Starting a new position is generally accompanied by a mixture of anticipation, excitement, and nerves. This is especially true when beginning a career in a new industry. Within the hospitality industry, the first days look different depending on the organization, type of role, and onboarding process. Some organizations offer full training days before job responsibilities commence. Others train on the job and throw new employees into the mix from the start.

However, preparations leading up to that first day look the same for many new team members. Preparing for the first day of work is critical for a number of reasons. It ensures you equip yourself with what is needed to be successful at the position straight away. Preparing also lets managers and organizational leaders know you are dedicated to achieving that success. It sets the stage for strong working relationships and opportunities to advance upward within the organization. The hospitality industry is well known for promoting from within when higher-level positions open up. Showing up ready and prepared the first day (and each day after) is crucial for those wanting to be considered when opportunities arise. 

Ensure Clarity Around Job Description and Requirements

A great initial step in preparation for the first day of work in a new role is re-reading over the position’s job description – noting any direction regarding work attire, where to report, etc. If anything is unclear at this point, reach out to the hiring manager to ensure everyone is on the same page on that first day. Review job responsibilities as well so you are clear on the specific duties expected of you. 

Job offers are often accompanied by offer letters or documentation regarding logistics like uniforms, time clock procedures, and other important information. Be sure to review these in detail as well prior to day one on the job. Noting any questions or concerns early in the onboarding process will keep expectations clear and opportunities for misunderstanding at a minimum. Also, acquiring a strong understanding of the role prior to starting makes initial training easier on supervisors – initiating a strong relationship from the start.

Pack What is Needed for First Day Success

The items new employees need to bring on day one vary, but taking the time to pack in advance will help ensure nothing is forgotten. Onboarding often first includes documentation, so bringing photo identification and other required documents is key for not extending the process longer than needed.  

While some organizations provide hospitality staff with meals during their shift, often it is left to the employees to bring food or purchase it during breaks. Packing a filling and nutritious meal helps keep energy high that first day.  

Another great item to pack is a way to take notes throughout the onboarding process. That may mean something as simple as a pen and notepad. Companies may allow employees to use mobile devices to take notes, but it’s best to plan for both. Having the ability to take notes is extremely valuable when starting a new role because the first day (and often the first week) involves a LOT of new information. Having something to refer back to is very helpful.

Fuel your Body and Mind with Adequate Sleep and Nutrition

Starting a new position is exciting, but can also be accompanied by nervousness – especially if this is your first role in the hospitality industry. Along with packing a lunch for the first day, fueling up the night and/or morning before that first shift is equally as important. Adults should aim for at least 7 hours of sleep if possible. More importantly, prioritize getting uninterrupted sleep. Turn phone notifications off during the night and limit screen time and caffeine before bed to better guarantee a restful sleep.

Getting adequate sleep sets your body up to be the best it can be – it absorbs new information and interacts with new coworkers and managers. Prioritize sleep by organizing your outfit and other essentials to bring the night before, avoiding the need to get up earlier than required to prepare for the day.

How to Find a Role in Hospitality

Securing a first day to prepare for starts with first finding a job within the industry. In many ways, preparing for a hospitality interview involves the same steps as preparing for the first day once in the role. Prepare by bringing questions and the required documentation, fuel yourself with good food and sleep the night before, and bring a way to take notes or jot down answers throughout the interview. That combined with the right qualifications and experience is sure to guarantee a job offer by the end of the interview. But how does one looking for a new role find opportunities to even secure those interviews?

Businesses within the hospitality industry use a variety of channels to attract potential applicants for open roles within their organization. When choosing a job board, prioritize finding one that is constantly updated and easy to navigate. This will ensure that you are viewing the most current opportunities out there and that when you find the perfect one for you, applying is easy. 

Our database of current opportunities includes roles all across the country in a variety of hospitality functions. From positions on the housekeeping team to management opportunities, there are options for all experience levels. For anyone looking to make a great first impression in the industry, the search starts here!