Funeral Counselor
そうぎそうだんいん
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Service Occupations
- Middle : Other Service Occupations
- Minor : Funeral Directors and Cremation Workers
Summary
A profession that collaborates with bereaved families to provide comprehensive support for funerals, including consulting on and proposing funeral plans, arrangements, and proceedings.
Description
Funeral counselors receive consultations from bereaved families, propose funeral plans, and handle a wide range of practical tasks such as venue selection, site setup, arranging temples and pastors, catering and floral offerings, and crematorium reservations. They also prepare cost estimates, assist with administrative procedures (such as helping submit death certificates), and support emceeing the ceremony, thereby alleviating the mental and procedural burdens on the bereaved family. While accommodating diverse religions and customs, they support optimal rituals to commemorate the deceased.
Future Outlook
While steady demand will be maintained due to aging population and increasing death rates, there is growing demand for cost-conscious funeral plans with the rise of direct cremations and family funerals. Development of new services like online funerals will be key moving forward.
Personality Traits
Attentive and considerate / Calm and composed / Compassionate / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Eligible for full-time employment / Night and early morning shifts / Overtime possible / Part-time possible / Shift work
Career Path
Funeral Staff → Funeral Counselor → Funeral Director → Sales Manager → Department Manager
Required Skills
Administrative Procedures / Budget Management / Customer Service Skills / Funeral Manners and Etiquette Knowledge / Venue Operations
Recommended Skills
Crisis Management / Online Funeral Support / Psychological Care / Religious Ritual Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Flexible adaptation to diverse religions and regional customs. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because minor arrangement errors can affect the ceremony proceedings. |
| Communication Skills | Dialogue with bereaved families and building trust are crucial. |
| Planning & Organization | The ability to coordinate multiple vendors and schedules is essential. |
| Problem Solving | Quick response to unexpected issues is necessary. |
| Stress Tolerance | Calm handling of bereaved families' emotional situations. |
Related Qualifications
- Funeral Director Skills Certification Level 1
- Funeral Director Skills Certification Level 2
Aliases
- Funeral Advisor
- Funeral Planner
Related Jobs
- Cremation Staff
- Encoffiner
- Funeral Director