A Hospitality Career Path
The hospitality industry is always looking for skilled professionals, in roles such as team members, supervisors and managers.
For school leavers or those considering a career transition, the path towards advancing in the hospitality sector offers abundant promise and opportunity. Let's take a look into what aspiring professionals can achieve in this dynamic and fulfilling field.
A Hospitality Career Path
Embarking on a journey in hospitality isn't solely about creating delightful experiences for your guests (although that’s very important!); it's a great way to build your career and self-esteem. Though the road ahead may present challenges, the rewards are unmatched. From bustling hotel environments to fine dining establishments, the avenues for progression are diverse and enticing.
Becoming a hospitality apprentice, you'll undergo rigorous training, mastering the essentials of service and customer interaction. Through dedication and skill development, you can rise through the ranks to become a supervisor, entrusted with overseeing operations, and eventually, a manager, where your hospitality expertise comes to the fore.
What Essential Skills Do You Need To Succeed in Hospitality?
Success in the hospitality industry relies on a mix of customer service and problem solving skills. Key skills required include the ability to thrive under pressure, collaborate effectively with other team members and exhibit meticulous attention to detail. Furthermore, a passion for hospitality combined with creativity and leadership aptitude are essential attributes for aspiring professionals.
You'll need the ability to:
Give great customer service and communicate empathetically
Work well with your team members
Manage your time effectively
Problem-solve and take initiative
Thrive in a high-pressure industry
Have attention to detail
Handle conflict in a professional manner
Respond and interpret the social and emotional world around you
Understand the hospitality industry
Salaries and Working Hours in Hospitality
While salaries in the hospitality industry vary depending on factors such as experience and the reputation of the establishment, the earning potential is considerable. From entry-level positions to seasoned managers, salaries can range annually. However, it's important to note that working hours in hospitality are demanding, often including evenings, weekends, and public holidays to accommodate peak service times.
The average annual salaries* range from £18,000 (Entry-level positions) to £42,500 (Managerial roles).
Typical working hours are around 40-45 hours per week**. Be prepared for evening, weekend, and holiday shifts as these are peak times in the industry.
*Apprenticeship wages may vary.
** If you're undergoing an apprenticeship, a minimum of 6 hours per week is allocated for Off-the-job learning.
Career Progression and Opportunities in Hospitality
The hospitality sector is exceptionally fast-paced, offering talented and dedicated professionals the chance to advance rapidly and enhance their skills.
A typical career timeline may look like this:
Hospitality Team Member: (0-2 years)
Hospitality Supervisor: (3 to 4 years)
Hospitality Manager: (4 – 8 years)
Senior Management: (9 – 10 years)
Types of Hospitality Careers
Hospitality has a diverse and long-ranging list of roles to suit all individuals. To name a few:
Bar staff
Barista
Butler
Cellar technician
Cruise ship staff
Hotel manager
Hotel porter
Hotel room attendant
Housekeeper
Kitchen porter
Restaurant manager
School lunchtime supervisor
Waiter
Wedding planner
Umbrella Training's comprehensive hospitality programmes blend hands-on training with academic learning, providing aspiring professionals with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in today's dynamic hospitality landscape. Learn more about our apprenticeships here. With industry-leading mentors and a supportive learning environment, our apprenticeships are ideal for initiating a successful career in the hospitality industry.
Whether you're a recent school leaver or considering a career change, reach out to our friendly team to discover more!
