What should you expect when you accept a job offer?
Pay
Your hourly pay, or weekly/monthly salary paid provides a good living wage and is consistent with the level of experience of the applicant
Hours
The hospitality industry has been tainted with long hours in the past. Things have changed quite dramatically in recent times, with employers recognising there is little benefit to their staff being over worked.
Conditions
The modern Hospitality industry has a zero tolerance of harassment or bullying in the workplace. That is not to say there is no discipline. The sector thrives on dedication and with that comes a degree of being told when you have done wrong, and congratulated when you have done right. But you should never be made to feel afraid. You should be provided with a complaints procedure and know who your supervisor is, should you need to discuss concerns.
Social life
Is it possible to have a good social life when you are working anti-social hours? In the past, not really. But today’s hospitality employers recognise the need to blow off steam every now and again. If there’s a special occasion you need to attend, or you plan to go to a festival with your mates – give your employer the heads up – well in advance. They want you to have a life too (and they blow off steam themselves from time to time!)
Training
You don’t just join as a commis to stay there. On the job training is important and the thing that will help you to progress up the ladder. Open dialogue with your employer on a monthly basis is a great start. Make a record together of how you are doing. Ask your employer for their forecast on areas you should be training towards and goals you can achieve.
Support
You should feel supported by both your team and your employer. Professionally and, if necessary, personally.
Uniform
In most circumstances, your employers will have standards on uniform. Some will provide you with the basics, others will give you instruction on how to dress for the job. There may also be guidelines with your presentation – hair and jewellery, for example – discuss all of these with your employer before you start.
Holidays
At your interview, or induction, raise the question on holidays, and how you should book time off. Both you, and your employer need to plan for holidays.
Resignation
Although you are only starting a job, you should still understand the protocol for leaving the position when you are ready. Some employers ask for 2 weeks’ notice, others 3 months. Ask your employer what they would expect of you when you are ready to move on. Often, if a candidate has been exemplary in his or her conduct, the former employer will play a great role in recommending you to others. These can be fantastic references for your future bosses and open up opportunities to you that may be difficult to get through, without a personal recommendation.
