Harvey Nichols Restaurants, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Malmaison and Compass Group were just some of the big hospitality names at Caterer Jobs Live, held at the Novotel West London hotel on 7-8 October. They were offering careers advice, interviewing candidates and ensuring their names remain in the forefront of jobseekers' minds.
As it is the only careers event dedicated to the hospitality sector, attendance at Caterer Jobs Live is vital for anyone looking to join the industry, re-enter it or rise further up the ranks. "It's very helpful that agencies and companies get together in the one building, because it makes things easier for us jobseekers," said one satisfied visitor on the day.
"Caterer & Hotelkeeper is a good way to keep up with industry trends, and I have found all my jobs through the magazine," said another.
Finding new employees was not the only reason businesses took to the stands, however, with networking and public relations also significant incentives. "I think that every hotel employer should have a stand in the exhibition, even if they're not recruiting," said one exhibitor. "It's an opportunity for them to sell themselves as employers."
Top tips
The speakers appearing in the Live Theatre gave some top tips on getting a job.
- "Keep your CV to two pages. The average employer spends only 45 seconds reading a CV - every word must count." Jane Sunley, managing director, Learnpurple
- "You must be well informed, know where you want to go and demonstrate commitment." Gareth Edwards, operations director, Springboard UK
- "An interview is like the first night of a West End musical: you have to put on a good show." Emma Corlett, director of human resources, Four Seasons Hotel London
- "Be on time, look tidy and find out about the company before you arrive." Graeme Endacott, HR manager, Shepherd Neame
- "Smile - it increases your face value." Charles Boyd, managing director, Chester Boyd