Roles and responsibilities
A Head Hostess plays a pivotal role in the hospitality industry, often acting as the face of a restaurant, hotel, or event venue. This role requires a blend of leadership, organizational skills, and excellent customer service to ensure smooth operations and an exceptional guest experience. Below is a comprehensive list of skills and qualities for a Head Hostess role:
Key Skills for a Head Hostess
1. Leadership Skills
- Team Management: Supervising, training, and motivating the hosting team.
- Conflict Resolution: Addressing disputes among staff or between guests and staff.
- Delegation: Assigning tasks effectively to ensure smooth operations.
2. Communication Skills
- Verbal Communication: Speaking clearly and professionally to guests and team members.
- Non-Verbal Communication: Using body language and demeanor to convey professionalism and approachability.
- Active Listening: Understanding guest needs and team concerns.
3. Customer Service
- Guest Engagement: Creating a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring guest satisfaction.
- Problem-Solving: Handling complaints and resolving guest issues promptly.
- Personalization: Remembering regular guests’ preferences and making tailored recommendations.
4. Organizational Skills
- Reservations Management: Using software or systems to manage guest bookings.
- Seating Coordination: Managing the seating plan for optimal table turnover and guest comfort.
- Event Coordination: Assisting in planning and executing special events or VIP services.
5. Interpersonal Skills
- Empathy: Understanding guest and staff needs to foster positive interactions.
- Team Collaboration: Working closely with servers, bartenders, and kitchen staff for seamless service.
- Charisma: Exuding confidence and friendliness to create a memorable first impression.
6. Professionalism
- Reliability: Being punctual and dependable in managing operations.
- Appearance: Maintaining a polished, professional look that aligns with the establishment’s standards.
- Discretion: Handling guest concerns or sensitive information with confidentiality.
7. Technical Skills
- Reservation Systems: Proficiency in using tools like OpenTable, Resy, or similar platforms.
- POS Systems: Familiarity with point-of-sale systems to support the hosting and service teams.
- Multitasking: Managing multiple tasks under pressure without compromising quality.
8. Attention to Detail
- Table Settings: Ensuring that the ambiance meets or exceeds guest expectations.
- Guest Preferences: Keeping track of specific requests or special occasions.
- Cleanliness Checks: Ensuring the front-of-house area is always presentable.
9. Sales and Upselling
- Menu Knowledge: Recommending dishes, drinks, or specials to guests.
- Upselling Techniques: Encouraging guests to try premium offerings or add-ons.
- Promotional Skills: Promoting events or special menus effectively.
10. Cultural Awareness and Language Skills
- Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and catering to diverse guest needs.
- Multilingual Skills: Communicating effectively with international guests (if applicable).
Desired candidate profile
As a Head Hostess at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal you will use your charm to carry out a natural conversation with guests without sounding scripted or intrusive. You will demonstrate your effective communication skills, customer service skills and your efficiency as a team player by working closely with the Bar and Dining area team. You will have the opportunity to be part of the best restaurants, bars and pubs and showcase your ability to work positively in a fast-paced environment. We also make sure you have the right support with the right training and leadership along the way. You will attend both external and internal training courses, developing your skills and fine-tuning your food and beverage acumen.
About You
Ideally, we’d love you to have an international exposure in related field or either 2-year experience worked in a luxury hotel and restaurant. Atlantis, Dubai, offers an unbeatable opportunity to grow and develop in your career right in the mix of a continuously developing city and a diverse range of cultures.