Host(ess)

Jacobs & Co. Steakhouse; Toronto; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A Toronto-based restaurant is seeking a Restaurant Host/Hostess to create a positive atmosphere for guests. Responsibilities include greeting and seating guests, managing waitlists, and ensuring service flow. The ideal candidate possesses excellent communication and customer service skills, remains professional in a fast-paced setting, and has organizational abilities.

Qualifications

• Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment.
• Previous experience in a customer service role is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Greet guests upon arrival with a smile.
• Manage seating arrangements and waitlist effectively.
• Maintain cleanliness of the reception and waiting areas.

Skills

Customer service

Communication skills

Organizational abilities

Multitasking

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Summary:

The Restaurant Host/Hostess is the first point of contact for guests and plays a crucial role in creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere. They are responsible for greeting guests, managing seating arrangements, providing accurate wait times, and ensuring a smooth and efficient flow of service in the front-of-house. The ideal candidate will be friendly, organized, and possess excellent communication and customer service skills.

Responsibilities:

• Guest Reception and Seating: Warmly greet guests upon arrival with a smile and professional demeanor.
• Escort guests to their assigned tables promptly and efficiently.
• Present menus and inform guests of any specials or promotions.
• Manage the seating chart to optimize table utilization and minimize wait times.
• Accommodate guest preferences for seating whenever possible.

• Waitlist Management: Accurately record guest names and party sizes on the waitlist.
• Provide realistic and courteous estimates of wait times.
• Manage the waiting area, ensuring guests are comfortable.
• Notify guests promptly when their table is ready.

• Communication and Coordination: Maintain clear and effective communication with servers, bussers, and management regarding table availability and guest needs.
• Answer phone calls professionally and courteously, taking reservations, providing information, and answering inquiries.
• Relay guest feedback or concerns to the appropriate personnel.

• Maintaining the Front-of-House: Ensure the reception area and waiting area are clean, organized, and presentable at all times.
• Monitor restrooms and inform staff of any maintenance needs.
• Assist with light cleaning tasks as needed.

• Customer Service: Provide exceptional customer service, addressing guest inquiries and resolving minor issues with a positive attitude.
• Anticipate guest needs and proactively offer assistance.
• Thank guests upon departure and invite them to return.

• Administrative Tasks: Assist with opening and closing duties as assigned.
• May handle basic cash transactions or manage coat check.
• Maintain a thorough knowledge of the restaurant's menu, hours of operation, and policies.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous experience in a customer service role, preferably in a restaurant or hospitality setting, is an asset.
• Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment.
• Positive attitude and a genuine desire to provide excellent customer service.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Basic computer skills for managing reservations or waitlists (may vary depending on the restaurant's system).

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk for long periods.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and reach.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 15-20 pounds occasionally (e.g., menus, supplies).
• Ability to communicate clearly and audibly.

Work Environment:

• Fast-paced restaurant environment.
• May involve working evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Exposure to varying noise levels.