The Main Skills an Employer is Looking for in the Hospitality Industry
The hospitality industry is a consistent form of employment which is hugely varied. Whether you chose to work in catering, hotels, cruises, beverages, nightlife, or events, there are so many different roles on offer, with many choosing to stay working in the sector long term and work their way up the ladder to higher-paid roles. It is a great industry for younger people to break into the employment and professional world. While many of the positions are entry-level, others do demand many skills and offer both excellent and prestige benefits. Many positions in the top companies can be competitive even in growing industries, so what can you do to make yourself stand out from the other candidates? In order to be successful, there is a core set of skills you will need that are necessary to impress the employer for employment in the hospitality industry. We have compiled a list of the main skills that an employer would be looking for.
Communication Skills
Excellent communication skills are strongly needed especially in the hospitality and tourism industry. Getting further into the workforce means being able to communicate well with everyone around you. Nearly all problems that occur in the workplace are solved with proper communication. Each day you could be dealing with a variety of age groups, backgrounds, temperaments, and nationalities so it is essential that you can speak both clearly and understandable, just remember you are representing your employer’s brand and company. You can show your skills off in an interview by practicing asking questions, listening, and even sending a thank you note after the interview.
Time Management & Punctuality
Being efficient and meeting deadlines is very important in any work industry. Time management and be punctual at work are critical skills for any professional worker to develop. To any employer, you will stand out as a trustworthy and reliable person, one who is dependable and can be relied on to arrive at work on time. Always arrive at an interview early as running behind schedule is never a good look to any employer.
Multitasking
There are many reasons why the hospitality sector can be difficult to work in as its almost always hectic. Many employees must handle multiple tasks in one day. For example, on a typical day for a manager role, they might have to ring a company about a vacuum, deal with a guest that has made a complaint, fill out paperwork, keep a smile on guest faces, and all of this and more may have to be done in one afternoon. Many employers want to know can if you handle multiple tasks in one day, manage your time effectively, while also handling the pressure of the workload when things may get chaotic.
Work as part of a team
No career path comes exempt from being able to work as part of a team. This is mandatory. Every role in a company requires you to connect with others around you, so whether that is in a busy kitchen or working in a bar, you will need to be able to work as part of a team especially during busy periods.
Show your initiative
Employers nearly always look for someone who is hardworking and takes their own initiative to find new ways to help the company. A great employee doesn’t wait around to be assigned tasks by their boss, they show their initiative and self-motivation to improve the company and the current position they are in. Having a strong work ethic is a valuable factor to any employer. You can share this with any employer in an interview and they will be impressed.
Attention to Detail
It is always the little things that get your career off to a great start but it also makes a guest experience extraordinary. It won’t make or break your hospitality career but it will help you along the way. Whether it is making sure the flowers are fresh, or checking that all staff is wearing clean uniforms, everything must be attended to and all the little things will make a huge difference. Attention to detail skills will also help you to give a guest a more positive experience.
Language Skills
Although language skills are not too necessary, it is a bonus in the hospitality field. It will allow you to communicate with a wide range of different cultures and people. Your use of languages will help you on a day to day basis. Language skills are a plus in any industry, so why not consider taking a class.
Computer Skills
In today’s world with modern technology, the use of computers is essential and it also makes you stand out from the crowd in an interview. Understanding the various types of software and having excellent computer skills is important. You should highlight this on your CV that you are literate in the use of software and computers, this will surely impress any employer.
Customer Service
Above anything else, customer service is vital in the hospitality industry. You must have the ability to meet any customers expectations no matter what role you are in. Whether you are serving drinks in a bar or taking on the role as general manager of a hotel, it is your job to make sure all customers are having a great time and that they gain a positive experience every time. Customer service is all about being proactive and positive. Even if you have to deal with a difficult guest, it is important to remain professional, polite, and to smile. You must go that extra mile for every guest. Just remember, the more positive experience one has, the more likely you are to receive good feedback and maybe some good tips too.
Flexibility
In the hospitality industry, there can be unusual hours or longer hours than other basic jobs. You must be able to show that you are flexible and adaptable even if you get called in at the last minute. Any employer will appreciate that you are enthusiastic about any unique opportunities and will respond to the company’s needs.