How can you use your hospitality network to find job opportunities?

Nowadays, in our industry, most managers rely on recommendations when hiring a new employee, so a strong network is crucial if you want to boost your career. Luckily, our area of business involves quite a lot of human interaction and customer relationships. So here is my advice: - Always treat everybody with respect and be polite. - Never ask for favors if you don't have a certain relationship established. - Before you ask for favors, could you bring value by leveraging your skills?

Customize your outreach for each contact, sharing updates and celebrating their successes. Approach seeking advice with authenticity, posing thoughtful questions that reflect your admiration for their expertise. Be ready to offer assistance and reciprocate support. Schedule virtual coffee chats or attend industry events together to deepen connections. Consistent check-ins build relationships that could pave the way for meaningful job opportunities.

Networking can open doors your degree never can. It's important to network with a broad range of individuals and organisations. You simply don't know who can connect you with your ideal contact.

Effective communication is your most valuable skill, especially in the hospitality industry. If you want to expand your network considerably, aside from your daily interactions, you must be active in masterclasses, seminars, guest shifts, community meetings, and tastings. Sometimes, it can be challenging because you want to stay in your comfort zone and talk only with those you know. Still, as a rule of thumb, if you attend an event and meet only one "stranger," you will see a significant increase in your network and personal brand.

Spruce up your LinkedIn with a detailed summary that spotlights your key connections. Request testimonials from network members, highlighting your collective successes. Showcase collaborative projects that demonstrate the impact of your network. Keep your network engaged by sharing industry insights and tagging members. Feature your active participation in industry groups. Boost your professional image by putting the spotlight on your network's strength.

To leverage your hospitality network for job opportunities, attend industry events, connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, and participate in online forums or groups. Engage in conversations, express your interests, and inquire about potential openings. Networking often plays a crucial role in discovering hidden job opportunities within the hospitality sector.

Never EVER ask for a favor before forming a relationship of some kind or after helping them. Example: I have my own personal “board of directors” with some being prominent figures in travel and I haven’t asked for a favor. One of my mentors and favorite people ever told me: “Build Relationships, Prove Worth, Use Inner Fire Later”

Stay updated on industry trends to guide your networking approach. Reach out to experienced professionals for valuable guidance. Cultivate reciprocity by actively supporting your network. Ensure your online presence reflects your career objectives. Stay competitive by continually enhancing your skill set. Expand your network by participating in meaningful online conversations. Navigate your professional path thoughtfully with these strategic considerations.