How to get started as a service employee in the hotel industry
Your career start as a waiter
Do you want to enter the hotel industry and are considering whether the service sector suits you? Good decision! Because the job as a service employee is varied, lively and offers great opportunities for your career. Whether at breakfast, at the hotel bar or in fine dining - you make sure that guests feel comfortable. In this article, we'll show you what's important, how to get started and what development opportunities you have.
What does a service employee do in a hotel?
As a service employee, you take care of the guests - friendly, attentive and organized. Your workplace? The restaurant, the hotel bar, the breakfast buffet or the banquet area. You take orders, serve food and drinks, clear up and are the first point of contact for requests or questions.
In addition, there are often tasks such as setting the tables, cashiering or preparing events.
The important thing is that you work in a team, have a lot of contact with guests and are always on the move.
These qualities will help you in your day-to-day service work
You don't need superpowers - but a few qualities will help you to become really good at service:
- Friendliness : A smile opens doors - especially in the hotel industry.
- Team spirit: You work hand in hand with the kitchen, reception and co.
- Resilience : When things get stressful, you keep an overview.
- Organizational talent: You remember orders and stay attentive.
- Good communication skills: You enjoy talking to people - and in several languages.
We have summarized helpful tricks for service professionals in our magazine article. Curious? Then read it now!
How to get started as a service employee
How can you prepare for your start as a waiter? Below you will find some essential to-dos.
1. Obtain information
Before you decide on this profession, find out the most important information about working hours, salary, training and further education opportunities and read testimonials from people who already work in service. On our website, you will find all the information mentioned above and much more clearly summarized.
2. Internship or temporary job: get off to a relaxed start
You want to try it out first? Great idea! Many hotels are looking for temporary staff or offer taster internships. This allows you to get to know the processes and find out whether you like the service.
3. Training or lateral entry: both are possible
You can start as a career changer or do an apprenticeship - e.g. as a restaurant specialist or hotel and catering assistant. You also have opportunities as a waiter/waitress without training if you are motivated and want to learn. Many companies will support you with training and courses.
4. Learn from your colleagues
Especially at the beginning, it is important to keep an open mind and stay active. Don't wait for someone to explain something to you: Ask questions, listen and observe experienced colleagues and superiors. This is how you learn the most - and quickly build trust in the team.
Promotion opportunities in service
Want to carry more than just trays? No problem! In Service, you can develop step by step.
Possible positions:
- Chef de Rang: You manage your own service area in the restaurant.
- Bar manager: You are responsible for the running of the hotel bar.
- Restaurant manager: You organize the entire restaurant operation.
- F& B Management: You plan the hotel's gastronomic offer.
Further training, vocational schools and courses will help you. And who knows: you might soon be working in upscale hotel gastronomy or gaining experience abroad.
Service: Take off as a waiter with heart and attitude
As a service employee, you are a host, organizational talent and problem solver all rolled into one. You don't need a diploma - but you do need the will to get stuck in, remain friendly and learn something new every day. Then many doors will be open to you in the hotel industry. Get an overview of potential employers and current job vacancies right now!
