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Hospitality Customer Service Tips
Want to provide outstanding customer service to each and every guest? You’ll be sure to shine when you follow these five simple customer service tips.
Always remember, first impressions do matter. Every day on the job put yourself in the shoes of your guest. Look them in the eye and greet them with a friendly sincere smile. Good first impressions can go a long way when it comes to smoothing out future problems.
Sir Richard Branson hit the nail on the head when he said “Stepford customer service-the rigid, phony, scripted service style…is such a turnoff.” Consumers want their experience to be real and authentic. They want to feel as though they are your most important guest of the day and that you are truly excited for them to be there. In today’s fast paced, often not so nice world, guests want to be recognized, acknowledged and appreciated.
Challenge yourself to become a “yes” person. That means going out of your way to make sure each and every interaction you have with a guest ends positively. And that as often as possible you figure out a way make the customer happy without having to pass them off to someone else or tell them a certain request can’t be fulfilled. Flexibility is key. Because every guest is different, no two days in the hospitality industry will ever be the same. Adopt an attitude of flexibility and make a point of always going the extra mile to make that guest happy.
Take pride in your job by taking pride in your appearance. Often people perceive how you look as a reflection in your attitude and competence. Plus we all know, dressing professionally is a great confidence booster which in turn gives you a measure of self assurance and a proactive approach to your day.
Practice empathy. Never take a guest’s anger personally. Put yourself in their place and try to understand their dissatisfaction. Apologize when necessary and if possible tactfully work on diffusing the situation. But never hesitate to call a superior if the situation continues to escalate.
For the best in temporary, part-time or full-time employment options in and around the greater St. Louis area, please connect with Staffing One Services today. Call 314.361.2444 and speak with one of our professional career counselors for additional information.
Dealing with Dietary Challenged Diners
These days chances are pretty good a table of four at just about any restaurant will have at least one person with some sort of food allergy or medical concern. From being gluten free, lactose intolerant or dealing with a peanut or shellfish allergy, serving restaurant patrons can be difficult. Then there are those who suffer from an allergy or intolerance from common ingredients such as onions, garlic and even salt. Here are some tried and true tips to help keep your customers happy and safe with their menu choices.
There is a difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance. And no, as a server it isn’t your responsibility to know the difference; that is up to the customer. But you should make it your responsibility to educate yourself as to the ingredients in your restaurant’s most popular dishes. This way if someone asks if a particular menu item has anything from MSG to high fructose corn syrup, you’ll have the answer. Patrons appreciate servers who take the extra step to ensure their safety.
If asked if a dish has a certain ingredient and you don’t know, be honest and then go ask the chef. As tempting as it may be to fudge the truth, especially when the house is packed, it’s not worth it if your customer has a violent reaction. Also, there is a chance that both you and the restaurant could be held liable in civil court if a lawsuit is filed. Treat food allergies as seriously as when it comes to dealing with an intoxicated guest.
Clarify with your manager or head chef the policy on menu item substitutions. Often in the case of severe food allergies a patron may require their food be prepared with completely separate kitchen equipment to avoid any chance of cross contamination; something most restaurant kitchens aren’t able to provide. Then know the policy on how to inform the customer that the kitchen can’t accommodate their dietary needs. Generally this is something a manager will want to handle personally.
The service industry is booming in St. Louis and Staffing One Services is here to assist you with finding the perfect full-time, part-time or temporary job. Call us today at 314.361.2444 to speak with one of our professional employment consultants.
Start Planning Now for Your Summer Job
A summer job is a great way to try on different career options and determine what you are really interested in. For example, you may think you want to work in the retail clothing industry. The often generous employee discount, a glamorous mall or large shopping center setting, getting to visit with your friends while they shop; only to discover you hate the long hours, the constant tidying of garments and your friends only come by to try to use your discount. But you’ll never know unless you experience it for yourself.
Next consider your schedule keeping already previously made commitments in mind. Then stop and think about your lifestyle. Not a morning person? Don’t bother applying for a server position at a breakfast restaurant. Allergic to dogs? Skip the kennel assistant application at your local veterinarian’s office. Of course, it is important to remember with school out soon, competition for certain jobs may become fierce and it may be necessary for you to step outside your comfort zone depending on what is available in your area.
Now work on your resume or CV. Don’t fret if you have no prior experience. Simply focus on your educational highlights along with extracurricular activities. Make note of volunteer duties, special hobbies and internships. If you babysit, walk the neighbor’s dog or mow their grass, these are all jobs you should include. This shows you have initiative, can complete tasks and have specific skills. Also, include three references your prospective employer can follow up with. Just make sure to ask the person ahead of time if it’s ok to include them.
Once you have determined what positions you want to apply for go online and read up on their hiring practices. Some businesses, especially those with a Help Wanted sign in the front window, generally expect you to apply in person with resume in hand; while others prefer and/or require an online application. Dress neatly and professionally anytime you will be meeting a prospective employer in person. If you begin with a phone interview speak clearly and be polite.
Good luck! And remember to include time for a little fun during the summer break!
One call to 314.361.2444 does it all when searching for the best in temporary, full-time or part-time employment in and around the greater St. Louis area. Connect with Staffing One Services today.
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