How to Become a Restaurant Manager (From Foodie to Foreman)
If you’ve ever envisioned running a bustling restaurant or pondered what it takes to become a successful restaurant manager, you’ve landed in the right spot.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the PRECISE steps you need to climb the ladder to a career as a restaurant manager. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you must possess.
- The education that can aid your journey.
- How to secure a position as a restaurant manager.
So, whether you’re a hospitality newbie or a seasoned industry professional looking to level up, stay with us.
We’re about to unfold the roadmap to becoming a restaurant manager.
Let’s dive in!
Steps to Become a Restaurant Manager
Step 1: Research the Role and Industry
Before pursuing a career as a restaurant manager, it’s crucial that you understand the role and the restaurant industry as a whole.
A restaurant manager oversees all operations at a restaurant, from hiring and firing staff, to coordinating menus, managing budgets, and ensuring a high standard of food quality and service.
Start by reading articles, industry reports and books, and watch relevant documentaries to familiarize yourself with the job and the restaurant industry.
Attend industry events and seminars, if possible, to gain firsthand experience of the industry atmosphere and talk to professionals already in the field.
In addition, shadowing a restaurant manager or getting part-time work in a restaurant can offer valuable insights into the role.
This could range from front of house roles such as serving or bartending, to back of house roles such as cooking or cleaning.
This gives a more practical understanding of what a restaurant manager does on a daily basis and helps you decide if this is the right career for you.
It’s also important to understand the challenges of the industry, such as long hours, high stress levels, and the need for excellent customer service skills.
By doing this research, you can gain a thorough understanding of the role of a restaurant manager and the industry, which will prepare you for the next steps of your career journey.
Step 2: Pursue Relevant Education
To become a restaurant manager, it can be helpful to gain an educational background in hospitality or business management.
Many restaurants prefer managers who have a degree in these fields as it provides them with a comprehensive understanding of the food and beverage industry.
Some popular degree choices are an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in restaurant, hospitality, or food service management.
While pursuing your degree, you’ll learn about various aspects of running a restaurant, such as food service management, food and beverage cost control, hospitality law, and human resources management.
These courses will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage a restaurant.
However, remember that education is not always a strict requirement.
Some restaurant managers work their way up from entry-level positions, gaining valuable on-the-job experience.
In such cases, taking certificate courses or attending workshops related to restaurant management can be beneficial.
Regardless of the path you take, continually educating yourself about the latest trends in the food industry, customer service, and business management will help you stay ahead in your career.
Step 3: Gain Experience in the Food Service Industry
Before stepping into a restaurant management role, it’s crucial to gain hands-on experience in the food service industry.
This can be done by working in various roles such as a waiter, cook, or bartender.
Having experience in these roles can give you valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of a restaurant and how each role contributes to the overall functioning of the establishment.
Being on the front line can also give you the opportunity to understand and handle customer concerns and complaints, which is a crucial aspect of restaurant management.
It helps in developing excellent customer service skills and understanding the importance of maintaining quality service.
Additionally, working in the kitchen or helping with inventory management can also provide useful exposure to back-end operations, which are essential to manage in a restaurant.
Remember that the more experience you gain in various roles, the better equipped you will be to manage a restaurant effectively.
You’ll understand the challenges faced by your staff and will be able to make informed decisions that benefit both your customers and employees.
The duration of gaining this experience can vary but spending at least a few years in different roles can be beneficial.
Over time, seek leadership positions, such as shift supervisor or assistant manager, to start developing management skills.
Step 4: Develop Management and Leadership Skills
As a restaurant manager, it’s essential that you possess strong leadership and management skills.
These can be developed in several ways.
First, consider taking a course or obtaining a certification in hospitality management or business management.
These courses often cover topics such as team leadership, conflict resolution, communication, decision-making, and financial management, all of which are key skills for a successful restaurant manager.
In addition to formal education, hands-on experience is one of the best ways to develop these skills.
Working in different roles within a restaurant will give you an understanding of how each function contributes to the overall operation, and it will provide you with the opportunity to lead teams, manage conflicts, make decisions, and communicate effectively.
Volunteer or seek out opportunities to lead projects or teams, not only in your work environment but also in your community or within local industry organizations.
This will allow you to refine your leadership style, learn how to motivate and inspire others, and understand how to effectively manage resources and time.
Finally, learn from others.
Seek out mentors in the industry, observe successful managers, and constantly seek feedback on your own management style.
This will help you identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to become a more effective leader.
Remember, great leaders aren’t born, they are made.
It takes time, effort, and continuous learning to develop into a successful restaurant manager.
Step 5: Acquire a Working Knowledge of Food Safety
As a restaurant manager, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of food safety regulations and practices.
This knowledge will not only ensure the safety of your customers but also the overall success of the restaurant.
To acquire a working knowledge of food safety, you may consider attending food safety training courses or seminars.
These programs often cover topics such as proper food storage, preparation, handling, and disposal, as well as the prevention of foodborne illnesses.
Furthermore, you should familiarize yourself with the local health department regulations and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) food code.
This will ensure that your restaurant complies with all necessary standards, thus avoiding costly violations and closures.
You can also gain firsthand experience by working in different positions within the restaurant, such as a chef or a server.
This will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the practical aspects of food safety.
Finally, consider getting certified in food safety.
Many institutions offer food safety certification programs, such as the National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe certification.
This certification can significantly enhance your credibility and increase your chances of getting hired or promoted as a restaurant manager.
Step 6: Build Customer Service Expertise
As a restaurant manager, your role is not just limited to managing the staff and the operations, but also extends to dealing with customers directly.
You must have excellent customer service skills to ensure that every customer has a pleasant experience at your restaurant.
This requires developing an understanding of the best ways to interact with customers to resolve their issues, enhance their dining experience, and ensure their satisfaction.
It can range from handling complaints about food or service, dealing with difficult customers, or just ensuring that the customers feel welcomed and valued.
You can build your customer service skills by working in customer-facing roles, attending training and workshops, and observing experienced professionals.
It is also essential to keep yourself updated on the latest trends and best practices in customer service within the restaurant industry.
Remember, an effective restaurant manager is one who can balance the operational aspects of running a restaurant with providing top-notch customer service.
This combination will help in building a loyal customer base, enhancing the restaurant’s reputation and ultimately, driving its success.
Step 7: Learn Financial Management
A key aspect of being a restaurant manager is understanding and managing the financial aspects of the business.
This includes budgeting, controlling costs, managing cash flow, understanding profit and loss, and ensuring the financial health of the restaurant.
It’s crucial to have a good understanding of how to control food and labor costs, two of the largest expenses in the restaurant industry.
By effectively managing these costs, you can greatly impact the profitability of the restaurant.
You should also learn how to analyze a profit and loss statement.
This document provides an overview of the restaurant’s revenues, costs, and expenses during a certain period.
By understanding this statement, you can identify areas where the restaurant is overspending or not generating enough revenue, and make necessary adjustments.
Financial management also involves budgeting and forecasting.
This means predicting future sales and costs based on historical data and current market trends, and planning accordingly.
You don’t necessarily need a background in finance to manage a restaurant, but taking some business and finance courses or training can be very beneficial.
You can also seek mentorship from successful restaurant managers or owners, or hire a financial advisor who specializes in the restaurant industry.
Remember, a profitable restaurant is not just about great food and service – it’s also about sound financial management.
Step 8: Get Certified in Restaurant Management
To elevate your career as a Restaurant Manager, consider obtaining a certification in Restaurant Management or a related field.
This not only enhances your credibility but also increases your chances for advancement.
Various institutions offer certification programs for aspiring Restaurant Managers.
The certification program can help you gain more in-depth knowledge and skills in restaurant management.
It includes topics like customer service, food and beverage management, business operations, and financial management.
It may also cover subjects such as leadership, marketing, and human resources.
Keep in mind that some employers may require certification, especially for higher management positions.
Therefore, getting certified could open up more job opportunities for you.
You may also consider obtaining additional certifications in areas such as food safety and alcohol service.
Remember, lifelong learning and professional development are essential in the restaurant industry.
Therefore, after earning your initial certification, consider pursuing continuous learning opportunities to stay updated with the latest trends and innovations in the restaurant business.
Step 9: Network with Industry Professionals
As a restaurant manager, your network can be one of your most valuable resources.
Networking with other industry professionals can offer you a wealth of knowledge, insights, and potential opportunities.
You may gain advice on daily operations, dealing with difficult customers, or even staffing issues.
Attending local restaurant association meetings, hospitality industry conferences, and other industry events can provide excellent opportunities to network.
Social media platforms such as LinkedIn can also be a great way to connect with other restaurant managers, chefs, suppliers, and other professionals in the food and beverage industry.
Networking not only allows you to learn from others’ experiences, but it also opens up opportunities for collaborations, partnerships, and even job opportunities.
Remember to maintain these relationships, as you never know when you might need advice or assistance.
In addition, participating in local community events can help you establish your restaurant’s presence in the community, which can attract more customers and enhance your restaurant’s reputation.
Remember, the more you network, the more you learn, and the more your restaurant can benefit.
Networking is an ongoing process and should be an integral part of your role as a restaurant manager.
Step 10: Apply for Restaurant Management Positions
After you’ve gained necessary education, developed skills through hands-on experience, and built a strong resume, the next step is to begin actively applying for restaurant management positions.
This can be done through various job portals, company websites, or through networking.
Start by identifying potential restaurants you’d like to work with.
This could range from fast-food chains to fine dining establishments, depending on your interests and experience.
Always tailor your applications to fit the specific job description and the restaurant’s culture.
Ensure your resume and cover letter highlight your relevant experience, managerial skills, and leadership abilities.
Mention any specific achievements, such as improving a restaurant’s efficiency or increasing sales.
Remember, interviews are a two-way process.
While the restaurant is assessing your suitability for the role, it’s also your opportunity to understand if the restaurant aligns with your career goals and values.
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview to gain insight into the restaurant’s work environment, values, and expectations for the role.
Lastly, don’t get disheartened if you don’t land a job immediately.
The process can take time, and each application or interview is a learning experience.
Keep refining your approach and continue to apply for new positions.
Restaurant Manager Roles and Responsibilities
A Restaurant Manager is responsible for overseeing the efficient running and profitability of restaurants and for managing their employees.
They ensure efficient restaurant operation, as well as maintain high production, productivity, quality, and customer-service standards.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Operations Management
- Coordinate daily Front of the House and Back of the House restaurant operations.
- Ensure all operations are carried on in an appropriate, cost-effective way.
- Maintain high standards of food, service, health and safety.
- Monitor compliance with sanitation and safety rules and regulations.
Staff Management
- Manage recruitment, training, and performance evaluation of all restaurant staff.
- Lead and develop the restaurant team to deliver high-quality service and food.
- Address employee and guest concerns efficiently and in a friendly manner.
Customer Service
- Deliver superior service and ensure absolute customer satisfaction.
- Respond efficiently and accurately to customer complaints.
- Regularly review product quality and conduct research to ascertain the best value.
Financial Management
- Estimate future needs for goods, kitchen utensils and cleaning products.
- Prepare detailed reports on weekly, monthly and annual revenues and expenses.
- Control operational costs and identify measures to cut waste.
Marketing and Promotion
- Recommend ways to reach a broader audience (e.g. discounts and social media ads).
- Organize and supervise shifts.
Supply Chain Management
- Maintain relationships with suppliers and negotiate contracts to control food cost.
- Ensure delivery of supplies and stock in accordance with company policies.
Facilities Management
- Ensure that facilities and equipment are well maintained and up to regulatory standards.
- Manage restaurant’s good image and suggest ways to improve it.
Legal Compliance
- Ensure the restaurant operates in compliance with all local, state and federal laws.
- Understand and enforce provisions of the employee handbook, policies and procedures.
Menu Management
- Coordinate with the chef to plan menus according to local and seasonal availability, and customer and kitchen staff feedback.
- Implement policies and protocols that will maintain future restaurant operations.
Communication
- Ensure clear communication between front of house and back of house staff.
- Communicate with customers to resolve complaints or ensure satisfaction.
What Does a Restaurant Manager Do?
Restaurant Managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a restaurant or food service establishment.
They are involved in a wide range of tasks including staff management, customer service, inventory control, and financial management.
They are tasked with hiring, training, and managing restaurant staff, ensuring that they deliver quality service and adhere to food and health safety standards.
Restaurant Managers also oversee the preparation of meals, ensuring the food meets the restaurant’s quality standards and is served in a timely manner.
Additionally, Restaurant Managers handle customer complaints and feedback, ensuring that any issues are resolved quickly and efficiently.
They work to provide a top-notch dining experience for all customers, which often involves greeting and interacting with patrons personally.
Restaurant Managers are also responsible for managing the restaurant’s finances.
This includes budgeting, controlling costs, and setting and achieving revenue targets.
They often work closely with suppliers to order and maintain the restaurant’s inventory.
Lastly, they ensure that the restaurant adheres to all relevant legislation, including licensing, food safety, and occupational health and safety regulations.
They may also be involved in marketing and promotional activities to help increase the restaurant’s visibility and attract new customers.
Essential Restaurant Manager Skills
- Leadership: As a restaurant manager, you must inspire your team to perform at their best. This includes fostering a positive work environment, promoting team cohesion, and providing mentorship to staff members.
- Customer Service: Providing an excellent dining experience for customers is paramount. This means having strong interpersonal skills to handle customer complaints, requests, and feedback in a professional manner.
- Business Acumen: Understanding the business aspects of running a restaurant, such as budgeting, inventory management, and marketing, is key to operating a successful establishment.
- Communication: Effective communication skills are crucial in this role. You need to be able to clearly convey information to your staff, vendors, and customers, as well as listen effectively to understand their needs and concerns.
- Problem-Solving: Challenges are a part of the restaurant business. Whether it’s handling a staff shortage, dealing with equipment malfunction, or resolving customer complaints, you need strong problem-solving skills to navigate through these issues smoothly.
- Attention to Detail: Overseeing the daily operations of a restaurant requires a keen eye for detail. This involves ensuring food safety standards are met, the premises are clean and tidy, and all equipment is functioning properly.
- Decision Making: As a restaurant manager, you will often need to make quick decisions under pressure. This could involve handling a conflict between staff members, deciding on menu changes, or managing a booking overload.
- Time Management: Restaurants are fast-paced environments. The ability to prioritize tasks, delegate effectively, and manage your time well is essential to keep the operation running smoothly.
- Menu Planning: A good restaurant manager should have a basic understanding of food and beverage trends and be able to work with the head chef to create enticing menus that appeal to customers while also being cost-effective.
- Staff Training: Part of your role will be to provide adequate training to your staff. This could involve teaching them about new menu items, instructing them on how to handle difficult customers, or showing them how to use new equipment.
- Resilience: The restaurant industry can be stressful and demanding. Resilience and the ability to maintain composure during stressful situations are key skills for a restaurant manager.
- Knowledge of Regulations: Understanding local health and safety regulations, as well as any liquor licensing laws, is crucial in the restaurant business. This helps ensure your restaurant stays compliant and avoids potential fines or closures.
- Marketing and Sales: Developing and implementing marketing strategies to attract and retain customers is a vital skill. This could involve managing social media accounts, planning special events, or launching promotions.
- Human Resources: Hiring, training, scheduling, and overseeing employees is a significant part of a restaurant manager’s job. Knowledge of human resource practices and labor laws can be beneficial.
- Computer Literacy: In today’s digital world, being able to use restaurant management software for tasks like reservations, inventory control, and payroll is a must-have skill.
Restaurant Manager Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Entry-Level Roles
Your journey typically begins in entry-level roles such as Server, Host, or Busser.
At this stage, you’ll gain first-hand experience in the restaurant industry, learning the ins and outs of customer service, food service, and restaurant operations.
- Customer Service: Learn how to handle customer inquiries and complaints professionally and effectively.
- Teamwork: Working effectively with your colleagues is crucial in a fast-paced environment like a restaurant.
- Attention to Detail: Learn about food safety, meal presentation, and restaurant cleanliness.
The Ascent: Shift Manager or Supervisor
After acquiring some experience and understanding the restaurant operations, you can move up to roles like Shift Manager or Supervisor.
You’ll manage a team of servers and kitchen staff, handle scheduling, and ensure the smooth operation of the restaurant during your shift.
- Leadership: Develop your leadership skills by motivating and guiding your team.
- Problem-Solving: Handle any issues or conflicts that arise during your shift promptly and effectively.
- Time Management: Learn to manage your time and resources efficiently to ensure smooth operations.
Reaching New Heights: Assistant Restaurant Manager
The next step up is the role of an Assistant Restaurant Manager.
In this role, you’ll assist the Restaurant Manager in all aspects of restaurant management, including hiring, training, inventory management, and financial tracking.
- Management Skills: Enhance your management skills by dealing with staff, suppliers, and customers.
- Financial Acumen: Learn how to control costs, manage inventory, and understand financial reports to ensure the restaurant’s profitability.
- Training and Development: Work on your ability to train and develop your team.
Beyond the Horizon: Restaurant Manager
As a Restaurant Manager, you’ll be responsible for all aspects of the restaurant’s operation.
This involves everything from managing staff and maintaining quality control to financial management and marketing.
- Strategic Planning: Learn how to plan for the future, including marketing strategies and expansion plans.
- Quality Control: Ensure that the quality of both food and service meets the standards of your restaurant.
- Marketing: Understand your market and develop strategies to attract and retain customers.
Pinnacle of Success: Restaurant Owner or Regional Manager
At the highest levels of the restaurant industry, you could own your own restaurant or manage several locations as a Regional Manager.
At this level, you’ll be making strategic decisions that affect the success of your business or region.
- Business Acumen: Develop a deep understanding of the business side of running a restaurant, including finances, marketing, and business development.
- Networking: Building relationships with suppliers, other business owners, and customers can be essential for your restaurant’s success.
- Innovation: Continually look for ways to improve your restaurant, whether it’s updating the menu, renovating the space, or implementing new technology.
Restaurant Manager Salary
Entry-Level Restaurant Manager
- Median Salary: $35,000 – $45,000 per year
- Entry-level restaurant managers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold bachelor’s degrees in hospitality or related fields. They are often responsible for managing staff, coordinating schedules, and handling customer complaints.
Mid-Level Restaurant Manager
- Median Salary: $45,000 – $55,000 per year
- Mid-level restaurant managers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex responsibilities such as inventory management, personnel hiring, and financial reporting.
Senior Restaurant Manager
- Median Salary: $55,000 – $70,000 per year
- Senior restaurant managers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for overall restaurant operations including marketing strategies, increasing revenue, and ensuring a high quality of service.
Restaurant General Manager / Operations Manager
- Median Salary: $65,000 – $80,000+ per year
- These roles require significant experience and often involve overseeing the day-to-day operations of multiple restaurant locations, strategic planning, budgeting, and liaising with vendors.
Director of Restaurant Operations / VP of Operations
- Median Salary: $85,000 – $130,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience and a deep understanding of restaurant operations. They are responsible for making strategic operational decisions, setting business objectives, and managing large teams across multiple locations.
Restaurant Manager Work Environment
Restaurant Managers are predominantly found in the hospitality sector where they oversee the operations of various dining establishments, including restaurants, cafes, and even large-scale hotel dining operations.
They generally have full-time schedules, often working long, irregular hours that include weekends, holidays, and evenings.
This is because these are the times when restaurants are most busy.
The work environment can be fast-paced and stressful, especially during peak dining hours.
Restaurant Managers need to be able to multitask and handle pressure well.
Despite the challenging environment, many Restaurant Managers find the job rewarding as it allows them to interact with a diverse range of people and provide excellent customer service.
Additionally, successful Restaurant Managers may have the opportunity to advance to larger establishments or even own their own restaurant.
FAQs About Becoming a Restaurant Manager
What qualifications do I need to become a restaurant manager?
To become a restaurant manager, you often need a combination of education and experience.
Many restaurant managers have a degree in hospitality or restaurant management, but it’s also common to work your way up from entry-level positions within the restaurant.
Some key skills include exceptional organizational abilities, customer service orientation, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of the food and beverage industry.
Knowledge of health and safety regulations is also important.
How long does it take to become a restaurant manager?
The time it takes to become a restaurant manager can vary.
If you are starting from an entry-level position, like a server or host, it can take several years of experience to move into a management position.
On the other hand, if you pursue a degree in hospitality or restaurant management, you may be able to move into a management role sooner.
Can I become a restaurant manager without a degree?
Yes, it’s certainly possible to become a restaurant manager without a degree.
Many successful restaurant managers have worked their way up from entry-level positions within the restaurant, learning the business from the ground up.
Experience, skills, and a strong work ethic are often more important than formal education in this field.
However, having a degree in restaurant or hospitality management could give you an edge in competitive job markets.
Is restaurant management a stressful job?
Restaurant management can be stressful at times due to the fast-paced nature of the work, unpredictable hours, and the need to meet the demands of customers and staff.
However, it can also be highly rewarding, especially when you successfully deliver a great dining experience for your customers.
Stress can be managed with effective time management, good organization skills, and maintaining a positive work environment.
What are the prospects for restaurant managers in the next decade?
The prospects for restaurant managers in the next decade are promising.
The food and beverage industry is a dynamic one and there is a consistent demand for skilled and experienced managers.
As more restaurants emphasize unique dining experiences, managers who can deliver high-quality service and innovative ideas will be highly sought after.
The expansion of the food delivery market also offers new opportunities for growth and development.
Conclusion
There you have it.
Embarking on a journey to become a restaurant manager is not a simple task, but it’s certainly rewarding.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and determination, you’re well on your way to making a significant contribution in the hospitality industry.
Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the opportunities are endless. Your innovations could lead to the next culinary revolution, changing how we dine, celebrate, and socialize.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in learning. Network with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop honing your management skills.
Because the world is waiting for what you can bring to the table.
And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in restaurant management, look no further than our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailor-made advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
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