We interview our own staffing coordinator and provide you with key tips and advice for what staffing coordinators and recruiters look for when hiring staff. 

How did you get into the industry?
I entered the industry a little over 10 years ago while I was living in San Jose, CA. I had some hostess, serving, and bartending experience from a few restaurants/lounges I worked at in the area and I started noticing promotional staff come in and set up for 2-3 hour sampling events. It intrigued me because it looked like so much fun! I began asking questions and networking which lead to a position working with a local spirits company based in San Francisco as their South Bay Ambassador. I learned very quickly what went into setting up events. I began coordinating with local distributors, creating rapport with management at various locations, to hiring teams. I then transitioned into working more trade shows and conventions in Silicon Valley, which we mainly tech-based. Working different avenues within the industry allowed me to understand people a lot more, and altered my engagement in various environments. Since then, I have had many roles in this industry, and believe my experience has given me insight of the externalities that come along within the many roles we have in this type of work.

What do you like most about your job?
I love meeting new people! Since I have been in the industry for at least a decade I’ve had the opportunity to hone in on my communication skills and attention to detail. I know what to look for when someone is speaking to me.I really enjoy connecting with others and giving them an opportunity to advance in the industry. 

Do you have recommendations on what a brand ambassador resume should look like?
Like most resumes, we would like to see a background with a similar skill set for the job you are applying to. Not everyone may have the same starting point but a background in hospitality, retail, and/or public communications are related industries that require you to be an effective communicator. Backwoods Promotions specifically looks to hire staff members that have experience in motorsports, automotive, or engage in an outdoor lifestyle. However, if we believe you possess the skills to adequately demonstrate a product or engage an audience then we would still consider you as a strong candidate to add to our roster.

I believe interviewing candidates for a position is not solely based upon their resume but how they represent themselves. Are they speaking clearly? Are they making eye contact? Did they set up a quiet space so a professional interview can be conducted? I take all of these scenarios into account.

What skills are most important to have as a brand ambassador?
Outgoing, flexible, driven, and of course responsible, just to name a few. Yet, there are many different skills that promotional staff should possess. High energy must be maintained from the beginning of a show to the end. When you promote what you love it is very easy to maintain this enthusiasm. That's why we enjoy hiring staff that have a background in our niche.

What advice would you give someone before their interview?
Be prepared! I can’t emphasize this enough. It takes time from both of our schedules to sit and connect through an interview. Speaking “face to face” and getting to know each other creates mutual value and respect.

  • Set up in a designated area where you will not be disturbed
  • Be on time
  • Make sure your internet connection is good to go
  • Look presentable and professional 
  • Any questions you have about the job are always welcome (and encouraged!)

Can being a brand ambassador / promo model lead to other careers?
Absolutely! Many individuals may enter this industry as a side hustle while in college or alongside their current career and find out how much they love it. Others may begin their journey as a brand ambassador to gain exposure in marketing and sales. Depending on what your personal goal is, there is definitely room for advancement. I am a great example of that! I started out working within different avenues of the industry, that eventually led team lead roles, to field market management positions, and now I am a Staffing Coordinator for a company I love.

What should a potential new-hire do after an interview?
At the close of our interview, we will usually ask for 2-3 references that can speak on your professional behalf. It is encouraged to email these references immediately after our interview, as it will help expedite the potential new-hire process. 

Also, after any interview, a thoughtful email/personal note thanking the interviewee for his/her time shows professionalism and appreciation. I would recommend doing this after finishing an interview for any industry.


Written by: Stephanie M., Staffing Coordinator

Interested in joining the Backwoods Promo Team? Click Here!