Starting your career as a hospitality manager is exciting and daunting all at the same time. You must be comfortable in your own skin and not be afraid of confrontation. It’s a must that you love what you do; this is paramount.
It's essential that you are always understanding and knowing what it is you don’t want versus what you do want out of any role you may undertake, for the company you may work for.
Knowing your strengths and what your areas of development are is also key. This way you can make the most of your strengths and actively work on your areas of development; when these are established, you can then move on and choose where you would like to work. Never select a job out of desperation because 9 times out of 10 you won’t excel.
Knowledge is power
If you have the opportunity, go to eat and drink both on a busy and not so busy night at the establishment that you seek to manage. I try to observe the staff that I may be leading and supervising. It is a great way to see what’s happening and you can pick up on strengths and weakness, i.e. areas of development that may stand out. Make notes of things you can change or improve.
Learn the companies policies and procedures (follow then and used them). Understanding the politics of the company will help you to navigate and climb the ladder, for those above and beneath you. Be on time (very important) don’t be afraid to share your opinion and ideas (there is no such thing as a bad idea).
Never settle for mediocrity
Do not settle for mediocrity even if the other managers and supervisors you work with do. This will allow you to stand out. Train your staff to do the same and lead by example, but don’t do the all the work yourself - train and then supervise. Delegate the simplest aspects of your job to someone who is keen on learning. But do so with careful supervision.
Take time to socialise with their bosses and other managers and equally get to know the staff you manage but don’t become their friends. Don’t be afraid if you’re not liked - you didn’t join the company to be liked. You joined the company to get a particular job done and done exceptionally. True friendship at work will evolve on its own. When everyone understands what your standards are, they will follow.
Work as well as you can
Keep your word and do not make promises you cannot keep. Take what the staff beneath you says with a pinch of salt, always, always find out for yourself do not be afraid to ask for help from those above you. Whatever is asked of you get it done ASAP (the sooner, the better). Do not put off what you can do it today for tomorrow. It’s sounds cliche but so true.
Set your goals and visualise them, remain positive at all times. Control your rota and staffing levels.
Last but definitely not the least make customer service at the heart of everything we do. This is hospitality at its heart.