Top Tips on Writing a Hospitality Job Application

When on an Australian Working Holiday Visa grabbing a job with a hospitality agency is the perfect fit to suit any wanderlust lifestyle! Firstly it’s a great way to build up your travel fund. On the whole, agency work tends to be better paid than regular employment. Secondly you will receive training and more often than not a uniform. So no need to drag your shirt and suite half way across the world! And last but not least, agency work gives you the ultimate flexibility to accommodate a perfectly balanced work and travel lifestyle!  

Sydney based, boutique hospitality agency, Black and White Waiters, specialise in providing waiting and bar personnel for the luxury, private and corporate events sectors. They’ve given our readers a sneak peak into how to draft the perfect application to get you through the door to interview.  

Match your Resume to the Job Description 

No two jobs should be applied for with an identical resume! Scrutinise the job advert, job description and company website. Identify the key words: skills, qualities and attributes, in addition to the requirements of the role. The more keywords that feature within your resume, the more likely it is that the recruiter or hiring manager will identify you as being a good fit for the role. And REMEMBER, if you’ve not worked in hospitality before, think about what skills sets relate to the job, such as ‘people skills’, ’organising’, ‘working in a team’, ‘corporate events’, etc. Make sure you stand out, as you will be going up against people who have more relative experience – especially in Australia where hospitality is seen as more of a long term, life career. 

Define your Attributes 

Now you’ve identified the keywords you need to match these to your specific attributes and characteristics to demonstrate that you are perfect for the role. If it helps, draw up a list of your qualifications, awards, work experience and skills and identify where the keywords can fit among these.  

A Focused Application 

A well-rounded application should include your resume and a cover letter, both of which should be concise, easy to read and relevant to the role. When writing your cover letter start by explaining exactly why you are the perfect candidate. Follow this by summarising your key skills and expertise, demonstrating suitability by drawing upon real examples. Don’t be afraid to use bullets points or subheadings to draw attention to specific skills. This will focus the hirer’s attention on those all-important areas.  

Follow this simple tips and fingers crossed you’ll smash your application and receive an invitation to interview. From here on it’s down to your wonderful self – be motivated, fresh, positive and vibrant! For more information on hospitality opportunities in Sydney, get in touch with Black and White Waiters today!