Crafting the Perfect CV for Hospitality Jobs: A Comprehensive Guide

Landing a job in the hospitality industry requires a standout CV that showcases your skills, experience, and passion for customer service. Here’s a comprehensive guide to writing the perfect CV for hospitality jobs that will help you secure your dream job in the hospitality sector.

Start with a Strong Personal Statement

Your personal statement is the first thing employers will read, so make it count. In a few sentences, summarize your experience, key skills, and career goals. Tailor this section to reflect your passion for the hospitality industry and your enthusiasm for the role you’re applying for.

Example:

"As a dedicated and customer-focused professional with over five years of experience in the hospitality industry, I am passionate about delivering exceptional service and creating memorable experiences for guests. I am seeking a challenging role where I can leverage my skills in team management and customer relations."

Highlight Relevant Experience

List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. Focus on roles that are relevant to the hospitality industry, such as positions in hotels, restaurants, bars, cafes, or any customer service-oriented job. For each position, include:

• Job title

• Employer’s name

• Dates of employment

• Key responsibilities and achievements

Example:

Restaurant Manager, The Gourmet Bistro, London

June 2018 – Present

• Managed a team of 20 staff members, ensuring high standards of service and efficiency.

• Developed and implemented training programs, leading to a 15% improvement in customer satisfaction scores.

• Oversaw daily operations, including inventory management, staff scheduling, and financial reporting.

Emphasize Key Skills

The hospitality industry values a specific set of skills. Highlight these in a dedicated skills section to make it easy for employers to see your strengths at a glance. Include both hard and soft skills, such as:

• Customer service excellence

• Team leadership and management

• Multitasking and time management

• Problem-solving and conflict resolution

• Communication and interpersonal skills

• Language proficiency (if applicable)

• Technical skills (e.g., familiarity with POS systems, reservation software)

Example:

Key Skills:

• Exceptional customer service

• Strong leadership and team management

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Opera PMS

• Fluent in Spanish and French

Include Relevant Certifications and Training

Certifications and specialized training can give you an edge in the competitive hospitality job market. List any relevant qualifications, such as:

• Food Safety Certification

• First Aid Certification

• Barista Training

• Wine and Spirits Education

• Hotel Management Courses

Example:

Certifications:

• Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene for Catering

• First Aid at Work (FAW)

• WSET Level 2 Award in Wines and Spirits

Showcase Education

Detail your educational background, including any degrees, diplomas, or courses relevant to hospitality. List your education in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.

Example:

Education:

• Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management, University of West London, 2015 – 2018

• Diploma in Culinary Arts, Le Cordon Bleu London, 2014 – 2015

Add Professional Affiliations

If you are a member of any professional organizations related to hospitality, include them in your CV. This demonstrates your commitment to the industry and continuous professional development.

Example:

Professional Affiliations:

• Member, Institute of Hospitality

• Member, British Hospitality Association

Tailor Your CV to the Job Description

Customize your CV for each job application. Carefully read the job description and align your experience and skills with the requirements of the role. Use the same keywords and phrases from the job listing to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Example:

If the job description emphasizes "experience in a high-volume restaurant environment," ensure your CV highlights relevant experience in similar settings.

Keep It Clear and Concise

A well-structured CV should be clear, concise, and easy to read. Use bullet points, headings, and white space effectively. Aim for a maximum of two pages, ensuring that every piece of information is relevant and adds value.

Proofread and Edit

Attention to detail is crucial in the hospitality industry. Proofread your CV multiple times to catch any errors or typos. Consider asking a friend or mentor to review it as well to ensure it’s polished and professional.

Optional: Include a Cover Letter

While not always necessary for hospitality roles, a tailored cover letter can add value to your application. Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the role and how your experience aligns with the company’s needs. This personalised touch can make a significant difference in catching the employer’s attention.

By following these tips, you’ll create a compelling CV that highlights your strengths and experience in the hospitality industry. Whether you're applying for a position in a hotel, restaurant, bar, cafe, or any other hospitality establishment, a well-crafted CV can help you stand out from the competition and secure the right job for you.