When people are in the process of writing their CVs and look back at their hospitality experience, they are often reminded of the long shifts, unsociable hours and difficult customer interactions. What they usually forget is the extensive transferable skillset, which was developed along the way, transferable skills which are high in demand across pretty much every industry!
No matter which industry you are planning to move into, your hospitality experience is likely to have equipped you with much more than you realise. In this blog we will look at a selection of key transferable skills which are commonly gained in the hospitality industry:
Communication and Empathy
Across hospitality, whether managing bookings, taking orders, briefing a kitchen team, or helping guests at reception, hospitality workers know how to communicate clearly, confidently, and calmly. These communication skills involve adapting to suit different people and situations and are the same communication skills that help people thrive in other industries.
Problem Solving, Adaptability and Resilience
Hospitality keeps you on your toes. No two days are the same, and unexpected challenges are part of the job. Hospitality teaches you to think on your feet and find practical solutions while working under pressure. On top of that, hospitality often involves working long hours, late nights, weekends, and holidays which is true resilience. These strengths are beneficial in any work environment.
Time Management and Multitasking
The fast paced nature of the hospitality industry requires a lot of juggling, from waiting multiple tables to checking in several guests at once, prioritisation is essential to keeping everyone happy. The ability to multitask, prioritise and stay calm under pressure is a serious advantage in any industry.
Teamwork
No matter the role in hospitality, one thing is for sure in that teamwork is essential! The nature of hospitality, whether you work in a bar, restaurant, hotel, or any other area means you share the workload and are part of a team that relies on each other. Collaboration and teamwork stretches far beyond hospitality and is beneficial in all industries.
Sales
Sales may not be immediately thought of when it comes to hospitality, however the industry teaches a ‘sales through service’ technique. This technique comes from understanding clients’ needs, and subtly upselling or promoting extras to enhance their experience – something that can be extremely favourable in other industries.
The hospitality industry involves a lot more than it’s often given credit for. It’s not all about service, hospitality experience truly builds real, practical skills which are transferable to every industry.
Remember, don’t underestimate what you bring to the table… it’s not just food and drinks, it’s a whole array of valuable transferable skills!
Are you looking for your next career move or to change industry? Book a call with our Customer Services Team to see how we can help!