museums&MORE Winter 2016

Justina Doyle

Manager of Education and Events Justina Doyle
International Museum of Surgical Science
Chicago

Justina Doyle has a master’s degree in arts management, but she also cites her experience as a waitress as helping to train her to anticipate customers’ needs.

MM: What is your background?

JD: I got my undergraduate degree in music business and a graduate degree in arts management. Both degrees had elements of business and I learned a lot about how important it is to anticipate visitor needs. I also have experience waitressing, so I’m very customer-service conscious.

MM: What are the store’s top sellers?

JD: Some of our gift shop’s best sellers are I Heart Surgery” buttons and “I Lobe You Magnets.” Visitors also enjoy our collection of Madame Talbot posters, which are all hand-drawn and cover topics found in the museum, such as prosthetics, cures for what ails you, poison and more.

MM: What is the best business tip you’ve received?

JD: Don’t be afraid to take risks. Always try new things, if they work great, if they don’t, reevaluate and learn from your mistakes.

MM: What gives you gratification?

JD: I stay passionate about what I do by drawing from visitor energy. Every time someone says, “I love those skull chocolates,” or “The I Lobe You Magnets are great,” I feel a real sense of accomplishment.