Basic Qualifications for Front of the House Associates
Education: College Level or equivalent preferred.
Experience: Previous customer service or food service experience preferred.
Communication Skills: Strong and excellent verbal communication skills.
Physical Stamina: Ability to meet the physical demands of the job.
Availability: Flexible availability, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Knowledge of Food and Beverage: Basic understanding of coffee, tea, pastries, and menu items.
Teamwork: Ability to work well with others and contribute to a positive team environment.
Health and Safety: May need to obtain a food handler’s permit or undergo a background check.
Specific Skills Set for Front of the House Associates
Customer Service: Excellent customer service skills are essential for FOH Associates. They should be friendly, attentive, and able to provide a positive experience for customers.
Communication: Strong verbal communication skills are crucial for FOH Associates to interact effectively with customers, take orders, and convey information clearly to both customers and colleagues.
Interpersonal Skills: FOH Associates should have strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with customers and work well with their team members.
Multitasking: FOH Associates often have to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as taking orders, serving customers, and managing cash transactions. The ability to prioritize and multitask efficiently is important.
Problem Solving: FOH Associates should be able to handle customer complaints or difficult situations with professionalism and find appropriate solutions to ensure customer satisfaction.
Cash Handling: Proficiency in handling cash transactions accurately and efficiently is important for FOH Associates, including operating cash registers, processing payments, and giving change.
Menu Knowledge: FOH Associates should have a good understanding of the cafe or restaurant’s menu items, including ingredients, allergens, and preparation methods. This allows them to answer customer questions and make recommendations.
Attention to Detail: FOH Associates should pay attention to detail to ensure order accuracy, maintain cleanliness of the dining area, and follow proper food handling and safety protocols.
Teamwork: FOH Associates often work as part of a team, collaborating with kitchen staff, other FOH employees, and management. Strong teamwork skills and the ability to support and assist colleagues are important.
Time Management: FOH Associates need to work efficiently to serve customers promptly and ensure that orders are prepared and delivered in a timely manner.
Core Competencies of Front of the House Associates
Customer Service: Provide exceptional service and create a positive customer experience.
Communication: Effectively and confidently communicate with customers and convey information.
Professionalism: Maintain a professional demeanor, handle challenging situations calmly.
Teamwork: Collaborate with colleagues and contribute to a positive team environment.
Adaptability: Be flexible and adjust to fast-paced environments and changing demands.
Problem Solving: Proactively find solutions to customer issues or service disruptions.
Attention to Detail: Take accurate orders, maintain cleanliness, and ensure order quality.
Time Management: Prioritize tasks, work efficiently, and ensure timely service.
Cash Handling: Handle payments accurately and operate cash registers.
Menu Knowledge: Understand menu items, ingredients, and allergens for recommendations.
