If you have a passion for cooking, a career in restaurant management may be the perfect fit. The benefits of this field include a steady paycheck and a variety of social events. In addition, you can learn new skills, travel the world, and make valuable contributions to the community. Read on to find out more about the job description and requirements of a restaurant manager. Once you have a good idea of what it takes to be a great manager, you can start looking for jobs in the field.
Job Description of Typical Restaurant Manager
A restaurant manager’s job is to ensure that diners’ dining experiences are as good as possible. As such, the job description of a restaurant manager must communicate with upper management and incorporate company values in hiring and training staff. In addition, a restaurant manager must ensure that the entire service process runs smoothly, assigning Waiters to tables, and assisting the front of house staff. Other duties include adhering to budgets and policies, placing orders, and helping Waiters perform their duties during shifts when there aren’t enough employees.
Other responsibilities of a restaurant manager include controlling profit & loss, cash control, inventory management, and labor. The restaurant manager also monitors financial reports and maintains the ambiance of the restaurant. This job also requires you to act as a mediator in conflicts involving staff members. Regardless of the prevailing situation, a restaurant manager should remain objective, unbiased, and friendly. Then, the manager can return to the restaurant floor with a calm mind.
Requirements to Be a Restaurant Manager
As a restaurant manager, you’ll oversee the daily operations of a business. You’ll decide which types of food to order, handle employee scheduling, ensure compliance with health regulations, and hire and train employees. Aside from serving customers, you’ll need to be able to multitask and be calm in stressful situations. As a manager, you’ll also be responsible for following health and safety procedures, recording income, ordering ingredients for the kitchen, and communicating with customers. Having a high school diploma is necessary, and you’ll need to know how to manage time wisely.
You may also need to get some formal education. While some restaurant owners prefer managers with a high school diploma or college degree, a degree can help you in your job. However, experience in the industry is more important than education. Obtaining any of the following certifications is highly recommended, including Food Protection Manager (FPM), Restaurant Safety Manager (RHCP), and Hospitality Management Professional (HACCP) certification.
Finding Jobs as a Restaurant Manager
A great way to find jobs as a restaurant manager is to network with people in the industry. Your butcher, produce distributor, or even regulars at the restaurant you work at can make recommendations for a qualified candidate. These personal references will help you weed out the unqualified applicants. You can also find specific job postings on websites dedicated to the restaurant industry. These websites may require a small fee. However, they will definitely be worth it.
Once you’ve gotten some experience working in the field, you may want to work your way up to the higher levels. Many restaurant jobs begin at the lowest levels. A job as an assistant manager can be a good entry-level position, but it can be demanding. You’ll be juggling long hours and high levels of responsibility. Your relationships with lower-level employees will also be different. But there are many ways to succeed as a restaurant manager.