The restaurant industry is competitive, and standing out with a strong resume can make all the difference. For those looking to land top hospitality positions, tailoring your resume to showcase relevant skills and experience is essential. In this guide, we’ll go over the must-have elements of a resume in the restaurant business and how our resume service can help you secure your dream job.
Understand What Employers in Hospitality Look For
Hiring managers in the restaurant industry prioritize skills that ensure customer satisfaction and seamless operations. A resume for this industry should highlight experience with customer service, teamwork, and flexibility. Include positions where you’ve gained skills in high-pressure environments, as this is crucial for roles in busy restaurants or cafés.
When crafting a resume, focus on quantifiable achievements. Instead of just listing “customer service,” add specifics: “Delivered prompt, friendly service, leading to a 25% increase in positive customer reviews.” This emphasis on results not only showcases your experience but also gives hiring managers a clear idea of the value you bring.
Key Sections to Include
1. Summary: Start with a strong summary that highlights your experience and specific expertise. For example: “Experienced server with over five years in high-volume restaurants, skilled in creating a positive guest experience and managing peak hours efficiently.”
2. Skills: List core skills such as “Customer Service,” “POS Systems,” and “Teamwork,” aligning with what restaurant roles demand. This makes it easy for hiring managers to see that you have the necessary skills for the position.
3. Experience: When detailing your experience, use action verbs and focus on responsibilities and results. If you’ve held roles as a server, bartender, or cook, describe key tasks, such as training new staff, ensuring food quality, or efficiently handling large orders.
4. Certifications and Training: Many roles in the restaurant industry benefit from food safety and customer service certifications. If you have training from reputable sources, include it. This can make you a stronger candidate and help you stand out.
Using Action Words to Highlight Your Impact
Descriptive action words make your experience come to life. Use terms like “trained,” “coordinated,” “managed,” or “optimized” to give hiring managers a clear sense of your proactive contributions. For instance, instead of writing, “I helped in kitchen operations,” try “Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure timely, quality service during peak hours.” This adjustment adds clarity and appeal.
Choose the Right Format
Resumes in the restaurant industry should be clear and organized. Consider using a reverse-chronological format, which is a favorite among hiring managers as it shows your most recent experience first. Alternatively, a functional format can work well if you’re transitioning roles within the industry. Our CV review services can provide guidance on which format best suits your background and job goals.
Proofread and Personalize
Attention to detail is crucial in hospitality, and a polished resume reflects your commitment to quality. Proofreading ensures your resume is free from typos or formatting errors, which can be a red flag to employers. If applying to specific restaurant groups or franchises, consider personalizing your resume to match their style or values.
How a Professional Resume Service Can Help
Our professional CV service understands the restaurant industry’s unique demands. From highlighting your relevant skills to providing feedback on format and style, we can create a resume that captures your strengths effectively. Hiring managers look for candidates who can handle fast-paced environments and deliver top-notch service, and a tailored resume gives you a competitive edge.
With so many moving parts in the restaurant industry, having a professional team assist with your resume can relieve some of the pressure and increase your chances of landing the ideal job. Our experts can help refine your resume so it speaks directly to what restaurant employers value most.
In a fast-paced field like the restaurant industry, a well-crafted resume is essential for making a great first impression. By emphasizing your relevant skills, tailoring your format, and using impactful language, you’ll be better positioned to land the hospitality role you’re aiming for. Our resume writing service is here to help you craft a standout resume that highlights your strengths and aligns with the needs of restaurant hiring managers. With the right resume, you can take a major step toward a fulfilling and successful career in hospitality.