Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop

Serve as the face of the establishment by greeting customers, showing them to their seats (whether at a table or in the lounge), and keeping everything running smoothly.

Career Snapshot

ABOUT RESTAURANT/LOUNGE/COFFEE SHOP HOSTS OR HOSTESS CAREERS

If you enjoy dealing with people, like to dress nicely, and need a job that doesn't require any training, consider working as a host or hostess in a restaurant, lounge, or coffee shop. This is not the highest-paying position in the establishment, but it is critical because the host or hostess is the first impression a customer gets. 

The host or hostess is frequently in charge of taking bookings, directing customers to tables, distributing menus, and ensuring that they receive timely and pleasant service. In certain establishments, the host or hostess also serves as the cashier. 

Foreign language skills may be useful in restaurants that specialise in foreign cuisine. Except in very upmarket establishments, a host or hostess is rarely tipped directly by guests, but may earn tips if the staff pooled them. That is something to discuss during your employment interview. 

In most regions, the position of host or hostess is relatively straightforward to learn and low-stress, so it's a nice one to consider if you need income while attending school, writing a novel, auditioning for acting parts, or settling into a new city. 

Split shifts and part-time work are fairly prevalent. You will also frequently be required to work on weekends, evenings, and holidays. A pleasant attitude, a nice and clean look, and a smile are three things you'll need to bring to work every day.

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Wages


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Characteristics

Exposure to extreme environmental conditions
Physical demands
Critical decision making
Level of responsibilities
Leadership
Dealing and handling conflicts
Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines
Competition for this position
Communication with others
Work closely with team members, clients etc.
Comfort of the work setting
Exposure to job hazards

Activities

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Know More
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Know More
Getting Information Know More
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Know More
Making Decisions and Solving Problems Know More
Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Know More
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Know More
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others Know More

Areas of Study

Administration and Management Know More
Communications and Media Know More
Customer and Personal Service Know More
English Language Know More
Food Production Know More
Mathematics Know More
Public Safety and Security Know More
Sales and Marketing Know More

Degrees

Colleges

Top Skills

Active Listening Know More
Coordination Know More
Critical Thinking Know More
Negotiation Know More
Reading Comprehension Know More
Service Orientation Know More
Social Perceptiveness Know More
Speaking Know More