… Confidence for the main course, a side helping of flexibility, and people skills for dessert. Welcome to hospitality, an industry that serves up plenty of gains alongside the hard work

Some seem to be born with it, but for most, it requires careful nurturing over the years, with family members, teachers and friends all playing key roles in the process – confidence is one of those intangible and ever-shifting traits. Yet for many, including those with a supportive network, it remains elusive – an aspiration that lies just out of reach. Some try to find it by enrolling in classes or engaging in perilous pursuits. But if method sessions or skydiving aren’t your thing, there’s a more grounded option, and it’s served up in every restaurant, bar, hotel and conference centre in the land –a job in hospitality.

Agreed, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea – the hours are often unsociable, the tasks can be physical, and, well, there’s the public to deal with. But, whether it’s waiting tables, preparing coffees or organising an event, a role in the service industry can provide myriad opportunities to challenge yourself and build inner confidence. A progressive working environment is also required, but find the right fit, and you might discover it serves you well. And you’ll get the chance to fine-tune other skills, including those outlined here, along the way:

Communication

There’s no going solo. During a busy dinner service at a restaurant, for example, many tasks must be managed simultaneously between a few people. Diners are greeted at the door, orders taken promptly, in sequence and correctly. Requests are relayed effectively to the kitchen, tables cleared swiftly and without fuss, and customer comments handled politely and efficiently. For everything to run smoothly, clear communication between team members is essential.