When I started in hospitality in Switzerland and then moved to the UK, I made every possible mistake a young hotel professional could make. Wrong CVs, no follow-up, poor networking, blind applications, etc. I learned by failing and doing. There was no LinkedIn, no AI, no easy online coaching.
Today, I see many fresh and mid-level hotel professionals repeating the same mistakes I made years ago. The only difference is that you now have tools and platforms to fix them immediately.
Here are the top 10 hidden mistakes that silently block you from landing your next good hotel job and exactly what to do about them.
1. Sending the Same CV Everywhere
One CV for every hotel is the biggest mistake. Recruiters know when you have just changed the hotel name and sent the same file. A generic CV does not match keywords or the job’s real requirements.
Fix it: Use an ATS-friendly tool like Jobscan to check if your CV matches the job description. Tweak skills, duties and words every time.
2. Ignoring LinkedIn
Many good candidates do not even have a LinkedIn profile. Or they set it once and forget it. In 2025, recruiters check your LinkedIn before they open your CV.
Fix it: Build a clean profile. Keep the photo professional. Add keywords for your target job. Join active groups and follow top hotels.
3. No Follow-Up
Applying and waiting does not work anymore. Hotels get hundreds of applications. A short polite follow-up can move your name up the pile.
Fix it: After applying, find the HR or recruiter on LinkedIn. Send a simple note: “Dear Sir, I applied for the Front Office Supervisor position. I am very keen to discuss it if suitable. Thank you for your time.”
4. Not Using AI Tools
AI is not only for big tech companies. It is a daily helper now. Those who use AI to fine-tune CVs, write cover letters or practise interviews save time and make fewer mistakes.
Fix it: Use ChatGPT or Careerflow to check your CV and prepare answers. Use SOEGi to find matching jobs and get CV tips in seconds.
5. Weak Interview Preparation
Many candidates still walk into interviews without knowing the hotel’s latest updates or the job details. Basic questions catch them off guard.
Fix it: Do a ten-minute check of the hotel’s website. Read recent news. Practice common hospitality questions. Use SOEGi or LinkedIn groups to find common real questions.
6. Bad Email Etiquette
Unprofessional emails can kill your first impression. Some candidates still send CVs titled “CV for Job” with no subject line or a blank message body.
Fix it: Always write a short message. Example: “Dear Ms Sharma, Please find attached my CV for the F&B Captain role at The Oberoi. I look forward to discussing how I can add value to your team. Regards, Manish.”
7. Not Knowing Your Market Salary
In interviews, many get stuck on salary talks. If you say a figure too high or too low, you lose ground.
Fix it: Check salary ranges on Glassdoor or Payscale. Speak to friends working in similar brands. Be ready with a range, not a fixed number.
8. Weak References
References matter in hospitality. Many hotels call your ex-managers or colleagues before finalising your offer. Bad or missing references delay or ruin selection.
Fix it: Keep 2-3 trusted references ready. Inform them in advance. Stay in touch with old managers on LinkedIn.
9. Not Targeting the Right Hotels
Applying for every job listed wastes energy. Many applicants go for brands they do not match in experience or style.
Fix it: Shortlist hotels that suit your experience level. Use trusted hospitality job sites like Hosco and CatererGlobal to find real openings.
10. Ignoring Local Job Agents and Networks
Some rely only on online applications. Many good hotels still hire through local trusted agents and word-of-mouth networks.
Fix it: Stay in touch with your city’s good hospitality agents. Keep your SOEG Consulting link active. Our SOEGi tool pushes matching jobs directly to your inbox.
Quick Fix Table: Common Mistakes vs Quick Actions
| Mistake | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| Same CV everywhere | Use Jobscan to adjust keywords |
| No LinkedIn | Build profile, join groups |
| No follow-up | Send polite LinkedIn message |
| No AI help | Use SOEGi, Careerflow |
| Weak interview prep | Practise 30 mins for each role |
| Bad emails | Write proper subject and body |
| Unknown salary range | Check Glassdoor or Payscale |
| Poor references | Inform ex-managers early |
| Random job applications | Use trusted sites only |
| No agent link | Register with SOEG Consulting |
Final Word — Do Not Repeat These in 2025
I made these mistakes twenty years ago when there were no modern tools. Today, you have every possible support: AI, LinkedIn, smart CV checkers, global job boards and career support agencies like us.
Use them wisely. Keep your energy high, your CV fresh, and your follow-up strong.
We at SOEG Consulting are here to guide you with honest feedback, verified jobs and practical AI tools like SOEGi to help you get hired faster.
