If you can work in hospitality, then you most probably can work anywhere else. This industry is one of the most challenging, yet the most rewarding. Wouldn’t you feel your best receiving satisfying feedback directly from customers and finding ample opportunities for career progression? Honing the right skillset is imperative to thriving in this field and avoiding burnout.
Do you believe you’ve got what it takes? Check out the following 7 must-have skills to find your answer.
Communication
One of the most significant aspects of working in hospitality is the ability to communicate effectively.This involves interacting with both customers and staff to ensure needs are fulfilled and nothing is overlooked. What you say or do must constantly radiate positive and constructive messages that keep people coming back for more and employees operating productively together. Mastering this skill allows you to identify what a customer requires, often before they even ask.
Multitasking
One thing you’ve got to know: not a day is similar to another in this industry. You might be serving food and beverages at times, maintaining an ever-growing list of orders at others, or even communicating with clients constantly. Therefore, as a staff member, you should be able to manage large numbers of clients and set each one of them as a priority, all while making sure their demands are fulfilled.
Flexibility
Operating in the field of hospitality means you’ll always have to deal with unexpected situations or unanticipated adjustments. You will need to be flexible with your personal plans to be able to work under long and tough schedules, whether on regular days or during holidays as well. However, this usually doesn’t go unnoticed. Most employers reward their staff with bonuses or additional vacation days at some point. Not to forget that this skill is essential to practise not only internally, but when dealing with customers as well. Demands might change by the minute and providing them with the best support is the ultimate goal.
Detail Oriented
Paying attention to the tiniest detail is crucial in hospitality since everything is assessed by clients. They always set the bar high and it’s on you as a staff member, to meet their expectations. Therefore, there’s a huge responsibility that lies in keeping service running smoothly and customers satisfied with the atmosphere. This implies you'll need to be on the lookout in case an order is running late, a foggy glass has to be cleaned, items are missing or incorrectly placed, and so on.
Cultural Awareness
Being in the hospitality industry means encountering customers and staff from various backgrounds daily, each with their personal values, beliefs, personalities, races, etc. Learning about these differences and embracing them ensures everyone feels at ease in the work environment, leading to exceptional customer service; thus, an established and reputable image for the company. Being open to all encounters is also a must to make people feel at ease in your space and for your personal growth.
Problem Solving
Customer concerns and difficulties are part of a hospitality staff member’s everyday work. Since the industry is mainly focused on clients, it is essential to master the skill of being a quick thinker and problem solver. Once acquired, you will not only be able to become much more time-efficient, but you will also please customers who are on the lookout for a relaxing and satisfactory experience. Don’t forget to follow up with them whenever their issue has been fixed, this will differentiate you and make you stand out from the rest of your competitors.
Positivity
Being positive and cheerful at all times while practising your job is essential in the hospitality industry. People expect to be treated in the most welcoming and respectful manner at all times, regardless of your personal or internal challenges. Maintaining this attitude is one of the most important factors that play a role in defining the success of a company, and it’s on employees to build this distinguished image. Positivity not only satisfies clients but also ensures a more enjoyable workspace and a closer bond between teams.