登录查看更多内容

Last updated on 2024年7月26日

Here's how you can transition from a banquet server to a catering sales manager in the hospitality industry.

由人工智能和领英社区提供技术支持

Transitioning from a banquet server to a catering sales manager can be a rewarding career move in the hospitality industry. It requires not only a deep understanding of event planning and customer service but also a strategic approach to sales and business development. As a banquet server, you've already honed your customer service skills and have a solid grasp of the fast-paced environment of events. Now, it's time to leverage that experience and take on new challenges that come with being a catering sales manager. This role involves not just overseeing the execution of events but also attracting new business, negotiating contracts, and maintaining client relationships, all of which are crucial for the growth of any hospitality enterprise.

此文章中的业界达人

由社区从 2 条内容中精选。了解更多

Robin Killett, CIS

Killett Hospitality Consultants LLC. I’m passionate about the hospitality industry and want to share my experience and…

1 Acquire Skills

To make the leap from banquet server to catering sales manager, you need to expand your skill set beyond the dining room. Familiarize yourself with sales techniques and client management strategies. You could take courses in sales, marketing, and business communication. Understanding the financial aspects of catering, such as cost control and pricing strategies, is also vital. Networking within the industry can provide valuable insights and opportunities, so attend trade shows and join professional associations. These steps will not only enhance your resume but also give you the confidence to handle the multifaceted responsibilities of a catering sales manager.

添加您的观点

加载更多内容

2 Gain Experience

While serving banquets, observe the sales team and ask to assist with some of their tasks. Offer to help with site visits or menu planning sessions to understand the sales process and client interaction better. You could also request to shadow a catering sales manager or assist with preparing sales materials. This hands-on experience will not only provide practical knowledge but also demonstrate your initiative to superiors. It's a way to show that you're eager to go above and beyond your current role and are preparing for the next step in your career.

添加您的观点

3 Build Relationships

In hospitality, relationships are everything. Start building a strong network by connecting with colleagues, clients, and vendors. Your aim should be to become a familiar face that people know and trust. Engage with guests during events to understand their needs and preferences, which is invaluable information for a future sales manager. Remembering a client's favorite dish or a particular event preference can go a long way in establishing rapport. These relationships could lead to direct sales opportunities or referrals, which are gold in the catering business.

添加您的观点

4 Learn Sales

Transitioning to a sales role means understanding the art of negotiation and persuasion. Start by learning the basics of sales psychology and how to create compelling proposals. Practice by upselling as a banquet server or suggesting additional services that could enhance an event. This will help you develop the confidence to pitch ideas and negotiate deals effectively. Additionally, understanding the competitive landscape of the hospitality industry will enable you to position your catering services advantageously in the market.

添加您的观点

5 Embrace Technology

Catering sales managers often use customer relationship management (CRM) systems and event management software to streamline their work. Get comfortable with technology by exploring software commonly used in the industry. Learn how to manage client databases, create event orders, and use digital tools for floor plan creation. Being tech-savvy will not only improve your efficiency but also demonstrate that you're prepared for the modern demands of the role.

添加您的观点

6 Advance Career

Finally, consider formal education or certification that could bolster your qualifications for a catering sales manager position. A degree in hospitality management or a certification in event planning could be advantageous. Keep an eye on internal job postings and be ready to apply for sales or event planning roles that may serve as stepping stones towards your goal. Remember, every additional responsibility you take on is a learning opportunity and brings you one step closer to your desired career transition.

添加您的观点

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

添加您的观点

Robin Killett, CIS

Killett Hospitality Consultants LLC. I’m passionate about the hospitality industry and want to share my experience and skills with the next generation.
举报内容
All resorts want to hire people with operations background when possible. While working as a banquet server you should memorize the banquet inventory (ex: table sizes, chairs styles and quantities, available linens, in-house decor) set-up styles, maximum capacities for each venue, and get to know the chefs, captains, event managers, and av/production team. The resort’s staff will be your biggest advocates when it comes time to ask to be considered for a sales position.

已翻译

赞

Hospitality

+ 关注

给文章评分

我们借助人工智能创建了此文章。您认为这篇文章怎么样？

很棒不太好

举报此文章

查看全部

Here's how you can transition from a banquet server to a catering sales manager in the hospitality industry.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Acquire Skills

2 Gain Experience

3 Build Relationships

4 Learn Sales

5 Embrace Technology

6 Advance Career

7 Here’s what else to consider

Hospitality

给文章评分

感谢您的反馈

更多Hospitality相关文章

更多相关阅读内容