There is no doubt that restaurant managers are among the hardest workers in the professional world. However, regardless of how hard you work, you are always at the mercy of decisions of leadership and a finicky public who are always looking for the next trendy restaurant. Therefore, many restaurant managers understand that it is ALWAYS a good idea to keep a fresh resume handy in case an opportunity presents itself that will better reward you for your hard work.
However, most restaurant managers have valid concerns about changing jobs. Some are concerned with backward steps in positions (many times outside of your control), gaps in employment, or credit history. Many HR managers still think that the resume must be perfect and if these issues exist then you must not be a valid restaurant manager candidate. They could not be more wrong and as a professional recruiter, we encourage HR managers to dig deeper than what you can put on your resume. The resume is important, but once you get an interview what are some things you can do to ensure that you are a top candidate for the job?
First, you must continue to work hard in your current job. It is not outside the realm of possibility that HR managers will either visit your store or enlist the opinion of somebody who has. Conduct yourself with professionalism. Take care of your customers. Train your employees. Protect the brand. People may be watching.
Second, you must continue to get better. Learn everything you can from your supervisor. Ask questions. Ask for more responsibility. Watch a manager you admire, ask them about their success. Be ready, on a moment’s notice, to take over responsibilities that are not normally yours. If you learn everything you can about not only your restaurant, but the industry itself, you will go far in an interview process, even if your resume has some issues that are normally red flags for HR Professionals.
Finally, find a recruiter who will work on your behalf. There are so many reasons why this is a good idea. If you find a recruiter who cares, they will help you and work on your behalf to get you the job. There is no fee to you and you are getting an agent on your side to put you in the best position for getting the job. The opinion of a respected recruiter is many times the most valuable piece of information to the hiring manager. Recruiters should have certain characteristics and you should choose carefully. If you do this, you will have a professional recruiter on your side for the balance of your career.
The economic events of the last decade have changed the way HR Professionals view resumes. Now, more than ever, it is important that you bring a strong work ethic and a broad knowledge base to the table. If you use a professional recruiter, who can serve as your advocate, you will stand apart from the rest of the candidates who are interviewing for the same job. Be ready at any time, your next opportunity could be right around the corner!
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I’m seeking to obtain more information on policies in reference to hiring minors who are currently enrolled in high school.
nitocha74@gmail.com
Every company is different. The best thing for them to do is to dress nicely, walk into the restaurant and ask for the manager. Restaurants are always hiring crew members and it is likely they would get an interview on the spot. If not, they will give them an application to fill out and will no doubt get a call sooner than later. Tattoos and piercings (except ears) are usually a turn off for restaurants. If they have them, they should cover them, and be prepared to do that every time they go to work. I hope this helps.