How to Craft an Outstanding Hospitality CV
If your goal is to compose a CV that ensures success in securing a hospitality job, this guide is tailored for you. In the hospitality sector, companies prioritise three crucial elements: customer service, customer service, and, once again, customer service. Given that these establishments build their reputation on how they cater to their clientele, hospitality positions demand a unique skill set distinct from typical office roles.
Due to the often specialized nature of these positions, it is advisable to create two CVs: a general one for the industry and another tailored specifically to the role you are seeking.
What Employers Seek:
Employers are in search of individuals capable of enhancing their business through exceptional service and unwavering commitment. The expectation is to adeptly engage with a diverse range of customers and navigate various unforeseen situations comfortably. Many hospitality roles will also require physical stamina, as being on one’s feet for extended periods is common.
Therefore, employers are on the lookout for candidates who exhibit:
- A willingness to serve others
- Politeness and friendliness
- Clean and neat appearance
- Team player mentality
- Good health and fitness
- The ability to thrive under pressure
- Flexibility in working patterns
For more senior roles, like that of a hotel manager, additional expectations include:
- Team management
- Demonstrating commercial acumen through promotions and marketing campaigns
- Recruiting and training staff
- Managing and reporting budgets and figures
Crafting Your CV:
Identify the specific skills the employer is seeking. For example, front-of-house staff, such as concierges and restaurant workers, should emphasize customer service skills, while back-of-house workers should highlight proficiency in cooking, cleaning, and organizing. Maintain a list of your skills for reference when compiling your CV.
Personal Details:
Include your correct address, telephone, and email details. Omit your date of birth, nationality, ethnic origins, and photos.
Personal Statement:
Focus on what you can offer the company, referencing the job advert or description to highlight relevant skills and experience. Consider unconventional experiences, such as voluntary work or community projects, that may have imparted valuable transferable skills.
Skills Overview:
This is a crucial section. Address how your experience aligns with the employer’s needs, showcase any awards or recognition, and provide relevant statistics or figures demonstrating your achievements.
Career History:
Emphasize the aspects of your career history most pertinent to the position you’re applying for. Tailor your discussion to showcase relevant skills and experiences.
Education and Training:
Detail academic qualifications and any relevant training, such as food safety or health and safety courses.
Volunteer and Charity Work:
Highlight experience in charity campaigns, demonstrating commitment and responsibility. Be truthful about your experiences.
Additional Skills and Experience:
Include any other relevant skills, like language proficiency or specific talents, linking them back to the job you’re applying for.
Personal Attributes:
Optional but recommended for those with limited relevant experience. Include attributes such as being well-presented, a confident communicator, responsible, reliable, honest, and a fast learner.
References:
Conclude with a simple ‘references available on request.’ Choose referees knowledgeable about your skills and inform them of the job you’re applying for, providing a copy of the job description if possible.
