I started The Career Hotelier with the intended to guide and assist young hoteliers on their journey to success in our industry. The times and number of opportunities have never been better in the past 40 years. However, I was unaware that one of the main problem areas for young hoteliers, was and is to align and enhance their resume and CV writing skill sets.
Even though there is countless information available, they must remember to use it wisely and not remain stuck in the old-fashioned way of resume formatting and writing. I want to attempt to outline the most essential pointers anyone crafting his or her resume must pay attention to.
In today’s fast-paced recruitment landscape, a hiring manager allocates a mere handful of seconds to review a resume. Amid a stack of applications, it is imperative that your hotel management resume not only captivates but swiftly communicates your value. The format plays a big role in getting the most out of these 10 seconds, the recruiter will look at your resume.
Suppose you want to be discovered in the digital era. In that case, it is fundamentally important to have the ability to craft a resume and turn it into a marketing document, which impresses recruiters and HR managers but also keeps their attention on your paper. Make it easy for the recruiter by choosing the proper format. The one above is one of the many examples you find online. However you need to be critical and careful, Not all the information is correct. There is much confusion and dispute of what is right and what is wrong. I show you the best format later.
Resume or CV formats come in many shapes and formats and can be confusing. Ultimately everyone makes their personal choices. I found the traditional format to be most suitable; it is simple and easy to create with Word. (no need for Power Point) and it is easy for the recruiter to read. Remember, the amount of applications and resumes have multiplied; recruiters and HR professionals need more time to read those documents in detail. Even the use of ATS (Applicant Tracking System) has yet to help to gain valuable time in many cases. And with the traditional simple format you are almost always right. The average time a recruiter looks at a document has dwindled to 10-15 seconds. Some say even less. Candidates must keep this in mind.
Creating and editing a compelling resume or CV is something many young hoteliers, even older ones, must master. And yes, as a matter of fact, it does require some practice to be completely transparent.
Despite the hundreds, if not thousands, of free resources available online, writing a persuasive resume and cover letter remains challenging for many. Crafting a visually impeccable resume or CV enriched with pertinent information is paramount, and it does require some “deep diving” into the matter. Here are insights into what resonates with hiring managers and what’s better left behind.
Incorporate a Succinct Professional Summary
Distill your identity as a hospitality expert into three to five sentences concisely. Rather than expressing personal aspirations, emphasise your unique contributions and strengths to prospective employers. And overall objectives. In a way a mini skill and accomplishment profile. This is challenging for young hoteliers to show. However, there are examples in everyone’s formative years to provide the necessary content.
Present Relevant and Tailored Particulars
Meticulously select pertinent details, tailoring each resume to the specific role you pursue. Ensure accuracy in all information, including tenure durations, property names, sizes, and management affiliations. Should the part necessitate, illuminate distinctive responsibilities pertinent to that particular organization.
Limit Extensive Personal Narratives
Time constraints afflict hiring managers. Immersing them in an autobiography is counterproductive. Details such as high school achievements, hobbies, and personal affiliations are superfluous in the initial stages of the hiring process. The same is valid for personal information. Even though certain countries still include these details in their resumes, using them may become counterproductive as it takes time away from THE important CONTENT.
Exercise Prudence in Detailing Responsibilities
While elucidating your professional journey is pivotal, the excess isn’t advantageous. Responsibilities inherent to roles like Food and Beverage Manager, Chef de Party, and front office associate are well-known to hotel hiring managers. Thus, a comprehensive regurgitation of the job description needs to be revised.
Highlight Accomplishments
Demonstrate a track record of accomplishments. Your past achievements furnish potential employers with a preview of your prospective contributions. Every deed must be substantiated with quantifiable metrics or verifiable credentials.
Guard Against Misrepresentation
A resume’s foundation is truth. Misleading claims regarding experience will inevitably surface, tarnishing your professional integrity.
Conciseness is Key.
A hotel management resume is optimally confined to two pages. Share only relevant information aligned with the opportunity. Resist the urge to overcrowd with minuscule fonts, multiple columns, or fictitious margins. Be careful of decorative elements and fancy designs. These elaborate designs confuse not only the recruiter but also the ATS.
Prioritize Proofreading
A poorly written resume is an inconvenience for the hiring manager and a reflection of your professionalism. Thorough proofreading is non-negotiable.
Embrace the Digital Realm
Today’s recruitment landscape is predominantly digital. Crafting a polished online presence is imperative. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is current and aligned with your resume. Prepare your resume in diverse formats (PDF, Word) to ensure compatibility with varied application systems.
Looking at the above example focus on the format, not the content. It is not a hoteliers resume, however the format is ATS friendly and will serve you well throughout your career. Remember, one of my objectives in helping and guiding you is to save time for you and time equals money.
Once you master these elementary tools, you are ready to embark on your journey to secure the appropriate starting position. Remember, your resume is your first impression of a potential employer. Make it count by following these tips and presenting yourself in the best possible light.
I offer a complimentary resume assessment on my site. You need to register to upload your resume, and you can share your thoughts and questions with me. I will provide you with a professional and objective reply.
A final word: As a mentor I have seen that every career plan and career decision is completely unique and there is no “One Size Fits All” solution. I could provide my clients with workshops, webinars and courses, but have seen that personalized contact and assistance goes a long way. But if you are indeed looking for courses and seminars, I can strongly recommend Andrew La Cavita who is an authority in this field of resume writing and interview preparations. There are many others out there. However from my personal view, he stands out.
So, I wish you success in your journey and you know, if You need a consultation, contact me as always directly through my website.
Have. great day!
Helmut