17 Museum Guide Interview Questions and Answers

Museum guides are the public face of museums. They are responsible for giving tours, answering questions, and providing information about the museum’s exhibits to visitors. They also may be responsible for giving talks, writing articles, and doing other public relations work.

If you want to work as a museum guide, you’ll need to be able to answer questions about the museum’s exhibits, as well as the history and art behind them. You’ll also need to be able to talk about the museum’s collection and the work that goes into maintaining it.

In this guide, you’ll find several museum guide interview questions and answers.

Are you comfortable speaking in front of groups of people?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you are comfortable with public speaking and can do so confidently. If you have experience giving tours or presentations, share a story about one time you did this successfully.

Example: “I’ve been giving museum tours for three years now, and I find it very rewarding to be able to educate others on the history of our world. One time, I was leading a group through the Egyptian exhibit when I noticed a child crying because they were scared of the mummies. I asked if they would like me to hold their hand while we walked past them, and they agreed. Afterward, they told their parents how much fun they had and said they didn’t want to leave.”

What are some of your interests that relate to this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and interests. They want to make sure you are passionate about the museum’s mission, exhibits and collections. When answering this question, try to relate your personal interests to the job description. This can show that you have a genuine interest in the position.

Example: “I am very interested in history, so I love working at this museum. I also enjoy learning about different cultures and traveling. The museum has many artifacts from around the world, which is why I find it so interesting. I would love to be able to share these experiences with visitors.”

How would you handle a disruptive visitor?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your conflict resolution skills. They want to know that you can keep a visitor’s attention and diffuse a situation without causing harm or embarrassment. In your answer, explain how you would handle the situation while still keeping the visitor safe and maintaining their dignity.

Example: “I once had a visitor who was very disruptive during my tour. He kept asking me questions about things I hadn’t even covered yet. I calmly told him that we could discuss his questions after the tour when I explained everything. This helped calm him down and he listened for the rest of the tour. If someone is being disruptive, I will try to diffuse the situation as quickly as possible so other visitors don’t feel uncomfortable.”

What is your knowledge of the subject matter of this position?

Interviewers ask this question to see if you have the necessary background knowledge for the position. They want to know that you can effectively communicate information to visitors and answer their questions. In your answer, explain what you know about the museum’s collection or exhibits. Show that you are passionate about the subject matter and eager to share it with others.

Example: “I am a huge fan of art history, so I’ve been visiting museums since I was a child. I remember going on school field trips here when I was in middle school. I also took an introductory course on art history at my local community college. I learned quite a bit about the different periods of art and how they relate to each other. I think I would be a great fit for this position because I understand the context of the pieces in this museum.”

Provide an example of a time when you solved a problem at work.

Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills. They want to know how you would approach a challenging situation at work and whether you have the ability to think critically. When answering this question, try to describe a time when you used critical thinking to solve a problem.

Example: “At my previous job as a museum guide, I had a group of visitors who were very disruptive. The children in the group were running around and making loud noises while their parents did not seem to care. This was causing other guests to leave because they could not enjoy the exhibits. So, I approached the family and asked them if they would mind keeping their kids under control. They apologized and said they would do better. After that, I made sure to keep an eye on the family so they knew I was watching.”

If hired, what would be your priorities?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your understanding of what’s important in this role. Priorities can vary depending on the museum, but you should be able to identify at least two or three things that are essential to this position and how they relate to the goals of the organization.

Example: “My first priority would be to make sure visitors have an enjoyable experience. I know that museums often have many exhibits and pieces of art, so it can be difficult to see everything in one visit. My goal would be to help visitors find their interests and direct them to areas where they can learn more about those topics. Another priority would be to ensure all guests follow safety procedures. This includes making sure everyone stays behind barriers when appropriate and follows any other rules set by the museum.”

What would you do if you noticed a visitor looking confused or upset?

Interviewers ask this question to see how you handle challenging situations. They want to know that you can help visitors and keep them safe. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to assess the situation and resolve it.

Example: “If I noticed a visitor looking confused or upset, I would approach them and ask if they have any questions. If not, I would try to determine why they look upset or uncomfortable. For example, maybe they are lost in the museum or don’t like the exhibit they’re at. I would then do my best to help them find their way or change exhibits. If they need more assistance, I would call for security or another staff member to assist.”

How well do you handle criticism?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your ability to handle constructive criticism. Museum guides often receive feedback from visitors, and it’s important that they can use the information to improve their performance. In your answer, explain how you respond to negative feedback and what steps you take to improve your skills or knowledge.

Example: “I’ve worked in a museum setting for several years now, so I’m used to receiving feedback from visitors. If someone has a complaint about my tour, I always make sure to listen carefully and thank them for sharing their thoughts. Then, I try to learn as much as I can about what they’re looking for in a guide. For example, if someone is upset because we don’t have an exhibit on dinosaurs, I’ll look into ways we could add one to our collection.”

Do you have any questions for me?

Interviewers often ask this question to see if you have any questions about the position or their museum. They want to know that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the job. When preparing for an interview, make a list of questions you might have. Try to pick ones that show you’re passionate about the role and curious about the company.

Example: “I do have one question. I noticed on your website that there is a new exhibit opening soon. Can you tell me more about it? I’m really excited to hear what’s coming up at the museum.”

When was the last time you learned something new?

This question can help interviewers get to know you better and understand your interests. They may ask this question to see if you are open to learning new things, especially about the museum they work for. You can answer this question by talking about a recent experience of learning something new or what you hope to learn in the future.

Example: “I recently learned how to make my own natural cleaning products at home. I have always been interested in making my own household items, so I started researching different recipes online. I found one that was easy to follow and made it myself. It’s nice knowing exactly what is going into my cleaning supplies.”

We want to make our visitors feel welcome. How would you go about doing that?

Interviewers ask this question to see how you interact with people. They want to know that you can make visitors feel comfortable and welcome in the museum. Show them that you have experience interacting with a wide range of people. Explain what steps you would take to ensure everyone feels included and welcomed.

Example: “I always greet my guests as they enter the museum. I also introduce myself at the beginning of each tour so they remember who I am. As we walk through the exhibits, I try to include all members of the group. For example, if there is an older person in the group, I will explain things more slowly or repeat myself. This way, everyone feels like they are getting the same level of attention.”

Describe your communication style.

Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills. They want to know how you interact with others and whether or not you can communicate effectively in a group setting. When answering, think of a time when you had to give a presentation or talk to a large group of people. Explain what type of communication style you used and the results you achieved.

Example: “I have always been passionate about history, so I volunteered at my local museum as a tour guide for several years. During that time, I gave many tours to groups of all sizes. I learned that it’s important to speak clearly and loudly enough for everyone to hear me. I also learned that it’s helpful to use visual aids like posters and models to help explain concepts better.”

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you feel you can contribute to their team. Before your interview, make a list of all the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this role. Focus on highlighting your soft skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

Example: “I am passionate about art and history, which is why I chose to major in art history in college. Throughout my studies, I learned how to communicate complex ideas in simple ways so others could understand them. This skill has helped me become a better public speaker and communicator overall. In addition, I have experience working with large groups of people, which makes me well-suited for this position.”

Which museums do you admire the most?

This question can help interviewers understand your knowledge of the museum industry and how you view different institutions. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention museums that have inspired you or helped you develop as a guide.

Example: “I admire the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City because of its vast collection of art from around the world. I also appreciate the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. for its dedication to preserving American art. These two museums are my favorites because they both offer such unique experiences with their collections.”

What do you think is the most important skill for a museum guide to have?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you have the skills and abilities needed for this role. Think about what skills you possess that would make you a good fit for this position, such as excellent communication skills or an ability to work with diverse groups of people.

Example: “I think one of the most important skills for a museum guide is patience. I know that many visitors are excited to see the exhibits, but they may not be able to get through them as quickly as they’d like. It’s my job to keep everyone informed while also making sure they don’t rush through the tour. Patience is also helpful when working with children who might need more time to look at certain pieces.”

How often would you update your knowledge of the exhibits and artifacts on display?

This question can help interviewers understand how much you enjoy learning and growing as a guide. They may also want to know if you’re willing to take on additional responsibilities, such as researching new exhibits or helping with the organization’s social media accounts.

Example: “I love learning about history and culture, so I would be happy to do some research for my role as a museum guide. In fact, I already have an interest in this particular institution, which is why I applied here. I’d like to learn more about the artifacts that are currently on display and any upcoming exhibits.”

There is a new exhibit that hasn’t been covered in your training. How would you handle this situation?

Interviewers ask this question to see how you would handle a situation that is out of the ordinary. They want to know if you can think on your feet and use your training to guide visitors through an exhibit they haven’t seen before. In your answer, explain that you will do research on the exhibit as quickly as possible so you can provide accurate information to guests.

Example: “I have been in this position before at my previous job. I was leading a tour when there was a new exhibit that hadn’t been covered in our training yet. I asked one of my colleagues who had already gone through the training about the exhibit. She told me what she knew, and I researched the rest online. I then used my knowledge of the museum and my colleague’s information to lead the group through the exhibit.”