Take me I’m yours

In my generally unenthusiastic efforts to secure gainful employment, I came to the conclusion that as no one wanted to employ me for money, a prospective employer might welcome me offering to do something for nothing. In other words, volunteering. But volunteering top do what? None of the roles I saw especially appealed to me, except one. Bristol Airport were looking for customer service volunteers to work a few hours a week “to enhance the passenger and visitor experience by providing exceptional customer service, while conveying helpful information and friendly guidance with a patient, positive attitude reflective of our airport community.” I’ve always fancied working for money at Bristol Airport, but in the absence of paid opportunities, I thought I’d apply for one that didn’t pay. Things have not gone well.

There are some staff benefits:

• Discounts on food and beverages and specified retail outlets in the Terminal Building
• Discounted transport cost of the Flyer bus service between Bristol and the Airport
• Free car parking when at work
• Travel expenses within a 20 mile radius
• Free Uniform
• Full training and support provided

Any expenditure whatsoever would see me effectively paying to work, but I quite liked the idea of being at a place where I spend part of the best day of the year: the day I go on holiday.

I know what it’s like, not knowing where the hell the queue is for check-in, or what to do when you get there. It would be good to explain to people why the escalator to security is out of order because when I was there, I couldn’t find anyone. On 13th July 2022, I duly sent off my application. Basically, I’m offering to work for nothing. Come and get me. But it’s 2nd August 2022 today and guess what? They haven’t replied.

Today, I have written again to the airport asking them to confirm whether there has been an oversight on their part or that they just don’t want me. I will of course report back in due course when they haven’t replied to my latest email, but it does make you wonder, doesn’t it?

Although the day you go on holiday is the best day of the year – always assuming your flight doesn’t get delayed or cancelled – airport day can be stressful and difficult.  I would have thought someone offering a few hours a week for nothing represents a good deal for the airport, but I’m guessing that the Ottawa Teachers Pension Plan, who own the airport, are just going through the motions. Four weeks and no reply does suggest they are talking the talk, but that’s all. Reduced price Burger King can wait.