills are an advantage. Experience with computers is essential and knowledge of FileMaker Pro or similar database software is an advantage. Volunteers in the Subscriptions department also require an ability to give attention to detail and to work unsupervised. The Subscriptions Department must be attended daily on weekdays. It is expected that volunteers will spend on average 3 hours per week at this task, either alone or with another volunteer. Training will be provided by an experienced volunteer in the Subscriptions department. Because of its specialised nature, subscriptions work requires a high standard of detailed clerical work and long-term commitment.