Climbing the ladder: top tips to land your dream hospitality job
Looking for your next step in hospitality? Whether you’re starting out or looking to level up, landing your dream role takes planning, effort, and a little guidance. At Hospitality Jobs UK (HJUK), we’re passionate about helping candidates like you connect with the best opportunities in the industry. Here are some practical tips to help you stand out and secure the job you’ve been working towards.
1. Perfect your CV
Your CV is often your first chance to impress an employer. Make sure it’s tailored, professional and highlights your most relevant experience.
Quick tips:
- Focus on hospitality-specific roles and transferable skills like customer service or leadership.
- Keep it short and impactful - one to two pages is ideal.
- Use active, results-focused language like “managed,” “increased,” or “led.”
Bonus: Use our free CV templates to make a great first impression.
2. Set up job alerts
Why waste time endlessly scrolling when you can have jobs delivered straight to your inbox? Job alerts ensure you never miss an opportunity, giving you the edge in a competitive market.
Pro tip: Sign up for tailored job alerts on HJUK. Choose your preferences - location, job type, and industry - to see roles that match your ambitions.
3. Tailor your applications
Sending out generic applications won’t get you noticed. Personalise your CV and cover letter for each role, showing employers you’ve done your homework and know why you’d be a great fit.
What to include in your cover letter:
- Why you want to work for their business.
- How your skills match the job description, with specific examples.
- A polite call to action, like asking for an interview or further discussion.
Bonus: Read our guide to creating an outstanding cover letter here.
4. Be ready for interviews
Interviews can feel daunting, but with preparation, you’ll walk in feeling confident. Research the company, rehearse your answers and think about how your experience matches the role.
Common hospitality interview questions:
- How do you handle challenging customers?
- What makes you passionate about hospitality?
- How do you stay calm and focused during busy periods?
Pro tip: Check out our interview help articles for advice to help you shine.
5. Build your network
Hospitality thrives on relationships. Attend industry events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn and engage with employers on social media. Networking can lead to opportunities you might not find elsewhere.
Follow us: Stay connected with HJUK on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook for career insights and the latest job postings.
6. Stay positive and persistent
The job search can be tough, but don’t get discouraged. Keep refining your applications, learning from feedback and focusing on roles that excite you.
Remember: Every rejection brings you closer to the role that’s the perfect fit.
7. Explore the latest hospitality roles
At HJUK, we list hundreds of new roles every week across all areas of hospitality. From front-of-house to management, we’ve got opportunities to suit every stage of your career.
Browse roles in:
- Hotels
- Restaurants
- Pubs and bars
- Catering and events
- Leisure and tourism
Your dream hospitality job is closer than you think. By following these simple steps and staying proactive, you’ll be well on your way to climbing the ladder and finding your next big opportunity.
At HJUK, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Sign up for job alerts, apply for roles, and let’s find your future together.
