Orientation to a Career in the Hospitality Industry

"Success is a journey, not a destination!"
(Author Unknown)

"It is an industry you either love or hate."

We thought it might be helpful, as you begin your journey toward success, in this industry, if you start by reviewing some traditional (unwritten) industry career standards. While the criteria outlined below may not always apply, you will find it has always been considered "standard operating procedure" by almost all of the professionals who have achieved outstanding success in our industry.

It is said that the hospitality industry is the oldest industry in the world. Inn Keeping proceeded biblical days. It is an industry you either love or hate. If you truly love it and put everything you have into it, it will reward you with benefits you can’t find in any other industry. You will have new challenges every day, you will never find time to be bored, you will constantly be meeting new people, each day you will discover new ways to help people enjoy themselves, you will learn about, and master, production, merchandising (beautiful displays) cost control, safety and sanitation, public relations, finance, marketing and the list goes on. Most of all, you will be surrounded by other professionals that love what they are doing as much as you do.

Because of its growth and the commensurate need for dedicated personnel your career will go as far and as fast as you want it to, from wait staff or cook, to Chef, CEO or owner. This is the only industry that offers such a direct fast tract to success. The brass ring is there if you are equipped and desire to "take this journey toward success" grab it

What will be expected of you?

Work shifts at all times of the day/week as needed
To be a creative problem solver
To be on call twenty-four/seven
To be called upon to fill in where ever needed
To operate with impeccable skills and follow through
To take charge and be held accountable
To develop and maintain strong computer skills
To control all aspects of costs
To create and sustain outstanding sales through marketing and professional service
To produce and sustain an appropriate profit
To insure repeat business is a reality not a vision
To always be upbeat and outgoing (even when you don’t feel that way)
To always lead by example never reluctant to jump in and help, no matter the job
To hold your staff to the same high standards you personally maintain

What personal strengths and tools will you need?

Strong work ethics
Truly like and care about people
A desire to serve (to make others time more enjoyable)
Possess an open mind and great flexibility
Possess outstanding powers of observation
Good organizational skills and impeccable follow through
Good communicator
Capable of making quick, prudent and effective decisions
Desire (and the instincts) to do "what ever is needed" to get the job done (no room for "Pre-Madonnas" in our industry)
Hold your career/job ahead of your personal pleasure. (Do not confuse this with your family’s welfare)
Outstanding personal hygiene and grooming (including "dressing for success")
Outstanding motivational skills
Must enjoy holding people accountable and helping them develop professionally

I hope you are anxious to begin "The Journey toward Success" in the wonderful world of hospitality. The industry is looking forward to providing you with the initial direction and help in getting you started in your career. The industry will provide the opportunity and tools for you growth. It will be up to you to use them to your advantage. A professional attitude and hard work will assist you, immeasurably, in adding to your industry knowledge and personal strengths. These two personal attributes will be the driving force behind your success. They will clearly enhance your career opportunities. Your operation will continue to increase in sales and be more profitable as you become a stronger and more professional manager. Welcome to the reality of our beloved industry.

Good luck in your Journey to a wonderful career and success in the hospitality industry.

If you are seeking professional assistance, please see our web page at Marshall & Associates - e-mail us at marsconsul@aol.com or by using the no obligation contact form

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