Category: Job Seeker

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!

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!

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.

Breaking into the hospitality industry without any experience might seem challenging, but it’s entirely possible. Many employers are willing to train the right candidates, especially if they have the right attitude, soft skills, and willingness to learn. Whether you’re looking to work in a restaurant, hotel, or event venue, here’s how to get started.

1. Highlight Your Transferable Skills

Even if you don’t have direct hospitality experience, chances are you’ve developed valuable skills in other jobs, school, or volunteer work. Employers in the industry look for:

• Customer service skills – Have you worked retail, helped customers, or handled complaints?
• Communication skills – Teamwork and clear communication are key in hospitality roles.
• Time management – Any role that required multitasking or working under pressure is relevant.

According to Harvard Business Review, soft skills like adaptability and problem-solving are just as critical as technical skills in customer-facing industries (source). Be sure to highlight these in your application.

2. Craft a Strong Resume and Cover Letter

Even if you’re applying without any experience, your resume and cover letter should showcase why you’re a great fit. A few tips:

• Keep it clean and simple – Focus on relevant skills, any related work, and a strong summary statement.
• Use action words – Instead of “helped customers,” say “assisted customers with inquiries, improving satisfaction by X%.”
• Customize your cover letter – Show enthusiasm for the hospitality industry and mention why you’re eager to learn.

For more guidance, Indeed offers resume-writing tips for those starting with little experience (source).

3. Get Certifications or Training

Some quick certifications can help boost your resume and show initiative:

• Food handler’s permit – Required for many restaurant jobs.
• TIPS certification – Teaches responsible alcohol service.
• Customer service or hospitality courses – Many are available online for free.

These small steps can make a big difference when applying without any experience.

4. Network and Apply Strategically

Many hospitality jobs are filled through word-of-mouth. Here’s how to increase your chances:

• Tell friends, family, and connections that you’re looking for a job.
• Apply in person – A good first impression can go a long way in hospitality.
• Use industry-specific job platforms like StaffedUp to find opportunities quickly.

5. Show Enthusiasm and Willingness to Learn

Many employers prioritize attitude over experience. When interviewing, express your eagerness to:

• Learn on the job
• Take on new challenges
• Be a team player

Hospitality is an industry where hard work and a positive attitude can lead to rapid growth.

Start Your Hospitality Career with StaffedUp

Landing a hospitality job without any experience is possible with the right approach. By showcasing transferable skills, networking, and demonstrating a willingness to learn, you can stand out to employers.

Ready to apply? StaffedUp makes it easy to connect with hospitality employers looking for fresh talent. Sign up today and take the first step toward your new career!

Landing a hospitality job often requires more than just a solid interview—many restaurants ask candidates to complete a trial shift before making a final hiring decision. This hands-on test helps employers evaluate your skills, work ethic, and ability to mesh with the team.

A trial shift can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you can turn it into an opportunity to prove you’re the perfect fit for the job. Here’s how to make the best impression and secure that job offer.

1. Understand What a Trial Shift Involves

A trial shift (sometimes called a working interview) is a short period—usually a few hours—where you perform job duties under supervision. Employers use it to assess:
✅ Your ability to handle tasks efficiently
✅ How well you interact with customers and team members
✅ Your attitude, work ethic, and ability to take direction

According to Culinary Agents, employers often look beyond technical skills during a trial shift—a positive attitude and adaptability matter just as much.

Before your shift, ask what will be expected of you. Will you be shadowing someone? Handling customers solo? Knowing what to expect will help you prepare accordingly.

2. Dress the Part & Bring the Essentials

First impressions count. Even if it’s just a trial shift, dress appropriately for the role. Some restaurants provide a uniform, but if not, stick to industry-appropriate attire:
👕 Black shirt and pants (or whatever is standard for the restaurant)
👟 Comfortable, non-slip shoes
📝 Notebook and pen (to take notes on procedures)

Arrive early to show you’re reliable, and bring any necessary documents like your ID, work authorization, or food handler’s permit if required.

3. Show Initiative & Be Coachable

Your employer isn’t expecting perfection during your trial shift, but they do want to see enthusiasm, effort, and a willingness to learn. Ways to stand out:
🔹 Greet guests warmly if you’re front of house
🔹 Help clean, restock, or assist without being asked
🔹 Ask thoughtful questions if unsure about a task

As The Balance Careers notes, showing a proactive attitude in a trial shift increases your chances of securing the role. Even if you make mistakes, managers will appreciate your eagerness to improve.

4. Be a Team Player

Hospitality is all about teamwork. During your trial shift, demonstrate that you can work well with others by:
✔ Introducing yourself to the staff
✔ Offering help when needed
✔ Showing respect for everyone, from dishwashers to managers

Employers want someone who contributes positively to the work environment. Even if you have strong technical skills, a bad attitude can cost you the job.

5. Follow Up & Express Gratitude

At the end of your trial shift, thank the manager and team for the opportunity. A quick follow-up email expressing your interest in the role and appreciation for the experience can leave a lasting impression.

If you enjoyed the experience and want the job, say so! Enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.

Find Your Next Hospitality Job Faster

Acing a trial shift can help you land your ideal hospitality job, but finding the right opportunity starts with applying to the right places. StaffedUp makes it easy to discover open positions, apply quickly, and connect with top hospitality employers. Create a free profile today at StaffedUp and take the next step in your career.

In today’s rapidly evolving and interconnected world, fostering diversity and promoting inclusion have become essential aspects of building successful organizations. Embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity in the hiring process is not only the right thing to do, but it also brings numerous benefits to companies. Here are some compelling reasons why diversity and inclusion are important in hiring:

Enhanced Innovation and Creativity

Diverse teams bring together individuals with different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. This diversity of thought and perspective fuels innovation and creativity within an organization. When employees from various backgrounds collaborate, they bring fresh ideas, challenge assumptions, and offer unique solutions to complex problems. This diverse range of ideas helps businesses stay innovative, adapt to changing markets, and seize new opportunities.

Broader Talent Pool

By actively seeking diversity in the hiring process, organizations have access to a broader talent pool. A diverse workforce brings together individuals with different skills, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity of talent opens up opportunities for organizations to tap into various markets, connect with diverse customer bases, and gain a competitive edge. It allows companies to attract and retain top talent from different backgrounds, nurturing a workforce that reflects the diversity of the world at large.

Improved Decision-Making

When teams are composed of individuals from various backgrounds and experiences, they are more likely to make well-rounded and informed decisions. Diversity brings a variety of perspectives into the decision-making process, challenging biases and promoting critical thinking. Different viewpoints help teams uncover blind spots, consider alternative options, and make more effective and balanced decisions. This leads to better outcomes and mitigates the risk of groupthink.

Better Problem-Solving

Diverse teams have the advantage of being able to approach problem-solving from multiple angles. With a range of backgrounds and experiences, team members can offer unique insights and alternative approaches to tackle challenges. This diversity of thought helps organizations identify creative solutions and find more effective ways of addressing complex problems. By embracing diversity in the hiring process, companies can build teams that are skilled at overcoming obstacles and driving innovation.

Increased Employee Engagement and Retention

When employees feel valued, respected, and included, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion in the hiring process, organizations create a positive work environment that promotes equality and offers opportunities for growth and development. This inclusive culture fosters a sense of belonging and encourages employees to bring their whole selves to work. As a result, employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention rates soar.

Reflecting the Community and Customers

Businesses operate within diverse communities and serve diverse customer bases. In order to connect with and understand these communities and customers, it is crucial to have a workforce that reflects that diversity. By hiring individuals from different backgrounds, organizations can better understand the needs and preferences of their target audience. This enables them to tailor their products or services to meet those needs effectively, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Positive Brand Image and Reputation

In today’s socially conscious world, consumers are increasingly placing importance on a company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. By prioritizing and actively promoting diversity in the hiring process, organizations enhance their brand image and reputation. Showing a genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion not only appeals to a broader customer base but also attracts top talent who appreciate and value an inclusive work environment.

In conclusion, embracing diversity and promoting inclusion in the hiring process is crucial for organizations to thrive in today’s globalized and dynamic business landscape. By fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, companies can enjoy benefits such as enhanced innovation, access to a broader talent pool, improved decision-making, and increased employee engagement. Moreover, diversity and inclusion enable organizations to reflect the communities they serve, positively impact their brand image, and build a brighter and more successful future.

In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environments, it’s not uncommon for employees to experience anxiety. Whether it’s caused by high workloads, tight deadlines, or simply the pressures of daily responsibilities, workplace anxiety can have a significant impact on both individual well-being and overall productivity. Fortunately, there are several employee engagement tools and techniques that can help manage and alleviate workplace anxiety. In this blog post, we will explore some effective strategies to support employees in navigating and minimizing workplace anxiety.

Recognizing the Signs of Workplace Anxiety

The first step in managing workplace anxiety is to recognize the signs and symptoms. Some common indicators of workplace anxiety include excessive worry, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, irritability, and changes in sleep patterns or appetite. It’s crucial for both individuals and managers to be aware of these signs and take them seriously.

Promoting a Supportive Work Environment

Creating a supportive work environment is key to managing workplace anxiety. Organizations can encourage open communication and foster a culture that prioritizes employee mental health and well-being. Managers should make themselves approachable and available to discuss any concerns or challenges employees may be facing. Providing resources for mental health support, such as counseling services or employee assistance programs, can also be beneficial.

Time Management and Prioritization

Often, workplace anxiety can stem from feeling overwhelmed by an excessive workload or the perception of not having enough time to complete tasks. Encouraging effective time management and prioritization skills can help employees better manage their workload and reduce anxiety. Techniques such as creating to-do lists, setting realistic goals, and breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can be effective in reducing stress and increasing productivity.

Developing Coping Mechanisms

Individuals should develop coping mechanisms to help manage workplace anxiety. Deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, and physical activities like stretching or walking during breaks can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Encouraging employees to take short breaks throughout the day to engage in these activities can have a positive impact on their well-being and overall productivity.

Building Support Networks

Building support networks is vital in managing workplace anxiety. Encouraging social connections and fostering a sense of camaraderie among coworkers can provide a support system when facing challenges or stressful situations. Encourage team-building activities, social events, or even the establishment of mentorship programs. This can help employees feel supported and less isolated, reducing workplace anxiety.

Seeking Professional Help

In severe cases, where workplace anxiety significantly impacts an individual’s well-being and ability to function, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Employers should ensure that avenues for professional counseling or therapy are available to employees who may require more specialized support. Reducing the stigma around seeking therapy and promoting mental health awareness is essential in fostering a healthy work environment.

Encouraging Work-Life Balance

Workplace anxiety can be exacerbated when there is a lack of work-life balance. Encouraging employees to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life is crucial in managing anxiety. Setting clear expectations around working hours, promoting flexible work arrangements, and encouraging employees to take time off when needed can help prevent burnout and reduce workplace anxiety.

Workplace anxiety is a reality for many individuals, but it doesn’t have to dominate their work lives. By recognizing the signs, promoting a supportive work environment, and implementing strategies such as time management techniques, coping mechanisms, and building support networks, employees can effectively manage workplace anxiety. Ultimately, prioritizing employee well-being and mental health not only leads to a happier and healthier workforce but also improves overall productivity and organizational success.