Career Pivots: Moving from FOH to BOH (and Vice Versa)
The hospitality industry is one of the few where career pivots are not only possible—they’re common. Whether you’re front-of-house (FOH) looking to move into the kitchen or a back-of-house (BOH) pro curious about guest-facing roles, there’s real opportunity in changing things up.
The key is knowing what you’re walking into—and how to make the most of your current skills.
FOH to BOH: Making the Jump to the Kitchen
If you’ve worked as a server, bartender, or host, you know how crucial communication and timing are. These soft skills translate surprisingly well into the kitchen—especially in high-volume operations where teamwork matters just as much as knife skills.
That said, BOH roles require specific technical abilities. Before making this career pivot, consider:
- Asking to shadow a kitchen shift or help with prep to get a feel for the workflow.
- Enrolling in a short culinary course to build basics—Culinary Agents has useful learning resources.
- Expressing your interest internally if you’re already working at a restaurant that promotes from within.
You don’t need to be a pro chef on day one—but showing initiative can go a long way.
BOH to FOH: Stepping Into Guest-Facing Roles
Maybe you’ve spent years behind the line and want something with more guest interaction or more flexible hours. Transitioning from BOH to FOH can feel like a big shift—but it’s absolutely doable.
Skills like consistency, urgency, and product knowledge will serve you well in roles like:
- Server or bartender
- FOH supervisor
- Event coordinator or catering manager
To prep for the shift, you might:
- Brush up on communication and conflict resolution skills with tools like MindTools.
- Ask to assist during pre-service meetings or guest events to get more comfortable in guest-facing settings.
Remember: confidence builds over time—and most FOH roles have training periods to help you adjust.
Transferable Skills Make It Possible
The secret to successful career pivots in hospitality? Leveraging the skills you already have. Time management, multi-tasking, service under pressure—these are valuable in any role.
And don’t forget, hiring managers love candidates who understand more than one side of the house. It shows empathy, versatility, and leadership potential.
How StaffedUp Can Help
If you’re ready for a career pivot in hospitality, StaffedUp makes it easier to find roles that align with your goals. Whether you’re moving from FOH to BOH or the other way around, we help you connect with employers who value your unique experience.
Apply quickly, track your progress, and take the next step toward a more fulfilling role—without the stress.
