How to Create a Standout Resume for a Career in Hospitality
The hospitality business is always evolving. There is always an opportunity for employment, but are you competitive enough to land your ideal position? To craft a professional hospitality resume that positions you for success in landing your ideal job, what should you do? Let’s dive in.
- Thorough Research
Begin by researching the job market within the hospitality industry. Understand the types of positions available and identify those that align best with your skills, interests, and career objectives. This knowledge will enable you to target your resume effectively.
- Keep it Short
When writing a resume, one of the most common errors that people make is making it too long for the position they are applying for. If you haven’t been in the industry for at least twenty years and gained a wide variety of experiences during that time, you should probably keep your resume to a maximum of two pages. This will give you the best chance of getting hired.
- Clear Formatting & Thorough Proofreading
Opt for a clean and professional resume format that emphasizes clarity and simplicity. Choose a straightforward, easy-to-read font, and maintain consistent formatting throughout your document. Devote time to proofread your resume carefully, eliminating any grammatical errors, typos, or formatting inconsistencies. Seek feedback from trusted individuals to ensure the accuracy and clarity of your document.
- Objective or Summary Statement
Craft a concise and tailored objective or summary statement. This section should effectively communicate your career goals and key qualifications while aligning with the specific job you are applying for.
- Skills Section
Under a dedicated “Skills” section, list relevant hard and soft skills. Highlight essential attributes such as exceptional customer service, strong communication, effective teamwork, problem-solving, and keen attention to detail. If applicable, include technical skills like proficiency in point-of-sale (POS) systems or reservation software.
- Professional Experience
Organize your work history under a “Professional Experience” section. Begin with your most recent job and work in reverse chronological order. For each position, provide key details such as your job title, company name, location, and dates of employment. Utilize bullet points to succinctly describe your responsibilities and accomplishments, emphasizing measurable achievements wherever possible.
- Education and Certifications
Create a dedicated sub header for “Education.” List your academic background, including degrees earned, institution names, locations, graduation dates, and any pertinent certifications.
- Add a Personal Touch
Managers in the hospitality industry are looking for more than just talent. The right attitude and personality are essential. Including some personal details can help potential employers get to know you better. Write a summary of your interests and hobbies, as well as any projects or volunteer work you’ve completed. You can also put a small photo of yourself (a professional head shot is best) on top of the resume.
- Design and Visual Appeal
Maintain a clean, professional design with well-chosen margins and spacing. Implement bullet points for improved readability and use bold or italics sparingly for emphasis where needed.
- Strategic Job Search
In addition to your resume, employ various job search strategies, including utilizing online job boards, engaging with professional networks, and exploring industry-specific websites for job openings. Attend relevant events such as job fairs, networking functions, and industry conferences to build connections and stay informed about opportunities.
By meticulously following these steps and maintaining a proactive job search approach, you will significantly enhance your chances of creating an impressive hospitality resume and successfully securing your ideal job within the industry.