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In the hospitality industry, there are countless individuals who believe they have what it takes to be qualified restaurant managers. Unfortunately, the reality is that only a select few possess the necessary skills and experience to truly excel in this role. The absence of a defined career path for restaurant management only compounds the issue. With more opportunities opening up in the industry now than ever before, it’s essential to have a strong grasp of what hospitality recruiters and recruitment firms are looking for.

To start, you must demonstrate that you’re not just a planner, but also a doer. The last thing any hiring manager wants is a manager who spends three months planning a project that should only take two weeks to execute. Strong communication skills and proficiency with report writing, organizational skills, and office software are also critical. Interviewers may ask you about your preferred employee scheduling app and which management software packages you have trained on. To stand out from the competition, show that you have gone above and beyond by auditing a free MIT course or seeking out learning resources on Udemy.com, Lynda.com, Treehouse.com, or Skillshare.com.

When it comes to showcasing your qualifications, having a strong portfolio is essential. Did you work on a project, a redesign, or a special event in your previous job posting? Create a record of your experiences and keep track of your victories and mistakes. Even if it’s an employee handbook you wrote for yourself, bring it to your interview. Your handbook can reveal your communication abilities, graphic design skills, and overall degree of organizational prowess.

Another critical factor in securing a restaurant management position is your personal brand. Your brand needs to resonate with recruiters and convey a sense of leadership, dedication, and passion for the industry. If you can’t sell yourself to a hiring manager, how can you sell a restaurant to prospective customers? The best way to demonstrate your brand is to focus on your unique selling proposition (USP). This means highlighting what distinguishes you from other candidates and showcasing what makes you uniquely qualified for restaurant management.

Overall, the ultimate goal is to bring added value to your employer. In this highly competitive industry, having the right combination of skills and experience is crucial when seeking a new role or promotion. By investing in your personal and professional development, you’ll increase your chances of advancing your career as a successful restaurant manager.