A Lot has happened in the Hospitality Industry over the past few years. A lot of Hospitality Professionals left the industry. Clients are vetting candidates more thoroughly. Prices have increased and several large chains are closing multiple units – I still believe it is the greatest industry on the planet. There are still great opportunities for career and financial growth for the hospitality professionals that take their time, do their due diligence and write the resume that will make the hiring manager want to read it and set up an interview.
Resume Tips
If you’re a Job Seeker:
-Make sure your resume is updated, your dates are correct, and the resume speaks to your career goals
-Not including the month with the years of employment with your jobs could make an 11 month difference in your tenure by anyone who’s reading
-Update reference contact information and status -I usually suggest -2-3 Supervisors and 1-2 subordinates /peers
Interview Tips
A Zoom interview is no different than a face-to-face interview, it’s just one dimensional.
Always:
-Dress accordingly
-Pick an appropriate background
-Make eye contact
-Always conduct your due diligence prior to an interview – Google the company, visit the company’s website, know their mission statement, check out on-line reviews and growth plans
-Visit the restaurant location as a customer before, this will be helpful during the interview
-Bring multiple copies of your resume (at least 3) in a folder, ready to go in case you interview with multiple people
-Post interview: Always send an email or note thanking the interviewer for their time and your interest level in the position -if you are still interested.
Interview Don’ts
In the FIRST interview, don’t:
-Discuss salary (unless the interviewer brings it up first)
-Speak ill of your previous employers. The interviewer will wonder what you may say about their company. It’s the easiest way to not get hired!
-Use colorful language, discuss politics or religion during an interview
This may sound trite, but based on my 25 years of experience, I feel it should be said- Always include relevant education, achievements, special training, software you have used and awards on your resume. They may come up during the interview -you can elaborate!
Remember, interviews are a 2-way street! Ask yourself does the company want you to work for and them and do you want to work for the company -it is a 360 degree interview!