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Would you recommend a job in the food-serivce industry? Why or why not?
Note: this question is part of our professionals series where pros ask questions they wish they saw students asking
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5 answers
Madi Dunlap
Forensic Consultant
193
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Madi’s Answer
I would suggest a job in the food-service industry! It allows you to acquire valuable experience and versatile skills that can be applied to any chosen profession, whether you decide to stay in food-service or explore other fields. Essential skills you'll gain include exceptional customer service, punctuality, and the ability to thrive under pressure with swift turnaround times.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
613
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I LOVE what I do within food-service. I started as a catering delivery driver and worked my up to a VP of Sales. At an entry level position, pay may not be what you’d ideally want, but as you learn, get promoted and take on more, there can be lots of resources and enjoyment.
I also get to oversee a donation program where we support schools and non-profits in our community. The letters of appreciation we get from giving meals to seniors and such is amazing.
I also get to oversee a donation program where we support schools and non-profits in our community. The letters of appreciation we get from giving meals to seniors and such is amazing.
Tara T Cortez
Disable
33
Answers
Autryville, North Carolina
Updated
Tara T’s Answer
It really depends on where you envision yourself in the future. If you're interested in pursuing a career in the food industry, there are numerous paths you can take. However, it's essential to start at the entry level and grow from there. If you're aiming for higher positions, attending college can help you advance further.
I've had experience working in fast food, diners, and sit-down restaurants. While there are differences and similarities among them, you can acquire valuable skills from all three that can be useful in other jobs as well. For example, Hostesses, Waitresses, Cashiers, Shift Leaders, Assistant Managers, Bartenders, and Managers all develop essential skills like customer relations, order taking, communication, active listening, beverage preparation, and money management. Shift Leaders, Assistant Managers, and Managers also gain additional skills such as scheduling, organization, paperwork management, supply ordering, and employee relations management. Cooks, Sous Chefs, Prep-Line Cooks, Salad Bar Attendants, and Chefs share common skills like supply ordering, food preparation, attention to detail, communication, active listening, menu creation, and creativity. You can acquire these skills by progressing within the food industry.
If you aspire to climb higher up the ladder, like becoming a District Manager, Regional Manager, or even higher, you might want to consider attending college. However, there are still opportunities for growth in the food industry if you choose a restaurant with potential for expansion. A small family restaurant that has been open for 20 years without expanding might be a good starting point to gain skills, but not necessarily for a long-term career. Most of these establishments have limited promotion opportunities and a salary cap. I hope this information helps you make your decision.
I've had experience working in fast food, diners, and sit-down restaurants. While there are differences and similarities among them, you can acquire valuable skills from all three that can be useful in other jobs as well. For example, Hostesses, Waitresses, Cashiers, Shift Leaders, Assistant Managers, Bartenders, and Managers all develop essential skills like customer relations, order taking, communication, active listening, beverage preparation, and money management. Shift Leaders, Assistant Managers, and Managers also gain additional skills such as scheduling, organization, paperwork management, supply ordering, and employee relations management. Cooks, Sous Chefs, Prep-Line Cooks, Salad Bar Attendants, and Chefs share common skills like supply ordering, food preparation, attention to detail, communication, active listening, menu creation, and creativity. You can acquire these skills by progressing within the food industry.
If you aspire to climb higher up the ladder, like becoming a District Manager, Regional Manager, or even higher, you might want to consider attending college. However, there are still opportunities for growth in the food industry if you choose a restaurant with potential for expansion. A small family restaurant that has been open for 20 years without expanding might be a good starting point to gain skills, but not necessarily for a long-term career. Most of these establishments have limited promotion opportunities and a salary cap. I hope this information helps you make your decision.
Dan Hoffman
Chef
8
Answers
Omaha, Nebraska
Updated
Dan’s Answer
I wouldn't recommend it as just a job. Hours are grueling, making relationships difficult. There is A LOT of ego in the industry, which can be difficult to work with.
BUT
if you love working with food, I've never worked jobs that were more fun with more interesting people than being in a kitchen. And if you find the right place, there can be decent work-life balance. If nothing else, you'll never starve!
Check out different restaurants and observe the staff. If no one is having a good time, you probably don't want to with there.
BUT
if you love working with food, I've never worked jobs that were more fun with more interesting people than being in a kitchen. And if you find the right place, there can be decent work-life balance. If nothing else, you'll never starve!
Dan recommends the following next steps:
Lisa Lim
8
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
Working in food service offers a wealth of valuable learning experiences. The fast-paced nature of this field trains you to juggle multiple tasks and make quick decisions. Moreover, it opens doors to a variety of career paths within the ecosystem, from catering and restaurants to the hospitality sector. I attribute my ability to navigate high-stress work environments with grace and foresight to my experience in food service. Plus, the scheduling flexibility it provides is a definite perk. In my opinion, it's an excellent starting point for those entering the workforce.