Restaurant Host or Hostess

What is a restaurant host or hostess?

A restaurant host or hostess is someone who greets and welcomes customers as they arrive at a restaurant. They help to create a positive and friendly atmosphere for guests.

What does a restaurant host or hostess do?

Usually, a restaurant host or hostess does the following tasks:

• Greet and welcome customers as they enter the restaurant
• Assist customers in finding a suitable table and seating them
• Manage the waiting list and handle reservations
• Provide menus to customers and answer any initial questions they may have
• Coordinate with the servers and kitchen staff to ensure smooth operation
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the reception area

What does the day-to-day life of a restaurant host or hostess look like?

A restaurant host or hostess typically works in shifts, which can include weekdays, evenings, weekends, and public holidays. They usually work between 20 to 40 hours per week, depending on the restaurant's needs.

The tasks they might do on a daily basis include:

• Greeting and seating customers
• Taking reservations and managing the waiting list
• Answering phone calls and addressing customer inquiries
• Coordinating with the servers and kitchen staff
• Ensuring the reception area is clean and presentable
• Assisting in resolving any customer concerns or issues

Where does a restaurant host or hostess work?

Restaurant hosts or hostesses work in various types of restaurants, such as:

• Fine dining establishments
• Casual dining restaurants
• Family-friendly restaurants
• Fast-food chains

You can find restaurant host or hostess jobs in locations throughout the United Kingdom, including cities, towns, and even rural areas.

What tools/software/hardware does a restaurant host or hostess use?

As a restaurant host or hostess, you may use the following tools and equipment:

• Reservation management systems or software
• Restaurant paging systems or devices
• POS (Point of Sale) systems for seating and tracking tables

What do I need to become a restaurant host or hostess?

To become a restaurant host or hostess, you don't usually need any specific qualifications. However, having the following skills and qualities can be advantageous:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Friendly and welcoming demeanor
• Good organizational abilities
• Ability to handle difficult situations calmly
• Basic math skills for seating calculations

What career paths are available?

As a restaurant host or hostess, there are various career paths you can explore, including:

• Senior Host or Hostess: With experience, you can take on more responsibilities and oversee a team of hosts or hostesses.
• Restaurant Manager: You can progress to a managerial role, where you would be responsible for overall restaurant operations and staff management.

To start on these career paths, gaining experience as a restaurant host or hostess, showcasing excellent customer service skills, and demonstrating leadership qualities will be beneficial.

What jobs are similar to a restaurant host or hostess?

• Server or Waiter/Waitress: Providing service to customers by taking orders, serving food, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Guest Relations Officer: Managing customer experiences and handling guest inquiries in various industries, such as hotels or event venues.
• Concierge: Assisting guests with their needs and providing recommendations and information at hotels, resorts, or luxury apartment buildings.

What made you want to become a restaurant host or hostess?

How did you get your first restaurant host or hostess job?

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being a restaurant host or hostess?

Are you a restaurant host or hostess? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to restaurant hosting. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.