Becoming a Plaid at Disneyland, also known as a VIP tour guide or Guest Relations cast member, is a prestigious role that many Disney enthusiasts aspire to. Not only do Plaids get to wear the iconic plaid vest, but they also get to interact with guests from all over the world, provide insider knowledge about the park, and ensure that guests have a memorable experience. Here’s an in-depth guide on how to become a Plaid at Disneyland.
To become a Plaid at Disneyland, also known as a VIP tour guide, you first need to gain at least a year of experience working for Disney, often starting in a customer service role. After proving your knowledge of Disney and your customer interaction skills, you can apply for VIP tour guide positions on the Disney Careers website. If selected, you’ll undergo extensive training. It’s important to have excellent communication skills, a friendly personality, strong knowledge of Disney parks, and the ability to provide top-notch customer service.
What is a Plaid at Disneyland?
A Plaid at Disneyland is a cast member who wears a distinctive plaid vest as part of their uniform. They are considered ambassadors of the park and are known for their exceptional knowledge of Disneyland and their ability to provide a top-notch experience for guests. Plaids work in various roles, including as tour guides, concierges, and customer service representatives, providing private tours and special services to guests.
Job Responsibilities of a Plaid
As a Plaid, your role will be to:
- Guide VIP tours: Plaids interact with some of Disney’s most discerning customers, including celebrities and guests who have paid a hefty fee for a VIP experience.
- Lead guided tours: In addition to VIP tours, Plaids also lead regularly scheduled tours.
- Sell tickets: Plaids may be involved in selling tickets to guests.
- Exchange foreign currency: They may assist guests with exchanging foreign currency.
- Assist guests with disabilities: Plaids help guests with disabilities navigate the park and access attractions.
How to Become a Plaid at Disneyland
Becoming a Plaid at Disneyland involves a competitive process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a Plaid:
- Work for Disney: You need at least a year of experience working for Disney. Many Plaids start their career at the front counter at Town Hall, where they answer customer questions.
- Performance evaluation: Your performance, customer interaction skills, and Disney knowledge will be rigorously evaluated.
- Rise through the ranks: If you demonstrate the qualities of an ambassador, you may be promoted to higher levels of Plaid roles.
- Apply for VIP tour guide positions: Visit the Disney Careers website and search for available VIP tour guide positions.
- Training: Once selected, you will undergo a rigorous training process to become a VIP tour guide.
Qualifications to Become a Plaid
To become a Plaid, you need to have:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- A friendly and outgoing personality
- Strong knowledge of Disney parks and attractions
- The ability to provide excellent customer service
- A willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays
- A clean background check and drug test
Insider Tips for Aspiring Plaids
- Gain experience: Start by working in other roles within the park and learn as much as you can about the company.
- Develop customer service skills: Plaids are trusted by Disney to interact with high-profile guests and provide exceptional service.
- Acquire knowledge about Disneyland: Familiarize yourself with every aspect of Disneyland and stay updated on any changes or new additions.
- Participate in the Disney College Program: This program offers valuable experience and networking opportunities within the company.
- Network with current and former Plaids: Connect with people who have worked or are currently working as Plaids to gain insights into the role.
Becoming a Plaid at Disneyland is a rewarding and prestigious role that requires dedication, excellent customer service skills, and extensive knowledge of the park. With patience, persistence, and the right approach, you can achieve your dream of becoming a Plaid at Disneyland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Disney College Program?
The Disney College Program is a semester-long paid internship at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida or the Disneyland Resort in California. Students gain valuable on-the-job experience, network with professionals, take part in personal and career development classes, and live in company-sponsored housing with other students from around the globe.
How long is the training process to become a Plaid?
The training process to become a Plaid typically lasts several weeks. It includes classroom training, shadowing experienced tour guides, and passing written and verbal exams about Disneyland history and operations.
What is the average salary for a Plaid at Disneyland?
The salary for a Plaid at Disneyland can vary depending on experience and the specific role. However, according to Glassdoor, the average salary for a VIP tour guide at Disneyland is approximately $14 per hour.
Is there a specific age requirement to become a Plaid?
To become a Plaid, you must be at least 18 years old, as it is a requirement for most jobs at Disneyland.
Do Plaids get any special benefits or perks?
Yes, Plaids receive several benefits including admission to Disney parks, discounts on merchandise and food, and access to exclusive events. The specific benefits can vary depending on the employee’s length of service and role.
