The hospitality industry is vast, and there are potential career options for nearly everyone. However, one does not simply become a hotel manager from the start. Hospitality is an industry that values commitment and often promotes internally. Most in managerial positions started their career somewhere lower on the ladder and worked their way up. So, if you hope to achieve one of these upper-level roles in the future, now is the time to snag your first job in hospitality.
Why Choose Hospitality?
Whether or not you intend to make a career of it, the skills and experience you can gain from an entry-level role in the industry carry much value in any field of work. Customer service is such an essential part of any hospitality role, so developing a knack for communication early on is key. Those communication skills can easily be transferred to other industries as you continue your career. Hospitality also teaches adaptability – when you can pivot quickly and make sound decisions on the fly, you are guaranteed to be an asset anywhere you work.
Beyond the skills developed by working in hospitality, there are plenty of other benefits. The people you interact with daily, between customers and coworkers, are diverse. You will be exposed to different cultures and personalities all the time.
Overall, the biggest benefit of getting your first job in hospitality is the growth potential. Many who begin as housekeepers or office administrators eventually move up into management positions as they gain skills and expertise over time.
Searching for your First Role
Entry-level hospitality positions are continuously in high demand. You can easily access information regarding open roles on job boards for specific companies in your area or on larger sites such as Indeed and Monster. Most of these sites allow you to easily filter results based on location, experience level, and compensation.
Before applying for a specific role, be sure to look at job responsibilities and skills needed to make sure those align with your strengths and preferences. If you notice a trend of key skills missing from your arsenal, consider making efforts to polish those skills in other ways. For example, most hospitality roles require cooperation and the ability to work as a team. Consider volunteer opportunities in your community that might allow you to build those skills to be more prepared when applying for a job.
The biggest thing here is remembering this industry is a land of growth. Companies tend to promote from within – while you may not enter into the industry in your dream role, there are plenty of ways to rise as you pick up skills and prove yourself valuable.
Standing Out in the Application Process
So you have found the perfect role for you – now what? It is time to submit an application that will make you stand out from other candidates. Depending on how to apply, you may have the opportunity to submit a resume and/or cover letter. If you’ve already created a resume, consider having someone in the industry review it before submitting it. If you don’t have access to someone, try a free resume review to make sure it’s in top shape. If you need to start from scratch, there are loads of resources that can guide you. A good rule of thumb is to focus on creating a resume that is:
- Grammatically correct – taking the time to proofread your resume and eliminate grammar and spelling mistakes is crucial.
- Concise – companies have likely received a high number of applications. Keeping your resume to a page or two ensures that they take the time to read yours.
- Highlights your qualifications – you want to clearly articulate your strengths and relevant experience for the desired role.
When it comes to interviewing for a position in hospitality, think of it as an audition. Remember, this is an industry that relies on communication and values those with enthusiasm. Candidates need to express their desire to become an asset to the organization and to carry their values throughout their days. Before an interview, spend a few minutes looking into the mission or goals of the organization (these are often easily found on their website). Make it a point to express how you plan to help them achieve these during your interview. Companies value the effort, and this helps show you are aligned with them and will be a strong representation of the organization daily.
Opportunities Await
We are constantly looking to fill a variety of industry roles, from administrative roles to bartenders, hosts, housekeepers, and beyond. Whether you are looking for your first job in the industry or have years of experience under your belt, we’ve likely got a role for you. Browse our updated list of current openings and get started on your new journey today!