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Jump Start -- by Mark Sproxton
Three words sum up the opportunities available in Alberta's restaurant
industry: an employees market. With Alberta restaurants projected to lead
the country in growth over the next two to three years, employment and
career opportunities abound, said Lindy Rollingson, president of the
Alberta Restaurants & Foodservices Association.
"You can see the help wanted signs everywhere, from busboys to chefs, from
restaurants to hotels," she said. Regardless of position, the need for
workers means most everyone earns more than minimum wage. "It's very
definitely been a number of years since anyone has worked at minimum wage,"
Rollingson said. "Where they pool tips, you can see people going home with
$40 an hour."
Benefit programs, and incentives such as memberships to fitness clubs, are
becoming more common as methods to attract and keep good employees, she
added. Employers are also more willing to split or book shifts around
peoples' schedules, such as students who are required to attend classes at
specified times.
So what are some keys to finding work? "Determine which restaurants you
would like to work at, and drop in," Rollingson suggests. "But be careful
of the timing." Showing up to drop off a resume at the busy lunch or supper
hours is not a good idea. "Dropping in at 10:30 in the morning or 2:30 in
the afternoon are good times."
Employers are looking for those with an outgoing personality who are able
to deal with people effectively and are able to solve problems in a calm
and efficient manner, Rollingson said. And those who show they are capable
and have a desire to move ahead, have much room to be promoted, especially
when employers need experienced workers.
But once someone is in the industry, it doesn't mean the work is easy.
"Lugging trays and dealing with difficult customers can be very hard
physically and mentally," Rollingson said.
For a listing of education, training and volunteer opportunities, and a
list of related job boards and associations, read on:
Education/training
The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) offers a two-year
diploma in hotel and restaurant management in addition to a professional cooking diploma.
A continuing education program on a hospitality management certificate
specializing in food and beverage management is also offered by SAIT.
The University of Calgary, in conjunction with SAIT, offers a
bachelor degree in hotel and resort management.
Cooks in Alberta can become certified journeymen through
Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training.
Alberta's
Training for Excellence Corporation offers training in many areas of
the restaurant and tourism industry, although some employers may pay for
this training after you have been hired.
A number of restaurant companies offer specialized in-house training. Here's an example of what is available.
Volunteer
Volunteer Calgary has a multitude of opportunities for those wanting to gain experience dealing with people in a variety of situations.
Job boards/associations
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