How to Become a Funeral Attendant
Funeral services require an unusual blend of science, art, and counseling skills. A funeral attendant counsels the bereaved, helps them arrange funeral ceremonies, files death certificates and directs the logistics of a large gathering of people at a difficult time. There are a few different paths that you can take if you want to become a funeral attendant.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Consider a specialized school in funeral services. A quick search on the internet will give you quite a few options as far as schools and locations are concerned (see Resources below). Most high-end community colleges have great programs.
-
2
Start in a different field. Embalming is one field for a beginner. You then can move up to funeral attendant. This specialization will also help in familiarizing yourself with the daily workings of a funeral home.
-
-
3
Keep a good driving record. Not only is it a good thing socially to be a good driver, but some of your responsibilities as a funeral attendant will require you to drive. This includes driving mortuary vans, hearses and passenger vehicles.
-
4
Be flexible. To become a funeral attendant you will be asked to work nights and weekends. This means you will have to have a pliable schedule to meet the jobs demands.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Acquire an attention to detail. The job will also require that you be organized with your time. Among the duties required of a funeral attendant, you will need to arrange flowers, clean parlors and assist in preparing the body.
Have a good bedside manner. In a funeral home, you will need to be professional and courteous to mourners. This will require tact and sympathy.
Be a good communicator. In order to talk to people in a time of grief, you will need to have the communication skills to handle tough conversations with the bereaved.
