HOUSTON & HAWKES SUPPORT FOOD SERVICE CIRCLE: BLOG DAVE HAWKES
As our industry reels from the consequences of COVID19 it is clear that the events of the last seven months will affect our sector long into the future. When normality does return, the corporate environment will look very different. Clients will undoubtedly review their requirements and look towards a more flexible and fluid service.
The heart-breaking consequence of reduced volumes and changes in client activity are the significant redundancies the hospitality sector is facing. Each individual is affected in a very personal way and this impact should not be underestimated.
We all entered this industry because we love hospitality; good food and great service is in our blood. We are a resilient bunch and optimistic to the last, that said, the current circumstances have tested us all and will continue to do so. The industry will recover in time and the job market will increase once more, in the interim the harsh reality is that we must find work to support our families and those close to us.
I have been asked by several wonderful ex-employees what steps they should take as they look for employment. Of course, one size rarely fits all, however, my advice would centre around 3 key principles:
Stay connected
Set yourself targets by keeping mentally and physically fit
When opportunities do arise, remember the personal touch can be incredibly powerful
Staying Connected
Redundancy can bring a feeling of isolation to those it affects; it is important for individuals to remember that it is circumstance that has created this situation and it is not a reflection of an individual’s performance or worth. Staying connected is critical in so many ways. You will hear of opportunities and be at the forefront of people’s minds when opportunities do arise but more than this, you will remain part of the larger hospitality community.
It is important to be openminded, I know of a number of people who have benefited from following their passion; not by returning to similar roles to those they were used to, but by diversifying and joining companies who are linked in a different way to the food service industry. Remember you are not alone, there are some fantastic organisations out there who stive to support those within our industry who have fallen on challenging times. Do reach out and use the support networks that exist should you need assistance.
Set Targets
Motivation can be a real challenge during furlough and more recently, where individuals have found themselves out of work through no fault of their own. None of us are immune to this and from a personal perspective, I have found setting objects can really help. Our physical health often reflects how we are coping mentally with the challenges we encounter; setting myself personal goals undoubtedly aided my mental health. Dusting off my old road bike and searching out new local routes has been really beneficial not only physically but from a mental perspective too.
Use your time positively, many of the media platforms we are familiar with (such as LinkedIn) allow us to upskill in areas we may not have had the time to invest in previously. Learning and development will help you in an interview situation and where relevant, demonstrate your commitment to a prospective employer. Choose something that interests you and remember, it doesn’t have to be linked to hospitality.
Interviews – The Personal Touch
When searching for employment leave no stone left unturned, there are opportunities in the job market – however, they aren’t necessarily those that we would ordinarily look for. Should you need to look outside of the hospitality sector do so in the knowledge that as and when business returns to a semblance of normality, you will be welcomed back with open arms. Drop your prospective employer a note pre and post interview and make it personal, we all employ people we want to work with and that’s all about personalities.
Caroline Jones, founder of Cobham Career Management and registered career coach with the CDI, is clear that the personal touch can make a real difference when searching for a new role. Sharing her top interview tips Caroline believes that a memorable candidate will more often than not stay in an employer’s mind when a decision is being made.
Tip 1 – Do your homework, research the company you want to join: websites, blogs and social media are a great starting point- make sure you really understand the culture of the organisation
Tip 2 – Practice your “elevator pitch”, in less than one minute be able to explain why they should employ you for the role
Tip 3 – Prepare several questions to ask at the end of the interview that demonstrate that you have thought about their company and role you are applying for. Caroline would suggest that these are not about salary or promotion but focus on the organisation itself; why staff enjoy working there, what success looks like in the role and what’s important to them when recruiting individuals to join their team. A personal connection makes a real difference
CV’s remain a filtering point and a hurdle that must often be crossed to ensure you get your opportunity for a face to face interview. Caroline’s tips focus on that personal touch:
Tip 1 – Change your CV for each role – mirroring the key skills required and demonstrating the experience you have
Tip 2 – When using job boards, update your CV on a regular basis – at least twice a month, so that it doesn’t fall too far down on the searches
Tip 3 – Ensure you CV is an honest representation of your past – integrity is extremely important. Don’t be frightened to highlight what you have learnt in a previous role not just the skills you have, sharing challenges demonstrates your ability to learn and adapt.
We are fortunate to work in such a positive and engaging industry where people truly make the difference. These are the most challenging times I have encountered in my career; however, I am in no doubt our resilience will see us through. Please reach out, you are not alone.