Finding a job in the hospitality industry can be challenging. Over the years, we at SOEG Consulting have helped thousands of hospitality professionals find the right jobs. But we have also seen many job seekers make avoidable mistakes.
Here are seven common mistakes hospitality professionals make while job hunting. Avoid these, and you will have a better chance at landing the job you deserve.
1. Using a Generic Resume
Many jobseekers send the same resume to every employer. This is a big mistake. Every hotel and every job role is different. A resume should highlight your most relevant skills and experience for the job you are applying for.
Example: If you are applying for a Front Office Manager role, your resume should highlight guest relations, communication skills, and experience in front desk operations. Do not include irrelevant details about kitchen operations or housekeeping.
Tip: Customise your resume for every job. Use keywords from the job description.
2. Ignoring LinkedIn and Online Presence
Many hospitality professionals still rely only on job portals. But recruiters also check LinkedIn. If your profile is incomplete, outdated, or unprofessional, you may lose opportunities.
Example: A recruiter searches for a Restaurant Manager. You have great experience but no LinkedIn profile. The recruiter moves on to someone else.
Tip: Keep your LinkedIn profile updated. Use a professional photo and list your skills and experience. Follow hotel brands and recruiters.
3. Not Using AI Tools for Job Search
AI can make job searching faster and smarter. Many jobseekers still rely only on old methods. Tools like SOEGi – Hospitality Career Bot, ChatGPT, and Bing Co-Pilot can help with job search strategies, resume writing, and interview preparation.
Example: Instead of manually searching for job openings, you can ask SOEGi to suggest relevant jobs based on your experience and preferences.
Tip: Use AI-powered tools to improve your resume, prepare for interviews, and find the best job opportunities.
4. Applying for Too Many Jobs Randomly
Some jobseekers apply to hundreds of jobs without checking if they are a good fit. This leads to frustration and wasted effort.
Example: Applying for a General Manager role when you have only two years of experience in the industry.
Tip: Apply for jobs that match your experience and skills. Focus on quality, not quantity.
5. Poor Communication with Recruiters
Recruiters and employers appreciate professionalism. Many jobseekers make mistakes like sending incomplete emails, not following up, or responding too casually.
Example: Sending an email with just “Sir, job needed.” Instead, write a proper introduction and attach your resume.
Tip: Write clear and professional emails. Follow up politely if you do not get a response.
6. Not Preparing for Interviews
Many jobseekers think they can answer interview questions without preparation. This is a mistake. Employers expect well-thought-out responses.
Example: When asked, “Why do you want to work with us?” you should have a specific answer related to the hotel and role, not just “I need a job.”
Tip: Research the hotel, the job role, and prepare answers for common hospitality interview questions. Practice with a friend or use AI tools.
7. Ignoring Salary Research
Many jobseekers do not research salary trends and either ask for too little or too much.
Example: A fresher Housekeeping Supervisor asking for Rs. 70,000 per month when the market rate is Rs. 25,000-35,000.
Tip: Research hotel management salaries on industry websites like Indeed Salary guide and check our SOEG Consulting salary reports through SOEGi bot.
Final Thoughts
Job hunting is a skill. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you find the right job faster. Use AI tools, update your resume, use top job search websites, communicate professionally, and research well. At SOEG Consulting, we guide hospitality professionals towards the right career moves. If you need support, explore our resources and job listings using search jobs from menu or simply ask SOEGi bot for help.
Success in hospitality starts with a smart job search!
