The Hospitality Hustle: More Than Aprons and Odd Hours

Hey there, fellow warriors of the nightshift! If you've questioned whether a career in hospitality is worth the crazy shifts, unsociable hours and grapping quick meals on the run? Let me debunk a few myths to encourage some up and coming professionals to join the ranks. I've been in the industry for a whopping 30 years, mainly in 5-star resorts operating 24/7/365.  It’s been a rollercoaster of camaraderie, late-night adventures and some questionable uniform choices.

First off, let's address the elephant in the room – the so-called "unsociable hours." Sure, the hospitality industry may not be your typical 9-to-5 gig, but who needs regular hours when you can experience the thrill of the midnight hustle? Forget repetitious jobs, no day or shift is the same in the dynamic hospitality industry.

The people are who make the job – my comrades in arms, my partners in culinary crime! Over the decades, my coworkers have become family.  My closest friends today are people that I have worked with.  I'm not just talking metaphorically here; I even found my “happily ever after” in the midst of bar chaos. At one resort, we had so many workplace weddings that our Food and Beverage department could've doubled as a wedding chapel. Beat that, Tinder!

Now, let's talk about the real treasure of the hospitality industry – the social scene. Picture this: the triumphant clink of glasses at the end of a shift, where you gather with your comrades to dissect the night's events and share life's highs and lows. And if you've successfully buddied up with the kitchen staff, you may be in for some delectable bites. Pro tip: always keep the chef caffeinated – they hold the keys to both a smoother work life and a well-fed belly!

Now, let's delve into the joyous occasions that make us temporarily question our life choices – Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and other family events. The sacrifice of working on these days are the sweet, sweet penalty rates and the leftover feast that meant no cooking when I arrived home.

And let's not forget the perks that extend beyond the warm and fuzzies. Hospitality opens doors to travel opportunities galore. Whether you're jet-setting around the world or exploring our beautiful nation, grab a backpack and let the adventures unfold. In my heyday, it was common for travelers to head to the UK and work in pubs.  Nowadays, tropical islands and the Great Barrier Reef beckon with discounted accommodation and underwater escapades on your days off.

Now, you might be wondering about the big bucks. Fear not! With penalty rates in your arsenal, the money in hospitality is nothing to scoff at. And with a plethora of career opportunities within the industry, you can climb the ladder while crafting a life filled with unforgettable moments and incredible connections.

So, to all you potential hospitality heroes out there, don't let the stereotypes fool you. The aprons may be stained, the hours may be odd, but the journey is nothing short of extraordinary. So, strap on that apron, pour yourself a cup of ambition and get ready for a ride that's as exciting and unpredictable as a chef's special of the day. Cheers to the hustle!

- by Anneliese Howard
  Blueprint Hospitality Trainer