How to Describe Food Service Experience on a Resume
When crafting a resume, it’s crucial to effectively communicate your skills and experiences, especially if you’re in the food service industry. Describing your food service experience in a way that highlights your strengths and accomplishments can make a significant difference in securing a job interview. Here’s a guide on how to describe your food service experience on a resume.
1. Start with a Strong Summary
Begin your resume with a concise summary that captures your food service experience and highlights your key skills. For example, “Experienced and passionate food service professional with over five years of experience in managing and executing high-quality dining experiences.”
2. List Relevant Job Titles and Duties
Under the summary, list your job titles in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position. Include the name of the restaurant or establishment, the dates of employment, and a brief description of your responsibilities. For instance:
– Restaurant Manager at The Gourmet Bistro (January 2018 – Present)
– Managed a team of 15 staff members, ensuring smooth operations and exceptional customer service.
– Developed and implemented new menu items, resulting in a 20% increase in sales.
– Oversaw inventory control, reducing food waste by 15%.
3. Emphasize Key Skills and Abilities
Within each job description, emphasize your key skills and abilities that are relevant to the food service industry. For example:
– Customer Service: Greeted and engaged with customers, ensuring their satisfaction and resolving any issues promptly.
– Team Leadership: Trained and supervised staff members, fostering a positive work environment and promoting teamwork.
– Menu Development: Collaborated with chefs to create innovative and profitable menu items.
– Inventory Management: Managed inventory levels, minimizing waste and optimizing costs.
4. Highlight Achievements and Metrics
Quantify your achievements with specific metrics and outcomes. For example:
– Reduced customer wait times by 25% through improved workflow and staff training.
– Increased monthly revenue by 10% through targeted marketing campaigns and promotions.
– Decreased food waste by 20% through better inventory management practices.
5. Include Certifications and Training
If you have any relevant certifications or training in the food service industry, such as ServSafe or food handler’s certification, include them in your resume. This demonstrates your commitment to professional development and compliance with industry standards.
6. Use Action Words and Descriptive Language
Use action words and descriptive language to make your resume more engaging and memorable. For example, instead of saying “I managed the team,” you could say “I effectively led a team of 15 staff members, fostering a positive work environment and driving exceptional customer service.”
By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling resume that showcases your food service experience and increases your chances of landing a job interview. Remember to tailor your resume to each job application, emphasizing the most relevant skills and experiences for each position.
