Hospitality Trailblazers: 7 Tips for Women to Thrive in a Male-Dominated Industry
#FairKitchens
#FairKitchens is a global movement, fighting for a healthier and fairer hospitality industry
In the high-pressure world of hospitality where long hours and irregular shifts are the norm, women face extra challenges. They have to deal with sexism and discrimination in this male-dominated industry. Working mothers are also expected to juggle demanding work schedules with family responsibilities.
Seven resilient female FairKitchens ambassadors shared their insights on how to overcome these issues and thrive in this fast-paced world.?
Make the industry more inclusive?
We all need to work together to create an industry that is fair to everyone. Women, stand in your power and demand to be treated as equals. We should never tolerate sexism. Men, learn about the discrimination women face. Check your own bias and speak out if you see inappropriate behaviour in others. Leaders understand that the industry needs to be better adapted to women. Respect the time and talent of female workers, especially mothers.?
Clarisse Flon?
It’s possible to overcome imposter syndrome?
We all want to seem like we’re doing well. This is why it’s hard to open up when you struggle with confidence and imposter syndrome. Lots of things can make us feel like we are not good enough, from personal struggles to toxic kitchen environments and online criticism from strangers. If you feel yourself slipping into a dark place, make an effort to change your situation. Take time off and change jobs, if you need to. Reignite your passion by focusing on what you love about working in foodservice and what you are good at.?
Charlotte Vincent
2023 Finalist, National Chef of the Year
Put your health first with a positive work-life balance
Starting out in this industry, understand that the hours are long. Make friends in the industry who work similar shifts so you can spend free time together. Focus on prioritising a good work-life balance. Find time in your schedule for yourself and put your health and wellbeing first. Being a female chef is challenging, but fulfilling. Having the support of family and friends helps to make it easier.?
Amber Heaton?
Captain, Australian Youth Culinary Team??
Work towards success from the start of your career
Keep pushing and persevere through challenges when they arise. Strive for excellence. When things are hard, remember why you are passionate about this career. Inspire and encourage other women in hospitality. Help to make working environments inclusive and supportive. Stay humble and grounded when you achieve success and recognition in your career.
Cherish Finden
Pastry Chef & Bake Off: The Professionals Judge??
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Find a mentor and spend time networking?
Cultivating relationships through mentorship and networking is key in our industry. It's not just about culinary skills; effective communication and building connections pave the way for growth and success. You don’t necessarily need a mentor who is also in the kitchen. Sometimes it's leaders from your community that can guide you the best.?
Kimberly Brock Brown
Immediate Past President, American Culinary Federation
Believe in yourself and pursue your passion
Focus on what you can contribute as a young woman. We bring diverse perspectives and innovation. Perseverance, resilience and excellence are essential for success. Never stop growing. Develop your professional skills, seek mentors and network. Pursue your passion. Don’t let the challenges of this male-dominated industry hold you back. Believe in yourself.
Manylle Gabionza
Shift Leader, Joey Restaurants Yorkdale
Make time for yourself by saying no
Being a female leader in hospitality requires much time and attention. This can make finding balance difficult, but don’t let that hold you back. Learn to say no. Time for ourselves is non-negotiable. When we have clear boundaries, we can spend time with friends and family. Use a simple checklist to be efficient and get everything done. That way you don’t need to work overtime. Delegate tasks to your team to lighten your workload. This gives you space to work on new projects and develop your skills.
Karen Pillay
Owner, YSIM?
The world is evolving and women are demanding equality and inclusion. Through resilience and determination, they're reshaping the industry. We all have to contribute our voices and actions to create positive change. Women are a vital part of foodservice and we cannot afford to lose them.
If you want to create an equitable, inclusive kitchen that supports a diverse team, sign up for our free leadership training today. Our FairKitchens ambassadors and experts will teach you everything you need to know.?
Former People Services Exec, "Third Act" and all around GLEAMer. Passion for fitness, food, mentorship and ZUMBA?
11 个月#FairKitchens another great spotlight. The skill and acceptance of "saying no" is one that alludes females in particular. We are often trapped in the role of "nurturer" and therefore are prone to take on the load of others and be fearful of saying "no" as seen as pushback. Saying "no" when appropriate not only sets boundaries but creates one's own much needed empowerment and professional growth.