Restaurant Hostess

A restaurant hostess acts as the first and last impression, primarily responsible for greeting guests, managing reservations and waitlists, seating customers efficiently to balance server loads, and maintaining a welcoming front desk, all while coordinating with staff and handling phone calls and guest inquiries to ensure smooth operations and a positive dining experience. They handle logistics like seating charts, provide menus, and address special requests or minor complaints, acting as a crucial link between guests and service staff. 

Key Roles & Responsibilities:

• Guest Welcome & Departure: Greet guests warmly, offer assistance (coats/umbrellas), and thank them upon leaving, making them feel valued.
• Reservation & Waitlist Management: Manage bookings via phone, online, or walk-ins, accurately estimate wait times, and organize seating efficiently.
• Seating & Pacing: Seat guests according to the floor plan, ensuring sections are balanced for servers and pacing service flow.
• Communication Hub: Relay information to servers, kitchen staff, and managers; handle phone calls and guest inquiries about menus or specials.
• Front Desk Presentation: Keep the host stand and waiting area clean, organized, and stocked with menus.
• Problem Solving: Address guest concerns professionally, offer solutions, and escalate issues to management when necessary.
• Anticipating Needs: Monitor the dining room, recognize repeat guests, and assist with special requests or dietary needs. 

Essential Skills:

• Strong communication & interpersonal skills.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent organization and multitasking.
• Positive, friendly, customer-service oriented attitude.
• Basic computer/POS system knowledge.