Job Description

Position Overview
The Hostess is responsible for providing a welcoming and efficient first impression to guests as they arrive at the restaurant. This role involves greeting and seating guests, managing reservations, and ensuring smooth front-of-house operations. A Hostess plays a critical role in the overall guest experience by ensuring that customers feel comfortable and well cared for from the moment they walk through the door.

Key Responsibilities

• Greeting Guests:
• Greet all arriving guests with a warm and friendly attitude.
• Create a positive first impression by offering exceptional service and hospitality.
• Managing Reservations:
• Answer phone calls, take reservations, and assist with managing the reservation system.
• Monitor the reservation book and ensure guests are seated in a timely manner.
• Seating Guests:
• Escort guests to their tables, ensuring they are seated promptly and comfortably.
• Ensure the dining area is organized and tables are set up properly.
• Customer Service:
• Address guest inquiries and concerns in a courteous and professional manner.
• Provide information on the menu, wait times, and daily specials if needed.
• Managing Waitlists:
• Manage waiting lists during peak hours and ensure guests are informed about estimated wait times.
• Offer alternatives or options to keep guests comfortable during waits, such as directing them to a bar or lounge area if available.
• Coordinating with Staff:
• Communicate effectively with the kitchen and wait staff to ensure a smooth seating flow and quick table turnover.
• Assist with the flow of the restaurant, especially during busy times, by helping manage the seating chart.
• Maintaining Cleanliness and Organization:
• Keep the front entrance, host stand, and waiting areas tidy and organized.
• Ensure menus, promotional materials, and the restaurant's appearance are clean and welcoming.
• Handling Guest Issues:
• Resolve minor guest issues or concerns in a polite and efficient manner, and escalate to a supervisor or manager when necessary.
• Maintaining Wait List & Reservations System:
• Input guest data into the reservation system, track wait times, and keep the flow of guests running smoothly.
• Communicate any changes in reservations to relevant staff.

Skills and Qualifications

• Communication Skills: Clear, friendly, and effective verbal communication, with a focus on customer service.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage reservations, waitlists, and seating assignments efficiently, especially during peak hours.
• Customer-Focused Attitude: Always prioritize the needs and comfort of the guest.
• Multitasking: Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
• Teamwork: Work well with other front-of-house staff, including servers, bartenders, and managers.
• Professional Appearance: Present a neat, clean, and professional appearance that aligns with the restaurant's standards.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to walk or move quickly to accommodate guest needs.

Work Environment

• Fast-paced environment, particularly during peak dining times.
• Often involves working evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Educational Requirements

• Previous experience in hospitality or customer service is preferred but not required.

Working Hours

• Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Job Type: Full-time