Exhibition host

What does an exhibition host do? – Tasks and work environment

An exhibition host primarily works with welcoming and guiding visitors at museums, art galleries, exhibitions, and other cultural events. The tasks include providing information about the exhibition, answering questions, supervising the premises, and ensuring visitors have a positive and safe experience. It often involves handling simple administrative tasks, receiving bookings, and sometimes conducting guided tours for groups. The work environment is social and outward-facing, with significant variation depending on the organization's focus and size. Many exhibition hosts work shifts, including weekends and evenings, to cover opening hours when most visitors come.

Salary development over time

The salary for exhibition hosts has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,600 SEK per month, which increased to 29 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total wage increase of about 7% over three years, corresponding to an average annual increase of just over 3%. This positive trend reflects a general wage development in the service and culture sectors, where demand for qualified staff has been stable but competition for positions can be high. Salaries are also influenced by the employer's size, geographic location, and the educational level of employees. Despite some wage increases, the profession still has relatively small differences between men's and women's salaries.

Exhibition host salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,400 SEK/month (men), 28,000 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 33,900 SEK/month (men), 33,600 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage (average): 184 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 30 700 SEK (102% of men's 30 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and sector, with somewhat higher salaries in larger cities and private organizations.

Education and qualifications

To work as an exhibition host, no specific higher education is usually required, but employers prefer applicants with a high school education and an interest in art, culture, or history. Practical experience in service professions or working with people is advantageous. Some employers may offer internal training or introduction to ensure the host has the right knowledge about the exhibition content and safety routines.

• High school education: Most common requirement, often with a focus on culture, tourism, or service
• Courses in communication or cultural studies: Advantageous for understanding visitor needs
• Internship or traineeship: Many employers offer introductory periods or internships
• Language skills: Additional language skills, especially English, are often an advantage
• Service experience: Previous work in customer service or reception is appreciated

Common benefits and compensations

Exhibition hosts often have access to benefits such as evening and weekend overtime pay, wellness allowances, and sometimes discounted or free entry to cultural institutions. Some employers also offer further training in the field and opportunities for skill development through internal courses or site visits.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an exhibition host is relatively high, especially in major cities and well-known institutions. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, the profession is characterized by an oversupply of applicants and limited opportunities for work, with demand expected to decrease over the next five years. This is due, among other things, to digitalization, changing visitor patterns, and efficiency improvements within the cultural sector. To stand out among applicants, relevant experience and a genuine interest in culture and public service are required. Despite the challenges, there are still good opportunities for those who are flexible, proactive, and open to new working methods.

Tips for those who want to become an exhibition host

To succeed as an exhibition host, it is good to have a strong service mindset and an interest in meeting people from different backgrounds. Being communicative and pedagogical makes it easier when visitors seek information or guidance. Flexibility is important, as working hours often vary and new routines can be introduced depending on the exhibition or season. Showing engagement for art, history, or cultural values adds credibility and is appreciated by both employers and visitors. The ability to handle stressful situations and remain calm even under high pressure is a valuable trait. Last but not least, it is important to be meticulous and responsible, especially when it comes to supervision and safety in exhibition spaces.

Key facts about exhibition hosts

• Salary range: 26,400–33,900 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education is most common
• Work environment: Audience, varied and social environment
• Demand: Limited opportunities, oversupply of applicants
• Job openings: About 758 within the office receptionists' profession

Career paths and future prospects

After several years of experience as an exhibition host, there may be opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, coordinator for public activities, or responsible for tours. Some choose to further their education in museum pedagogy, cultural project management, or administration to broaden their career options within the cultural sector. According to the Employment Service, however, demand for exhibition hosts and office receptionists is expected to decline over five years, and competition for these positions is high. Those who combine experience with further education and language skills can strengthen their position in the job market and open doors to related roles in administration, tourism, or event planning.

Frequently asked questions about exhibition hosts

• What does an exhibition host earn?
  - The average salary is 30 600 SEK per month, with a range between 26,400 and 33,900 SEK.
• Are there differences between women's and men's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 30 700 SEK and men 30 000 SEK, which means women earn 102% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What education is required to become an exhibition host?
  - High school education is most common, preferably with a focus on culture, tourism, or service.
• What is the job market like for exhibition hosts?
  - Opportunities are limited and there is an oversupply of applicants according to the Employment Service. Demand is expected to decrease.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Service orientation, communication skills, flexibility, and responsibility are central qualities.
• What types of employers hire exhibition hosts?
  - Museums, art galleries, cultural centers, and private exhibition organizers are common employers.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - Approximately 758 job openings within the office receptionists' category.