Month: April 2025

The Best Side Hustles for Hospitality Workers

Posted on by Billy Giordano

Working in the hospitality industry often means fluctuating schedules, seasonal slowdowns, and unpredictable shifts. If you’re looking for ways to boost your income, picking up a side hustle can be a great way to earn extra cash while keeping your main job as a priority.

The best side hustles for hospitality workers are flexible, skill-based, and easy to manage around your primary job. Here are some top options to consider.

1. Catering and Private Events

If you have experience in food service or bartending, catering gigs and private events can be an easy way to earn extra income. Many catering companies hire servers, bartenders, and event staff on an as-needed basis, making this a flexible side hustle.

✔ Look for catering companies that hire contract workers
✔ Advertise your bartending or serving skills for private parties
✔ Consider becoming a certified mixologist to increase your earning potential

A report by IBISWorld shows that the catering industry is projected to continue growing, providing steady demand for hospitality workers.

2. Freelance Food Photography or Blogging

If you have an eye for detail and enjoy capturing food presentation, consider food photography or blogging as a side hustle. Restaurants and food brands often seek high-quality images for their menus and social media pages.

📸 Offer your services to local restaurants for menu updates
📝 Start a food blog or Instagram page reviewing local spots
🎥 Try making short-form video content, like recipe tutorials or restaurant highlights

According to HubSpot, 82% of online traffic comes from video content, making food-related visuals a powerful tool for engagement.

3. Ride-Share or Delivery Driving

If you’re looking for a side gig with maximum flexibility, ride-share and food delivery apps like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash allow you to earn on your own schedule. Many hospitality workers use these platforms to make extra money during off-hours.

🚗 Use downtime between shifts for extra income
🍕 Deliver meals for local restaurants if you prefer not to drive passengers
🕒 Choose peak times, like weekends and late-night hours, to maximize earnings

4. Teaching Hospitality Skills Online

Have years of industry experience? Consider turning your knowledge into a side hustle by offering coaching, tutorials, or online classes.

💡 Offer bartending or service etiquette training
🎓 Tutor hospitality students preparing for certification exams
📹 Create online courses on platforms like Udemy or Skillshare

Teaching not only brings in extra income but also builds credibility in the industry.

5. Find Flexible Hospitality Gigs with StaffedUp

If you want to keep your side hustles in the hospitality industry, StaffedUp makes it easy to find flexible, short-term job opportunities. Whether you’re looking for part-time gigs, event staffing, or seasonal work, our platform helps you connect with employers quickly.

Start exploring opportunities today and take control of your income!

The Rise of Gig and Part-Time Hospitality Work: How to Adapt

Posted on by Billy Giordano

The hospitality industry has seen a major shift in recent years, with more workers opting for part-time hospitality roles instead of traditional full-time positions. Factors like flexible scheduling, the rise of gig work, and changing workforce expectations have made part-time roles more appealing to job seekers. According to a report by The Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 25% of hospitality workers in the U.S. are employed part-time.

For employers, adapting to this trend is essential. Offering flexibility, improving retention strategies, and optimizing the hiring process can help businesses thrive in this new landscape.

Why Workers Prefer Part-Time and Gig Hospitality Jobs

Many hospitality employees are drawn to part-time or gig work for several reasons:

  • Flexible Schedules: Students, parents, and those with side hustles value the ability to create their own work schedules.
  • Better Work-Life Balance: Part-time roles offer employees the chance to work without burnout, leading to improved job satisfaction.
  • Diverse Experience: Gig workers can take on multiple roles, gaining skills across different hospitality sectors.

A Gallup poll found that 36% of U.S. workers participate in the gig economy in some capacity, with hospitality being a leading sector.

How Employers Can Adapt to the Rise of Part-Time Hospitality Work

1. Offer Competitive Pay and Perks
Part-time hospitality workers value more than just an hourly wage. Consider offering perks such as:

  • Same-day or weekly pay options
  • Meal discounts or shift meals
  • Opportunities for skill-building and career advancement

Providing even small incentives can make your business more attractive to high-quality candidates.

2. Improve Scheduling Flexibility
A rigid schedule can push part-time employees away. Using scheduling software or allowing workers to swap shifts easily can make a big difference. Flexibility encourages loyalty, which reduces turnover.

3. Build a Reliable Talent Pool
Instead of scrambling to hire new employees for busy seasons, create a talent pipeline. Keep in touch with former part-time workers, maintain a strong employer brand, and use digital hiring platforms to streamline recruitment.

4. Utilize Technology for Hiring Efficiency
With more candidates seeking part-time roles, an easy application process is essential. Platforms like StaffedUp allow hospitality businesses to efficiently manage applications, communicate with candidates, and build a steady workforce without the hassle.

Future-Proof Your Hiring with StaffedUp

The rise of gig and part-time hospitality work isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of the industry. Businesses that embrace flexibility, competitive incentives, and modern hiring tools will have a strong advantage in attracting top talent.

At StaffedUp, we help hospitality businesses streamline hiring, making it easier than ever to build a strong, reliable team. Ready to optimize your hiring strategy? Visit StaffedUp.com today.

StaffedUp’s Role in Supporting the Post-Pandemic Recovery of Hospitality Businesses

Posted on by Billy Giordano

By: Editorialist Team

The COVID-19 pandemic left the hospitality industry reeling. Restaurants, hotels, and event venues faced unprecedented challenges, from prolonged closures to staffing shortages caused by mass layoffs and a reshaped labor market. As the world gradually returned to normal, hospitality businesses found themselves struggling to rebuild their teams and meet the surge in customer demand. In this landscape of recovery, StaffedUp emerged as a vital tool, offering solutions that not only helped businesses find employees but also adapt to the new realities of hiring.

A Labor Market in Flux

The pandemic fundamentally altered the hospitality workforce. Many employees who were laid off during lockdowns transitioned to other industries, while others hesitated to return due to health concerns or changing career priorities. For employers, the challenge was twofold: filling open positions quickly and attracting candidates in an increasingly competitive labor market.

Traditional hiring methods proved inadequate in this new environment. Generic job boards often failed to connect businesses with quality candidates, and manual hiring processes couldn’t keep pace with the urgent need for staff. StaffedUp addressed these challenges by providing tools specifically designed for the hospitality industry, streamlining the recruitment process and enabling businesses to rebuild their teams more effectively.

Speed and Efficiency in Hiring

One of the most significant challenges for hospitality businesses during the recovery was the sheer speed at which they needed to hire. As restrictions lifted and customer demand returned, many found themselves scrambling to staff up in time to avoid missed revenue opportunities. StaffedUp’s automated tools became a game-changer in this high-pressure environment.

Features like QR code scan-to-apply technology allowed businesses to connect with job seekers quickly and effortlessly. By placing QR codes on menus, receipts, or social media posts, restaurants and hotels could drive candidates directly to their customized hiring pages. These branded pages not only showcased the business’s culture and values but also enabled candidates to apply in just a few clicks.

Customization to Attract Quality Candidates

Attracting the right candidates in a competitive market required more than just speed—it required personalization. StaffedUp’s customizable hiring pages and tailored application questions allowed businesses to differentiate themselves and appeal to job seekers who aligned with their vision.

For example, a fine-dining restaurant looking for experienced servers could craft a hiring page that emphasized professionalism and attention to detail. Conversely, a casual café might focus on its friendly, community-oriented atmosphere. This level of customization helped businesses stand out and attract candidates who were not only qualified but also a cultural fit.

Addressing Turnover with Long-Term Solutions

High turnover has always been a challenge in the hospitality industry, and the post-pandemic recovery was no exception. Many businesses faced the added frustration of losing employees shortly after hiring, creating a costly and demoralizing cycle.

StaffedUp tackled this issue by enabling employers to focus on quality over quantity. The platform’s candidate ranking tools helped identify applicants who were most likely to succeed and stay in their roles long-term. Additionally, its user-friendly onboarding features streamlined the transition for new hires, improving their experience and increasing retention rates.

Empowering Businesses to Adapt

The pandemic also highlighted the importance of adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges. StaffedUp’s tools gave hospitality businesses the flexibility they needed to respond to changing circumstances. Whether it was scaling up quickly to meet peak demand or finding creative ways to reach job seekers, the platform provided solutions that aligned with each business’s unique needs.

For example, during periods of labor shortages, StaffedUp’s integration with job boards like Indeed and Google Jobs ensured that businesses could reach a broad audience. At the same time, its automation features reduced the time and effort required to manage the influx of applications, allowing employers to focus on strategic decision-making.

A Partner in Recovery

Throughout the recovery process, StaffedUp positioned itself not just as a tool but as a partner to hospitality businesses. By offering insights into hiring trends and best practices, the platform helped employers navigate a rapidly changing labor market with confidence. Its focus on long-term solutions ensured that businesses weren’t just hiring for today’s needs but building teams capable of sustaining success in the future.

Preparing for a Resilient Future

As the hospitality industry continues to rebuild and evolve, the lessons learned during the pandemic will shape its future. StaffedUp’s role in supporting businesses during this critical period highlights the importance of innovative, industry-specific solutions. By combining speed, customization, and strategic insights, the platform has proven itself to be an essential resource for hospitality employers.

For businesses looking to strengthen their operations in the wake of the pandemic, StaffedUp offers more than just a hiring solution—it offers a path to resilience. As the industry moves forward, tools like StaffedUp will remain indispensable, ensuring that hospitality businesses can adapt, thrive, and deliver the exceptional experiences their customers have come to expect.

How to Use Social Media to Land Your Next Hospitality Job

Posted on by Jeremy Phillips

Gone are the days when job applications were limited to paper resumes and in-person visits. Today, social media plays a major role in the hiring process, especially in the hospitality industry. Employers often check candidates’ online presence before making hiring decisions, so having a well-crafted digital footprint can set you apart.

Here’s how you can use social media to boost your chances of landing your next hospitality job.

1. Optimize Your Profiles for Job Searching

Before applying for jobs, take a moment to review and update your social media accounts. Employers often check platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to get a sense of who you are.

✅ Use a professional profile photo (even on casual platforms like Instagram)
✅ Update your bio or about section to mention your hospitality experience or career goals
✅ Keep public posts appropriate and professional—remove anything that could give employers a bad impression

A study by CareerBuilder found that 70% of employers check candidates’ social media profiles before hiring. Make sure your accounts reflect the best version of you!

2. Follow and Engage with Hospitality Employers

Many hospitality businesses post job openings, company updates, and hiring events on their social media pages. Following restaurants, hotels, and bars where you’d like to work can give you a competitive edge.

✔ Follow potential employers on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn
✔ Engage with their posts by liking, commenting, or sharing (but keep it professional)
✔ Check their job listings directly on social media—some businesses recruit only through these platforms

According to HospitalityNet, networking through online platforms is becoming one of the fastest ways to secure a job in the industry.

3. Showcase Your Skills and Experience

Your social media profiles can serve as an extension of your resume. Consider posting:

📸 Photos of past hospitality jobs, such as plating food, bartending, or setting up events
💬 A post about what you love about working in hospitality
🎥 Short videos demonstrating relevant skills, like customer service or drink-making

If you don’t have direct experience, use social media to highlight transferable skills, like teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.

4. Use Social Media to Apply for Jobs Faster

Many hospitality employers allow candidates to apply directly through social media platforms or message them for job openings. If you find a post about a job opportunity:

📩 Send a direct message expressing your interest
📝 Include a brief introduction about your experience and why you’re a good fit
🔗 If possible, link to your resume or online job profile

Find and Apply for Hospitality Jobs Faster with StaffedUp

Looking for an easier way to land your next hospitality job? StaffedUp helps you find openings, build a strong applicant profile, and apply with just a few clicks. Get started today at StaffedUp and take control of your job search!

Onboarding Tips to Ensure Your New Hires Stay

Posted on by Jeremy Phillips

The hospitality industry is fast-paced, and high turnover is a common challenge. A well-structured onboarding process can make all the difference in whether new hires feel engaged, confident, and ready to contribute—or whether they leave within their first few months. Research from SHRM suggests that effective onboarding can improve employee retention by up to 82%.

The goal of onboarding isn’t just paperwork and training—it’s about creating a welcoming environment, setting clear expectations, and making employees feel like part of the team from day one.

1. Start Before Day One

Onboarding doesn’t begin on an employee’s first day—it starts the moment they accept the job offer. Sending a welcome email, providing digital paperwork in advance, or even offering a pre-start checklist can help new hires feel prepared.

A study from Harvard Business Review found that companies with pre-boarding initiatives saw higher engagement levels and faster ramp-up times. Simple steps like introducing new hires to their team via email or sharing insights about company culture can make a big impact.

2. Make the First Day Engaging, Not Overwhelming

The first day sets the tone for an employee’s entire experience. While it’s important to cover essential policies and procedures, avoid overwhelming new hires with too much information at once. Instead, balance formal training with interactive experiences like:

  • A team lunch or coffee meet-up
  • Shadowing a seasoned employee
  • A hands-on introduction to the role

Encouraging social connections early on fosters a sense of belonging, which is key to long-term retention.

3. Provide Clear Training and Ongoing Support

New hires should have structured training that covers job-specific skills, customer service expectations, and company values. But training shouldn’t stop after the first week—ongoing support ensures employees continue growing in their roles.

Assigning a mentor or “buddy” can be an effective way to provide continuous guidance. Employees who feel supported are more likely to stay and contribute to a positive workplace culture.

4. Gather Feedback and Adjust

Every team is different, and onboarding should be an evolving process. Regularly checking in with new hires to gather feedback can help identify areas for improvement. Simple pulse surveys or one-on-one meetings can reveal insights into how to refine the experience for future employees.

5. Streamline the Process with StaffedUp

A great onboarding experience starts with a smooth hiring process. StaffedUp helps hospitality businesses attract, hire, and retain top talent by providing a seamless platform for applicant tracking and communication. When hiring is efficient, employers can focus on what truly matters—building a team that stays.

Want to improve your hospitality hiring process? Visit StaffedUp.com to learn more.

The ROI of Smart Hiring: How StaffedUp Saves Businesses Time and Money

Posted on by Billy Giordano

By: Adam | Time Business News

In the fast-paced world of hospitality, time and money are two of the most critical resources for business owners. Yet, hiring—the lifeblood of any successful restaurant or hospitality business—is often an area where inefficiencies lead to costly delays and high turnover rates. Enter StaffedUp, a platform designed specifically for the hospitality industry, which is helping business owners reclaim lost time and reduce hiring expenses. By offering an intuitive and tailored approach to recruitment, StaffedUp is proving that smart hiring can deliver measurable returns on investment.

The Hidden Costs of Inefficient Hiring

For restaurant and hospitality businesses, hiring the right staff is more than just filling open positions. It’s about finding individuals who align with the company’s values, contribute to team morale, and enhance the guest experience. However, traditional hiring methods often fall short. From time-consuming job postings to sifting through irrelevant applications, the process can drain resources and lead to costly missteps.

High employee turnover—an endemic issue in the hospitality industry—exacerbates the problem. Studies show that replacing an employee can cost up to twice their annual salary when factoring in recruitment, onboarding, and lost productivity. These hidden costs often go unnoticed, creating a significant financial burden for business owners.

StaffedUp was created to tackle these challenges head-on, streamlining the hiring process to save time and minimize expenses. By leveraging technology and insider knowledge of the industry, StaffedUp delivers solutions that make hiring more efficient and effective.

Streamlining Recruitment for Maximum Efficiency

What sets StaffedUp apart is its laser focus on the needs of the hospitality industry. Unlike generic hiring platforms, StaffedUp is tailored to address the unique challenges faced by restaurants, hotels, and other service-based businesses. With features designed to simplify and expedite the hiring process, the platform helps business owners save both time and money.

One of StaffedUp’s standout features is its customizable hiring pages, which allow businesses to showcase their brand and attract candidates who align with their culture. This targeted approach reduces the number of irrelevant applications, ensuring that hiring managers spend less time reviewing unqualified candidates. Automated job board integrations and pre-drafted job descriptions further streamline the process, enabling businesses to post openings and start receiving applications within minutes.

Additionally, StaffedUp incorporates ranking and evaluation tools that help businesses quickly identify top candidates. By automating time-intensive tasks, the platform frees up owners and managers to focus on other critical aspects of their operations.

Cutting Costs Without Cutting Corners

While the initial investment in hiring technology might seem daunting for some small business owners, the cost-saving potential of StaffedUp far outweighs the expense. By reducing the time spent on recruitment and improving the quality of hires, the platform significantly lowers turnover-related costs. Employers who use StaffedUp report shorter time-to-hire rates and higher retention among their staff, leading to greater overall savings.

StaffedUp’s efficiency extends to its innovative marketing tools, such as QR code scan-to-apply technology. By making it easier for job seekers to apply, businesses can fill positions faster, reducing the downtime associated with being understaffed. For an industry where every day without adequate staffing translates to lost revenue, these time savings are invaluable.

Real-World Impact on Business Success

The benefits of StaffedUp aren’t just theoretical—they’re being realized by businesses across the country. Restaurants that have adopted the platform report significant improvements in their hiring processes, with many owners noting a reduction in turnover and an increase in employee satisfaction. By empowering businesses to hire smarter, StaffedUp is helping to create more stable, productive workplaces.

This real-world impact is a testament to the platform’s design and philosophy. As co-founder Billy Giordano explains, “We built StaffedUp for us, by us. As restaurant owners, we knew what we needed in a hiring tool. That insight drives everything we do.” Giordano’s hands-on experience ensures that StaffedUp remains grounded in the realities of hospitality, continually adapting to meet the industry’s evolving needs.

Hiring Smarter for a Stronger Future

As businesses navigate the challenges of an unpredictable economy, tools like StaffedUp offer a way to stay competitive. By delivering a hiring solution that prioritizes efficiency and quality, the platform enables hospitality businesses to focus on growth instead of grappling with staffing shortages.

In the hospitality industry, where every second counts and every dollar matters, StaffedUp is proving that smart hiring is more than just a necessity—it’s a strategic advantage. For business owners looking to save time, cut costs, and build stronger teams, StaffedUp is the partner they’ve been waiting for.

Work at a Restaurant, Hotel, or Bar? Choosing the Right Fit

Posted on by Billy Giordano

Restaurants are ideal for people who enjoy a dynamic, high-energy environment. The pace is often quick, with busy shifts requiring efficiency, teamwork, and excellent customer service.

Best for You If:

✔ You enjoy interacting with guests regularly
✔ You work well under pressure during busy rushes
✔ You prefer flexible hours and shift-based scheduling

Key Challenges:

  • Peak dining hours can be stressful
  • Income depends on tips for many positions
  • Physical demands include long hours on your feet

A study by the National Restaurant Association shows that restaurants employ over 12 million people in the U.S., making them a major entry point into hospitality careers.

Working in a Hotel: Structured and Professional

Hotels offer a more structured work environment with a focus on guest experience over extended stays. Jobs range from front desk agents to housekeeping, event coordinators, and management roles.

Best for You If:

✔ You enjoy providing service in a professional setting
✔ You like having predictable shifts and schedules
✔ You’re interested in career growth opportunities within hospitality

Key Challenges:

  • Overnight or holiday shifts may be required
  • Some positions involve repetitive tasks
  • High guest expectations can add pressure

According to HospitalityNet, hotels offer strong career advancement opportunities, making them a great choice for those looking to build a long-term career in hospitality.

Working in a Bar: Social and Late-Night Energy

Bars provide a lively, social work environment where employees serve drinks, interact with customers, and handle high-energy crowds.

Best for You If:

✔ You’re a night owl and prefer late shifts
✔ You thrive in a high-energy, social atmosphere
✔ You’re comfortable multitasking and handling fast orders

Key Challenges:

  • Late hours may not suit everyone’s schedule
  • Handling intoxicated customers can be challenging
  • Work is heavily dependent on tips

How to Find the Right Fit for You

Each hospitality job has its own culture and demands. When choosing the right fit, consider:
✅ Your work style and personality
✅ Your schedule preferences
✅ Your long-term career goals

Not sure where to start? StaffedUp makes it easy to explore hospitality jobs and find one that matches your strengths. Whether you’re looking for restaurant, hotel, or bar work, our platform connects you with employers hiring now. Find your perfect fit today!

How to Improve Your Online Employer Reputation

Posted on by Jeremy Phillips

In the hospitality industry, job seekers don’t just look at job postings—they research potential employers before applying. A company’s employer reputation can influence whether a candidate chooses to work there or looks elsewhere. According to Glassdoor, 86% of job seekers check company reviews before submitting an application.

A positive employer reputation not only helps attract more applicants but also leads to higher employee retention and better workplace morale. Businesses that focus on their reputation benefit from a stronger, more engaged workforce.

1. Build a Strong Online Presence

An employer’s online presence is often the first impression for job seekers. Businesses should ensure their website, social media, and employer review sites accurately reflect their brand and workplace culture. Keeping company profiles updated, sharing engaging content about the work environment, and responding to reviews professionally can all make a difference. Job seekers appreciate transparency, and active engagement on these platforms signals that an employer values its employees.

Research from Harvard Business Review suggests that businesses with a well-managed online presence are more likely to attract top-tier applicants. Addressing feedback, whether positive or negative, also demonstrates a commitment to improving the employee experience.

2. Empower Employees to Share Their Experiences

Current employees play a crucial role in shaping an employer’s reputation. Job seekers trust feedback from employees more than corporate messaging, making internal advocacy an important part of building credibility. Encouraging employees to share their experiences on employer rating sites or social media can provide a more authentic picture of the workplace.

Employee referrals are another way to strengthen an employer brand. When employees actively recommend their workplace to others, it signals a positive work environment and attracts like-minded candidates who are likely to be a good cultural fit.

3. Focus on Workplace Culture

A strong reputation starts from within. Businesses that prioritize employee well-being naturally earn positive feedback. Offering competitive wages, professional development opportunities, and fostering an inclusive, respectful work environment all contribute to better employer branding.

Word-of-mouth plays a significant role in hospitality hiring, and companies known for treating employees well often find that their reputation precedes them. A well-managed team with high morale will naturally share positive experiences, further reinforcing the company’s image as a great place to work.

4. Use StaffedUp to Maximize Hiring Potential

A well-maintained employer reputation attracts great candidates, but having an efficient hiring process ensures that businesses secure top talent. StaffedUp helps hospitality businesses streamline hiring with a professional platform designed to highlight company culture and simplify applicant tracking.

By combining a strong reputation with the right hiring tools, hospitality employers can stand out in a competitive market. Learn how StaffedUp can support your hiring needs.

The Evolution of StaffedUp: From Startup Weekend Winner to Industry Leader

Posted on by Billy Giordano

Innovation often begins with a simple idea and the determination to solve a real-world problem. For StaffedUp, a platform revolutionizing hiring in the hospitality industry, that journey started in 2017 at Startup Weekend Columbia. From its inception as an idea pitched on a whim to becoming a nationally recognized leader in hospitality hiring solutions, StaffedUp’s evolution is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and a deep understanding of the industry it serves.

The Spark: Turning an Idea into Reality

The story of StaffedUp begins with its co-founders, including Billy Giordano, a seasoned restaurant owner who had experienced the frustrations of traditional hiring firsthand. At the time, Giordano was juggling the demands of running Room 38 Restaurant & Lounge, a thriving business he had built from the ground up. Like many in the hospitality industry, he struggled with high turnover rates and the inefficiency of generic hiring solutions.

Startup Weekend Columbia provided the perfect opportunity to explore an idea that had been brewing: a hiring platform designed specifically for the unique needs of hospitality businesses. Entering the competition at the last minute, Giordano and his co-founder not only made it to the final round but also won the entire event. This victory validated their concept and gave them the confidence to take StaffedUp from idea to reality.

Navigating Early Challenges

The early days of StaffedUp were marked by both excitement and challenges. As non-technical founders, Giordano and his team faced a steep learning curve in building a tech platform. Missteps with development teams led to multiple rebuilds of the platform, each iteration improving on the last. These setbacks, though costly and time-consuming, taught the team valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of getting it right.

Through creativity and resourcefulness, the co-founders secured partnerships and funding to keep their vision alive. Giordano’s hands-on approach and deep industry knowledge ensured that every challenge became an opportunity to refine StaffedUp’s features, making it more user-friendly and effective.

Growing Into a Trusted Solution

As StaffedUp evolved, so did its reputation. The platform quickly gained traction in the hospitality industry for its ability to address real-world hiring challenges. Its features, such as branded hiring pages, automated candidate ranking, and QR code scan-to-apply technology, resonated with business owners tired of the inefficiencies of traditional job boards.

By leveraging their firsthand experience as hospitality professionals, the founders created a platform that felt intuitive and practical. Giordano and his team actively used StaffedUp in their own businesses, constantly gathering feedback and refining the product to ensure it met the needs of its users. This commitment to improvement helped StaffedUp transition from a startup to a trusted leader in the industry.

Recognition and Impact

StaffedUp’s impact on the hospitality sector has not gone unnoticed. The platform has been recognized as one of the top hospitality staffing solutions in the industry, earning accolades for its innovative approach and tangible results. Restaurants and hotels across the country have reported faster hiring times, improved candidate quality, and reduced turnover thanks to StaffedUp’s tools.

But beyond the numbers, StaffedUp has become a symbol of what’s possible when industry insiders take the lead in solving their own challenges. Its “for us, by us” ethos continues to resonate with business owners who see StaffedUp as more than just a tool—it’s a partner in their success.

Looking Ahead: The Future of StaffedUp

While StaffedUp has already made a significant impact, the journey is far from over. Giordano and his team are focused on expanding the platform’s reach, ensuring that more businesses in the hospitality industry can benefit from its solutions. Future plans include integrating even more advanced features and exploring ways to support both sides of the hiring equation—employers and job seekers alike.

StaffedUp’s evolution from a Startup Weekend winner to an industry leader is a testament to the power of innovation, resilience, and a clear understanding of user needs. For Giordano and his team, the mission is clear: to continue revolutionizing hospitality hiring and empowering businesses to build the teams they need to thrive.

A Legacy of Innovation

The story of StaffedUp is one of transformation—of an idea growing into a platform that is changing how the hospitality industry approaches hiring. By focusing on the real challenges faced by business owners, StaffedUp has carved out a space for itself as a trusted leader and an essential tool.

For business owners struggling to find the right hires, StaffedUp offers more than just a solution—it offers hope. It’s a reminder that even in an industry as fast-paced and demanding as hospitality, the right tools and vision can create lasting change. From its humble beginnings at a weekend competition to its position as an industry leader, StaffedUp’s journey is proof that great things can come from small beginnings.

Why Soft Skills Matter More Than Experience in Hospitality Jobs

Posted on by Jeremy Phillips

When it comes to landing a job in hospitality, experience is valuable—but it’s not everything. Many hiring managers prioritize soft skills over technical experience, especially in customer-facing roles. If you’re looking to break into the industry or level up your career, developing the right interpersonal skills can make all the difference.

What Are Soft Skills and Why Do They Matter?

Unlike technical skills, soft skills focus on how you interact with others, solve problems, and adapt to challenges. In hospitality, where guest experience is key, these abilities often determine who thrives in fast-paced, high-energy environments. According to Harvard Business School, companies increasingly seek candidates with strong emotional intelligence and adaptability because these traits contribute to long-term success.

Top Soft Skills Employers Look For in Hospitality

If you’re applying for hospitality jobs, focus on highlighting these essential soft skills in your applications and interviews.

1. Communication and Active Listening

Clear and friendly communication is the foundation of excellent service. Whether you’re taking orders, handling guest complaints, or coordinating with your team, strong verbal and non-verbal communication helps create a seamless customer experience.

  • Listen attentively to guests and coworkers
  • Speak clearly and professionally
  • Stay positive, even in stressful situations

2. Adaptability and Problem-Solving

No two shifts are the same in hospitality. A sudden influx of guests, a last-minute menu change, or an unexpected staffing shortage requires quick thinking and adaptability. Employers value candidates who:

  • Stay calm under pressure
  • Think on their feet to resolve issues
  • Adjust to changes with a positive attitude

Forbes highlights adaptability as one of the most critical skills in the modern workforce, as it helps employees navigate unpredictable situations.

3. Teamwork and Collaboration

Hospitality jobs are rarely solo gigs. Whether you’re in a restaurant, hotel, or event venue, you’ll need to work closely with coworkers to deliver excellent service. Being a strong team player means:

  • Offering help when needed
  • Respecting different roles within the team
  • Communicating effectively to keep operations smooth

4. Emotional Intelligence and Patience

Handling guests—especially difficult ones—requires patience and empathy. Hospitality workers who can read situations, manage their emotions, and respond with kindness are more likely to create positive guest experiences.

Soft Skills Can Help You Land a Job—Even Without Experience

If you’re new to the hospitality industry and worried about a lack of experience, don’t stress. Employers often prefer a candidate with great soft skills who can be trained on technical aspects over someone with experience but poor people skills.

That’s where StaffedUp comes in. Our platform connects job seekers with top hospitality employers who value personality, adaptability, and a strong work ethic. Ready to start your career? Visit StaffedUp today and find a job that fits your strengths.

What Makes a Great Restaurant Manager? Key Traits to Look For

Posted on by Billy Giordano

A great restaurant manager is the backbone of any successful hospitality business. They juggle customer satisfaction, employee management, and operational efficiency—all while keeping their cool under pressure. In an industry where turnover is high and competition is fierce, having the right person in this role can make all the difference.

But what exactly makes a great restaurant manager? Here are the key traits to look for when hiring your next leader.

1. Strong Leadership & Communication Skills

Great managers don’t just give orders—they inspire their team. According to a study from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, effective leadership in hospitality directly correlates with higher employee engagement and lower turnover.

What to look for:
✔ Ability to resolve conflicts calmly and fairly
✔ Encourages teamwork and motivates staff
✔ Communicates clearly with both employees and guests

2. Deep Understanding of Restaurant Operations

A restaurant manager should have a strong grasp of front- and back-of-house operations. From inventory control to food safety regulations, their knowledge ensures smooth day-to-day functions.

Look for candidates who:
✔ Have prior experience in multiple hospitality roles
✔ Understand financial reports and cost management
✔ Can adapt to industry trends and challenges

3. Problem-Solving Under Pressure

No shift is ever predictable in a restaurant. Whether it’s a kitchen mishap, an overbooked dining room, or an unhappy guest, a great restaurant manager can handle unexpected challenges with grace.

According to Harvard Business Review, the ability to make quick, strategic decisions is a key trait of high-performing leaders in fast-paced environments.

4. Customer Service Excellence

Hospitality is all about creating memorable experiences for guests. A great manager ensures that service standards are consistently met, leading to repeat customers and positive reviews.

✔ Handles guest complaints professionally
✔ Understands the importance of online reviews and reputation management
✔ Leads by example in delivering top-tier hospitality

5. Hiring and Retaining Top Talent

A restaurant is only as good as its staff. The best managers know how to hire the right people, train them effectively, and keep them engaged.

This is where StaffedUp can help. Our platform simplifies the hiring process by allowing hospitality businesses to find, track, and onboard top talent with ease. If you’re looking for the next great restaurant manager, let StaffedUp streamline your search.

Ready to build a winning team?

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How does StaffedUp find applicants for me?

    StaffedUp leverages our extensive talent networks, optimized SEO, external automated job board posting such as Indeed and Google Jobs, social media integrations, QR code scan to apply marketing, and by leveraging your website and brand to drive genuinely motivated applicants for hire.

  • Can I customize StaffedUp to hire the way I need to?

    100% your can. We offer complete customization to fit your exact needs. Create custom company recruitment pages, company culture, jobs, application questions, and customized automated or one click messaging to expedite engagement.

  • How long does it take to get set up?

    How's a few minutes sound? Our quick startup tools are the easiest thing you'll use all year! We provide pre-drafted job descriptions & application questions, & even wrote your application responses for you! Need a hand? We'll teach you everything you need to know in 10 minutes. Did we mention it's easy?

  • Can I cancel anytime?

    Yep! For paid accounts we simply ask for 15 day notice before you next bill. Need to chat with us? Use the help desk in your account or email us at support@staffedup.com.

  • What is the WOTC (Work Opportunity Tax Credit)?

    WOTC (Work Opportunity Tax Credit) is a federal tax credit available to business employers, both large and small. The credits are designed to offset Federal income tax liabilities. When the WOTC program is executed the right way, employers can capture enough tax credits to significantly reduce, or even eliminate, their Federal income tax liabilities. (And if your business was formed using a flow-through-entity, like a S-corp or LLC, then the credits could flow-through to the owner’s K-1).

  • How can WOTC impact my business?

    Executing the WOTC program is simple and easy with the right provider. We’ll screen your applicants to determine if they satisfy one of nine qualifying criteria. If so, our team of tax credit experts work with specific government agencies, behind the scenes, to capture the tax credits for you. Once captured, tax credits can be used to eliminate Federal income tax liabilities and thus improve cash flow for stakeholders and the business.

  • DID WE JUST BECOME BEST FRIENDS?

    Duh! We built this for you, because we are you! Your success in hiring is the only thing we care about. Anything you need, any time, we're always here, we'll always listen!