5 tips for writing an interview-winning hospitality CV

Whether it’s waiting tables at a bistro or serving pints down the local, the hospitality sector boasts a wide range of full-time and part-time employment opportunities. To land a job, you need to showcase your dedication, customer service skills, and industry know-how. So, how do you get started? See our five top tips for writing a hospitality CV to bag your next interview. 

What is the hospitality sector? 

The hospitality industry covers any business that supplies food, drink, and/or lodging to customers. The range is massive. From local cafes serving baps to fine dining establishments and hotels. Working in this sector can be extremely rewarding, especially with a customer-facing, varied role.

Tips for creating a hospitality CV

Here are pointers for crafting a hospitality CV that wows any recruiter: 

1. Read the job posting closely

Before writing your CV, identify the specific skills highlighted in the job advert and consider how your professional experience aligns with them. 

Use the exact phrases in the job posting. If it asks for a “team player,” use those keywords on your CV precisely, rather than “good at teamwork.” It's a small detail but one that makes a huge difference if the employer is using an applicant tracking system (ATS) to filter applicants – having an ATS-friendly CV gives you a better chance of landing that all-important interview.

2. Show some personality in your personal statement

Hospitality is all about personality. Show you're a people person on your CV by using the personal statement to showcase what you have to offer.

You might want to include an interesting fact about your customer service experience or even a quote from a previous supervisor or manager. Taking the time to make this statement creative ‒ rather than simply following a standard template ‒ could help you attract all the right attention.

3. Highlight hospitality-centric skills

To give yourself the best chance of getting ahead, include key industry skills on your hospitality CV. Whilst hospitality skills for a CV may vary from role to role, there are some core talents that you want to include, such as:

• Teamwork: A huge part of working in hospitality is being part of a team. Whether you're a waiter, barista or chef, your hospitality CV should show that you have the necessary team working skills.

• Customer service: The customer is always right, or so the age-old saying goes. Show an employer that you're going to assist their customers with care and respect by listing this in your skills section.

• Cleaning and maintenance: In many hospitality jobs, you’ll be charged with cleaning up as you go. If you have prior experience with this skill, listing it on your hospitality CV shows the employer they can trust you to be a Mrs Hinch.

• Attention to detail: Employers need to know that they can trust you to deliver the best possible level of service and never miss a trick.

• Organisation: Organisational skills showcase your ability to take care of a multitude of tasks without getting overwhelmed.

• Leadership: Have you got your eye on a management position? If so, make sure to note your leadership competencies on your hospitality CV. 

4. Mix and match hard and soft skills

Furthermore, when writing the skills section of your hospitality CV, remember to highlight both hard and soft skills.

Hard or technical skills are learned proficiencies that apply directly to the role at hand. They can include inventory management, table service, and cooking. Soft skills, on the other hand, are more about your personality. These can include your leadership qualities, customer service style, people skills, and having the right motivation to work hard on every shift. 

5. Include industry-specific knowledge 

How much do you know about this given industry? Make it clear that you’re not just looking for any hospitality job – you want this one. Here are some examples: 

• Food knowledge: If you’re applying to a Michelin-starred restaurant, talk about your knowledge about culinary delights and your passion for the industry.

• Barista skills: When applying to a café or coffee shop, highlight your barista training and skills, and include relevant accomplishments, including awards, on your hospitality CV.

• Cocktail expertise: Applying to a cocktail bar? Prove your knowledge by listing the cocktail you can make, from a Long Island Iced Tea to a Mojito.

As you can see, your required knowledge depends on the hospitality role. Applying to Greggs? Mention your love for their steak bake – get creative!

Hospitality CV example

Jessica Smith  Trained Barista  Leeds, UK j.smith@email.co.uk 0114 592 4050

Summary

Hardworking and reliable barista with 10+ years of experience in hospitality. Trained in a selection of coffee-making techniques and latte art at the London School of Coffee. Confident in tending to customers’ needs and creating a welcoming environment for all. 

Work experience 

Barista at 200 Degrees, Leeds May 2024 - Present 

• Serves 100+ customers per day by hand-crafting a variety of coffee beverages including Long Blacks, Flat Whites, and Lattes. 

• Maintains cleanliness of work stations and ensures the coffee machine is always in working order by following the proper procedures. 

• Handles cash and contactless transactions for customers and upselling to the 200 Degrees Loyalty Scheme. 

Trainee Barista at Costa Coffee, Leeds June 2022 - May 2024

• Underwent training at the London School of Coffee as part of an upskilling scheme for our Costa Coffee branch.

• Served up to 80 customers per day, ensuring a 99% satisfaction rating at all times. 

• Learned about seasonal drinks and offers as well as how to sell these.

• Assisted with clean downs and closing at the end of each shift.

Education 

Leeds Met University  BA in Communications Management  2023 - Present 

London School of Coffee Entry-Level Barista Training  October 2022

Skills 

• Customer Service

• POS system knowledge

• Time management 

• Organisation 

• Coffee preparation 

• Latte art 

• Cleaning and maintenance 

What to include on your hospitality CV if you have no experience

Hospitality roles often make great first jobs. But what should you include on your CV if you have no work experience? In this situation, we recommend writing a functional CV that highlights your skills over your work history. Here are some of the points you may want to cover: 

• Soft skills: Highlight transferable skills that directly benefit the employer.

• Passion: What motivates you? When you’re trying to land your first role, showing passion for the company is the way to go. 

• Volunteer positions: Listing volunteer work on your hospitality CV can set you apart, showcasing your initiative and dedication.

• Clubs and organisations: Involvement in any sports teams, organisations, and clubs shows recruiters that you’re a real team player.

Keep in mind that everyone starts somewhere, so be honest about your lack of work experience. Use your personal statement and cover letter to highlight your motivations and career goals.

Write a hospitality CV that opens doors!

Ready to step into the industry? Remember to customise your CV to each job posting and follow our advice here. Creating an application that turns employers' heads is the first step towards getting your next big role in the hospitality sector.

Be sure you show your best on your hospitality CV. Get a free CV critique for expert feedback.

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