How to have a five-star Hospitality career

London is the five-star hotel capital of the world, with no less than 19 establishments meeting the criteria when it comes to stellar Hospitality. That’s according to the 2020 Star Rating Awards just published by Forbes Travel Guides.

So just what does it take to secure a top job in the top billing of Hospitality? And what kind of VIP roles can you expect to find?

Firstly, working in a five-star hotel requires a five-star type of person, with a five-star attitude and a five-star work ethic.

This is no bed-for-a-night roadside motel and candidates must be able to reflect the values of the luxury establishment they wish to represent. This usually means some experience will be beneficial, while qualifications can also help secure the coveted role. Typically, these would be hotel or tourism management qualifications, with additional evidence of professional development along the way.

Above all, however, demonstrating your personal commitment to guests and enthusiasm for the hotel brand are the two key attributes.

High-end establishments are focused on offering peerless service and this means the right candidates will be proactive and natural leaders when it comes to not only to maintaining but improving standards.

Always culturally aware, approachable and communicative, able to work well in highly pressurised situations or with high-profile VIP clientele, and often multi-lingual . . . these are just some of the standout qualities of the five-star employee.

Of course, new start positions in important areas such as housekeeping, kitchen assistance, portering and car valeting, are available and can be steppingstones to promoted positions – both in the same hotel and with other organisations seeking staff on jobs24.com.

But what kind of Hospitality roles can you take on that you might not have access to ordinarily?

Well, we’ve all heard of wine sommeliers but how about a tea sommelier? The very best hotels often recruit talented tea specialists to assist guests and restaurant patrons with selecting the best blends from around the world during afternoon tea. As a master brewer with a passion for a fine cuppa, you’ll be expected to dazzle customers with your knowledge and exquisite taste.

If bar work appeals, pouring pints will be a very small part of your remit in the five-star setting and specialist roles are plentiful. A mixologist, for example, is not the resident DJ but an expert in creating unique, artisan cocktails for the more discerning guests and adventurous novices. Trained in the art of mixology, not only will you be able to whip up classic recipes but also work tirelessly to develop new signature drinks.

You’ll need flair, passion and boundless energy to succeed.

Perhaps the quintessential emblem of pampering in the luxury sector is the hotel butler, who can play an important part in the overall customer experience. Often the primary point of contact for VIP guests, it is the butler’s mission not only to be a guide and go-to aide but also be a facilitator for every aspect of a stay. This can include taking personal care of 24-7 room service, organising bespoke trips and tours and, importantly, ensuring all the guests’ idiosyncratic preferences are noted and logged for future stays.

From housekeeping to hotel management – and all points of customer service in between – to ensure the five-star journey is a wonderful experience for guests, you must be at the top of your game.

If you’d like to show you’re the best of the best, check out the five-star career opportunities in Hospitality, Catering and Tourism on jobs24.com right now.

Posted on March 2, 2020