cover letter for hotel waiting staff

Waiter/waitress cover letter example

Competition for waiter/waitress jobs can be huge, but a compelling cover letter can help you to stand out from the crowd.

Your cover letter shouldn’t come as an afterthought to your CV. If you ace them both, you’ll have tripled your chances of landing an interview.

So, I’ve created this waiter/waitress cover letter example and step-by-step writing guide, to help you win recruiters over and land an interview.

Here’s what the guide will cover:

Guide contents

Waiter/waitress cover letter example

How to write a cover letter for your cv.

• What to include in a waiter/waitress cover letter

The waiter/waitress cover letter example above should help you picture what your finished cover letter should look like.

The candidate introduces themselves in a way which is friendly yet professional, enticing the reader to open the CV and consider their application.

Breakdown of a good cover letter

The diagram below shows the 7 key steps you need to focus on in order to write an attention-grabbing cover letter. If you follow these steps, recruiters will be eager to open your CV and find out more about you.

Write the cover letter in the body of your email/message

The aim of your cover letter is to introduce yourself and encourage recruiters to read your CV.

Therefore, it’s always best to write your cover letter directly in the body of the email you send, with your CV attached.

This way, you know for sure that your cover letter will actually be seen.

If you add it as an attachment, it’s highly unlikely to be opened, meaning you’d have missed out on a golden opportunity to connect with employers.

Quick tip:  Try to find the name and email address of the recruiter or hiring manager of the company, so you can bypass the competition and land in their inbox directly. Hospitality roles often get hundreds of applications through job sites, so this will significantly increase your chances of getting noticed.

Write a compelling subject line

Another benefit of sending your cover letter in the body of an email is that you can craft an attention-grabbing subject line.

Applicants who apply via a job board won’t be able to personalise theirs, so it’s an amazing opportunity to make your application stand out from the crowd.

A simple yet effective approach to this is to create a short professional summary of yourself which is tailored to the role you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying to be a waitress in a busy restaurant environment and have worked in similar environments before, you’d make it known in your subject line, like this:

• Experienced waitress with 6 years of experience in fast-paced city restaurants
• Skilled waiter with 1 year of experience of serving customers in a busy pub

If you have less relevant experience, you could write something which matches the skills listed in the job advertisement. For example, if the employer is looking for someone with great customer service skills, you might write:

• Bright student with excellent customer service skills

Address the recruiter/employer by name

Writing too formally can come across as unfriendly and impersonal. These days, it’s much better to address the recruiter/employer by their name, with a more relaxed and friendly tone.

So, how do you find the appropriate name?

Often, you’ll see the recruiter’s name and contact details at the top or bottom of the job advertisement. If you can’t spot it, try out the following tricks:

• Head over to the cafe, restaurant or bar website and see if there’s a ‘meet the team’ page or similar. If you find someone with a HR, recruiter or hiring manager title, use their name in your email. Some smaller establishments might not have an internal recruitment team, so in this case, use the manager’s name.
• If there’s no staff page on the website, try out LinkedIn. Type the name of the establishment into the search bar, head to their page and scan through the list of employees. Restaurant/cafe/bar managers are more than likely to be on LinkedIn, so you should be able to find an appropriate name here.

Write in a friendly but professional tone

The language you use in your cover letter matters, and you need to strike the right balance in order to make a positive first impression.

Speaking in an overly formal tone may sound detached and unfriendly, but speaking too casually could come across as rude and disrespectful.

So, you need to meet somewhere in the middle, aiming to sound friendly yet professional – an opening line like “I hope you’re well” is a great start.

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Check out our CV examples.

Highlight your most relevant skills

As soon as the reader sets eyes on your cover letter, it needs to be clear that you’re well-matched to the role. This way, they’re far more likely to go ahead and read your CV.

You can do this by highlighting your most relevant skills . Go back to the job ad and note down the top skills the employer is looking for.

Next, go through the list and tick off the ones you feel you have. These are the skills that you should include in your cover letter.

Keep it brief

All too often, applicants end up writing an entire page or more for their cover letter – but this is a huge mistake.

Recruiters , hiring managers and restaurant managers simply don’t have the time to read through numerous pages text, so a long cover letter probably won’t even be read.

So, by keeping yours short and concise in the body of your email, you can ensure your cover letter is read and leaves a positive impression on busy recruiters.

Aim for 4-8 sentences which simply summarise your relevant skills and encourage the reader to open your CV.

Sign off professionally

Lastly, sign off with a sleek, professional signature, as shown below.

You should include your full name, contact number (mobile is usually best) and your email address. Format it for impact by using a bold or italic font.

Not only does this show great business etiquette, but it also makes it easy for recruiters to pick up the phone and give you a call.

What to include in your waiter/waitress cover letter

Your cover letter content will inevitably reflect your individual experience and skills, but generally, a waiter/waitress cover letter should mention the following:

Who you’ve worked for –  Roles in the hospitality industry can vary massively, so it’s essential to distinguish your type of experience – for example, you might have worked in exclusive high-end restaurants, cafes, country pubs or hotel restaurants.

Product/service knowledge – Are you a cocktail wizard, have the brains for allergens and ingredients, or really know your stuff when it comes to Italian food? If you have any type of industry skill or knowledge which is relevant to the role you’re applying for, it’s a huge selling point – so make it clear in your cover letter.

Level of experience – Have you been working as a waiter or waitress for several years, or will this be your first role? State how many years of experience you hold early on in your cover letter.

Waiter/waitress skills – Make sure to match your skills with the job description and show off those which you possess, whether that’s customer service, food or drink prep or health and safety.

How you can benefit a new employer – Do you have a track record of decreasing guest waiting time, leading teams or positively handling customer complaints? Entice the reader to open your CV by communicating exactly how you benefit help the team.

Your waiter/waitress cover letter for your CV

Whilst writing your waiter/waitress cover letter, remember that the key is to make an impact and entice the reader to open your CV.

So, it needs to be short, snappy and punchy, putting forward a high-level view of why you’d make the perfect hire.

Before hitting that send button, double-check it for spelling and grammar mistakes and typos, as it needs to be 100% flawless.

Paired with an impactful waiter/waitress CV , you’re bound to win an interview in no time!

Good luck with your job search!

Professional Waiter Cover Letter Example for 2024

Read for inspiration or use it as a base to improve your own Waiter cover letter. Just replace personal information, company application data and achievements with your own.

Cover Letter Guide

Make your waiter cover letter stand out.

First off, you need to remember that a cover letter should build upon the information in your resume, rather than just repeat it.

Second, make sure that the tone of voice you use matches the company culture.

And last but not least, try to convey your enthusiasm for the position and the field. This will give your text a personal touch.

But how can you make your cover letter grab every hiring manager's attention? Let’s see…

Stand out with a strong introduction and an appropriate salutation

Addressing your cover letter to a person is always something you should aim to do.

But finding who's responsible for the recruitment process might not be the easiest thing. We get it.

In such cases, we advise you to stick to the gender-neutral cover letter salutations.

Here are some examples of suitable classic salutations:

• Dear Mr. John,
• Dear Ms. Petersen,
• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear Dr. Todd,
• Dear Head of [team you're applying for]

The introduction of your Waiter cover letter is what will get you remembered. But how can you make sure that your opening line is good enough?

Rumor has it, many people out there have started using phrases like “I found your job advert on website X and decided to apply” ever more often. But more importantly – that recruiters are already getting tired of it.

So instead of saying what everyone else is saying, we advise you to go for a more honest approach. Begin your cover letter by explaining what excites you about the company and how this excitement will help you on your journey towards success.

Emphasize your waiter soft skills and mention your hard skills

Although you’ve probably listed all your skills on your resume, it’s worth mentioning them again, but by telling a personal story. Focusing on your soft skills and leaving most hard ones behind is also a good idea.

Maybe you want to mention the things that help you overcome setbacks? Or the things that help you reach your goals? It doesn’t really matter what you choose, as long as you link it back to the specific job requirements.

Naturally, if the job advert mentions some hard skills explicitly, you should do the same in your cover letter. This will help you pass applicant tracking systems (ATS) that screen resumes and cover letters for certain keywords.

Show how passionate you are to join the company

Proving that you’re familiar with the company is a great way to win the recruiter’s heart. It shows that you’ve taken some time for research and that you’re attentive to detail.

What’s more, it will also help you find out the issues at hand. This way, you can link your own skills and qualifications to some potential challenges the company might have to deal with in the future.

End in an actionable way

Ending your cover letter in an actionable way is one of the things that increase your chances of getting a callback.

The conclusion is also your opportunity to thank the recruiter for their time and consideration, so don’t skip that.

Just make sure to go for an ending that matches the company culture and language. If you prefer to be on the safe side, choose traditional closing lines such as “Looking forward to your reply”.

Cover letter examples by industry

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3 Hospitality Cover Letter Examples for the Job in 2024

• Hospitality Cover Letter
• Hotel Front Desk Receptionist Cover Letter
• Concierge Cover Letter
• Write Your Hospitality Cover Letter

Optimizing customer experiences is where you shine. Whether answering questions, applying food safety protocols, or planning events, you ensure companies get results that keep customers coming back.

Now, it’s time to create a cover letter that’s top-notch and enhances the reviewing experience for hiring managers so your skills stand out.

We’ve created a free cover letter builder and our hospitality cover letter examples based on what works in the industry today to get you back to providing excellent guest service that makes a difference in people’s lives.

Hospitality Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Why this cover letter works

• The pro tip here is to fortify your professional experiences with familiarity with industry-relevant platforms. You could highlight how IDeaS Revenue Management System enhanced room booking efficiency or how Expedia and Cloudbeds simplified different tasks. That paints a picture of a tech-savvy professional who understands the industry’s dynamics.

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Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifiting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Hotel Front Desk Receptionist Cover Letter Example

• Begin your piece with a touch of personal flair that grabs attention right off the bat and conclude by painting an inviting picture of what you bring to the table. While articulating your professional experiences, start with the most recent moving backward.

Concierge Cover Letter Example

• Perhaps you facilitated multilingual communication to break language barriers. Or your swift handling of reservations or your cultural awareness earned guests’ admiration. No doubt, managerial prowess is integral, but your knack for creating delightful experiences proves your worth even better.

Related cover letter examples

• Hospitality resume
• Housekeeping

How to Write an Effective Hospitality Cover Letter

Every hospitality role will have varying needs. For example, a travel-related position may require you to help plan itineraries, whereas a hotel may need you to help coordinate cleaning schedules.  

The best way to ensure success will be to review each hospitality job description and customize your cover letter based on the skills and experiences they’re seeking, such as customer service or vendor relations. 

Make a great first impression with the intro of your hospitality cover letter

You know first impressions matter. When someone walks into a hotel or restaurant, the friendliness of the staff and cleanliness of the space can make or break an experience. The same is true for your cover letter, so tailoring the intro to the customer service skills an organization is seeking and its mission will be crucial.

An added touch that’ll help you stand out is greeting a specific hospitality hiring manager by name, which you can often find in job descriptions or on the company’s website. It’s similar to the impact that learning your regular customers’ names will have so you can greet them each time they come in.

The opener below is a decent start, but it lacks some important details about specific skills the restaurant is seeking in a manager or how the applicant connects with their mission.

Try to make more of a connection than this! 

Having worked in the fine dining industry for some time, I’m eager to be applying for your restaurant manager position. I believe my skills will be a great fit for your company’s needs.

The opener below does a much better job outlining the applicant’s multilingual and diverse service skills that will make them a great fit for the concierge role at Mokara Hotel & Spa.

A great opener with tailored hospitality skills! 

Dear Mr. Miller,

The unison of the hospitality industry and multilingual communication forms an intriguing partnership. This interdependence, demonstrated by companies such as Mokara Hotel & Spa to ensure a tailored experience for their diverse clientele, is truly applause-worthy. To engage further with this intersection of service and language, I’m eagerly applying for the concierge position at Mokara Hotel & Spa.

Provide the right details in your hospitality cover letter’s body

With customer satisfaction being such a high priority, the results you achieve in hospitality roles matter a lot. 

You can emphasize your abilities in the body of your hospitality cover letter by including metrics-based examples of what you achieved in previous roles. 

For example, you could write about how you implemented a new training program that reduced service response times by 56%.  

A top-tier body paragraph with hospitality achievements! 

At Windsor Suites, I streamlined the email communication system and efficiently managed 230+ daily inquiries, reducing response time by 29%. I also spearheaded hotel-wide training on email etiquette and management, leading to improved guest communication and feedback rating.

Add the right finishing touches as you close your hospitality cover letter

Think of the closing of your cover letter like you’re wrapping things up with a guest where you want to ensure you’ve covered all their needs. 

In the form of a cover letter, this would include rephrasing how your top skills and connection to the company’s mission make you a great fit. For example, you could write about how you’ll use your email customer service skills to ensure efficient responses to all inquiries. 

Then, wrap things up by saying thank you and use a call to action, such as “I’m looking forward to discussing further how my customer service and supply management skills will fit in with your needs.” 

The example below is a decent start, but the applicant could add more details about the skills they bring as a receptionist and the spa’s mission that would help them stand out.

This sounds too generic! 

I’m eager to discuss further how my skills will make me a great receptionist at your spa. Thank you for your consideration. 

A closer like the one below that displays the applicant’s passion for customer service and knowledge of Philadelphia’s hospitality industry will work much better. 

A great closer connected to the hotel’s mission! 

At the Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel, I aspire to synergize my experience with your high service standards, creating an unforgettable experience for guests. My commitment to exceptional service and extensive knowledge of Philadelphia’s hospitality industry align me perfectly with your institution’s ethos. If you require any further information, do not hesitate to reach out. Thank you.

Isabella Bianchi

There are still ways you can stand out with minimal hospitality experience. You could include achievements from transferable experiences, such as other jobs involving skills like inventory management or customer service. Or, include educational achievements from obtaining a degree in hospitality management or related fields.  

Trying to match the tone of each job description will work best. It’ll show how you fit in with the culture and service standards of each hospitality organization, such as how you’ll provide upbeat service at a family-friendly restaurant. 

While you can use the same template, you should customize the details for each hospitality job you apply to. It’ll help you stand out when one organization needs you to help with catering, and another will have you focused on monitoring inventory records. 

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Hospitality Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Perfecting your hospitality cover letter could be the key to securing your dream job in this vibrant industry. This comprehensive guide will share priceless tips , provide real-life examples, and lead you down the path to success.

And so, read on and learn all about:

• Formatting your hospitality cover letter
• Crafting an effective cover letter header
• Writing an eye-catching cover letter headline
• Building a strong cover letter introduction
• Highlighting your skills and accomplishments in cover letter body paragraphs
• Writing a strong conclusion
• Avoiding common mistakes on a hospitality cover letter
• Average salary and job outlook for hospitality professionals
• Hospitality resources for job seekers

1. How to properly format your hospitality cover letter

The neatness and clarity of your hospitality cover letter are just as important as its content. Here's how you can format your cover letter to make it an engaging read.

• Start with the basics: A standard business letter format is a reliable choice. Your name and contact details should be at the top, followed by the date, and then the employer's name and contact information. 
• Choose a clear font: Steer clear of fancy fonts — stick with ones that are easy on the eyes. Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in 10-12 size is a good way to go. 
• Keep it short: Your cover letter should be concise and straight to the point. Aim to fit everything within half a page or about 250 words.
• Space it out: Using 1.5 or double spacing helps ensure your cover letter doesn't look cluttered. 
• Set your margins: Standard one-inch margins on all sides are typically the best bet for an organized appearance. 
• Break it down: Divide your cover letter into sections: introduction, main body, and conclusion. Each part should transition smoothly into the next.
• Sign off nicely: Wrap up your cover letter with your signature — just another slight personal touch to the document.

Now, with the proper formatting done, let's move on to the meat of your cover letter — the content.

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2. how to write an effective header for your hospitality cover letter .

The header of your cover letter is the very first thing an employer will see, so it's important to get it right. In essence, the header is your business card within the cover letter, containing crucial contact details about you and the hiring manager.

Your header should contain the following:

• Your full name
• Your complete address (though sometimes, city, and state will suffice)
• Phone number
• Professional email address
• Hiring manager’s full name and title
• The company’s name
• The company’s address

Here are examples showing incorrect and correct ways of writing a hospitality cover letter header:

Incorrect hospitality cover letter header example

John Doe [email protected] 08/14/2021

To: Hiring Manager XYZ Hotel

Why is this example weak? Here, the header misses out on key details such as the sender's complete address and contact number. What’s more, it doesn't specify the hiring manager's name and the company's address.

Correct hospitality cover letter header example

John Doe 123 Main Street Springfield, IL 62701 (217) 555-1234 [email protected] August 14, 2022

To: Ms. Jane Smith Hiring Manager XYZ Hotel 789 Central Avenue Springfield, IL 62701

Why is this a strong header? This version is complete and professional, providing all necessary details. The sender's full name, complete address, and contact details are at the top, followed by the current date. The hiring manager's name and company's details are clearly marked next.

A nicely formatted header sets the tone for the rest of your cover letter. Make it count!

3. How to craft a compelling cover letter headline

A headline in a cover letter is a short, catchy statement that grabs the reader's attention right away . An effective one previews what's to come and stirs interest. 

In crafting a powerful headline, infuse it with:

• Your main qualification
• Things you bring to the table
• How your skills align with the job
• Enthusiasm for the role and company

Weak hospitality cover letter headline example

Hospitality Professional Applying for Job

Why is this example incorrect? This headline is too vague. It doesn't specify what the role is, and fails to generate interest. 

Strong hospitality cover letter headline example

Experienced Hospitality Manager Ready to Boost Guest Satisfaction at XYZ Hotel

Why is this headline strong? It gets attention. It includes the title of the role, a key skill (boosting guest satisfaction), and the specific name of the company, showing enthusiasm and alignment with the targeted role.

So craft a headline that makes the hiring manager stop in their tracks, eager to read further. This is your moment to make a strong first impression.

4. How to customize your cover letter greeting

Casting a personalized greeting in your cover letter seamlessly paves the way for an engaging conversation. It reveals that you've taken an extra step to find out who you're writing to. Addressing them by name imparts immediate familiarity and interest in your letter .

So, where do you find the hiring manager's name? Get in the detective mode:

• Check the job listing carefully
• Visit the company's website 
• Leverage LinkedIn
• Call the company to ask

Examples of personalized greetings for your hospitality cover letter

• Dear Mr. Blake,
• Dear William Blake,
• Dear Hiring Manager Wiliam Blake

Yet, there may be times when the hiring manager's name isn't available. In these cases, steer away from generic greetings like "To whom it may concern". Here are better alternatives: 

• Dear Hiring Manager (a safe, gender-neutral option)
• Dear [Department] Team (shows your interest in the team you will be working with)
• Dear [Company Name] Recruiter 

Investing time in finding the hiring manager's name and personalizing your greeting will give your hospitality cover letter a head start. Indeed, often little details like these make a big difference.

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5. How to write a strong hospitality cover letter introduction

A compelling introduction is one of the most crucial aspects of your cover letter. It grabs the reader's attention from the word go and provides a snapshot of your professional journey. 

A successful introduction should include:

• A concise overview of your professional and academic background
• A clear statement about why you're applying for this position
• A mention of any mutual acquaintances, if applicable

Incorrect hospitality cover letter opening example 

I'm writing to apply for the position at your hotel. I have a degree in hospitality management and have worked in a hotel before.

Why does this intro fall flat? It fails to provide specific details about the professional journey, the reasons for applying, and the name of the position or the hotel.

Correct hospitality cover letter opening for an experienced professional

As an accomplished Hotel Manager with 7 years' experience in providing top-tier guest experiences, I am excited to apply for the Hospitality Manager position at XYZ Hotel. Our mutual acquaintance, Jane Doe, recommended this role to me and spoke highly of XYZ Hotel's commitment to quality service.

Why is this introduction strong? This introduction ticks all boxes; it details the experience, mentions the specific role, name-drops the hotel, explains the reason for applying, and includes a reference.

Correct cover letter opening for a recent graduate

As a recent graduate in Hospitality Management from Boston University with internship experience at prestigious hotels, I am enthusiastic about bringing fresh perspectives to the Hospitality Assistant role at XYZ Hotel. My academic exposure and hands-on experience have steeled my passion for providing guests with unforgettable experiences.

Why is this intro ideal for a fresh graduate? This portrays the candidate as a keen learner ready to transition from academic to professional life. It indicates notable achievements and how they align with the role sought.

Ultimately, your introduction must demonstrate your understanding of the job requirements, your eagerness for the role, and set the tone for the rest of the cover letter.

6. How to highlight your top skills and accomplishments as a hospitality professional

Pouring the most captivating part of your hospitality cover letter, the body is where you showcase your skills and accomplishments . It's where you list your ingredients that make you an ideal candidate.

Format this section into two or three short paragraphs or a combination of paragraphs and bullet points, making it easier to digest. 

Underline your skills that align directly with the job requirements. Here are some typical hospitality skills that shouldn’t miss in your cover letter:

• Customer service 
• Communication 
• Multitasking 
• Problem-solving 
• Flexibility 
• Attention to detail

You can’t go wrong in your body paragraphs if you:

• Celebrate your achievements:  Your cover letter is the place to shine. Relate your achievements to tangible percentages, numbers or specific milestones, if possible.
• Use clear and specific examples to highlight how you've applied these skills in the past.

Hospitality cover letter body paragraph example

At my previous position as Front Office Manager at ABC Hotel, I coordinated the team effectively, driving a 15% boost in staff productivity, which cascaded into higher guest satisfaction rates. 

Fret not if you lack professional experience. Focus on transferable skills, internships, or course projects that demonstrate your capabilities and commitment.

Fresh graduate’s cover letter body paragraph example

As a recent graduate from the Hospitality Management program at XYZ University, I bring a comprehensive understanding of hospitality industry dynamics. During my internship at ABC Hotel, I successfully project-managed a campaign promoting off-season visits, resulting in a noteworthy occupancy rate lift during these traditionally low seasons. 

Remember, your accomplishments and skills serve as the proof of your potential. Use them wisely and you'll have a hospitality cover letter that's tough to turn down.

Pro tip: Showcasing skills specifically tailored to the job qualifications increases chances of securing an interview. And so, highlighting hospitality skills in your cover letter that match the job description is a strategy that can significantly impact your chances of getting noticed.

7. How to persuasively end your hospitality cover letter

Much like the last goodnight of a well-hosted event, the concluding paragraph of your cover letter holds vital importance. It's your final pitch, a moment to cement the positive impression you've created throughout the letter.

A powerful conclusion should:

• Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position
• Recap why you're the best fit for the job
• Indicate your availability for further discussion and how you can be reached
• Strategically mention your plan for a follow-up
• And of course, it should end with a professional sign-off

Hospitality cover letter conclusion example

I am enthusiastic about the prospect of bringing my unique blend of skills and experience to XYZ Hotel as the Hospitality Manager. I am confident I can make significant contributions to your team and uplift the guest experience further. 

Please feel free to contact me at (123) 456-7890 or via email at [email protected] to arrange a convenient time to talk. Meanwhile, I look forward to a positive response and will follow up next week to discuss any potential next steps.

Thank you for considering my application. 

In essence, the conclusion is your final opportunity to communicate your desire, readiness, and aptitude for the role. Make the most of it, and you'll be that much closer to an interview.

8. How to avoid common mistakes on your hospitality cover letter

Even a minor mistake in your cover letter can cost you a job opportunity, so let's address some common blunders and discuss how to dodge them.

• Too long or too short: Avoid crafting an epic novel or a key-note speech. Aim for 250-400 words, which typically amounts to 3-4 concise paragraphs.
• Sending a generic letter: Carefully customize your cover letter for each job application. Highlight how your skills and experience align specifically with the job description provided.
• Focusing too much on education for experienced roles: For experienced professionals, the focus should be on relevant past job experiences, skills, and achievements. Educational details should be brief and secondary.
• Forgetting to proofread: Errors signal lack of attention to detail. Always proofread your letter multiple times, and consider asking a friend or using a digital tool to help with this.
• Being negative or apologetic: Never point out what you lack; rather, skillfully focus on showcasing what you can offer. 
• Incorrect or missing contact information: Ensure the personal details and contact information you provide are up-to-date and error-free. This is crucial for if and when the employer decides to contact you.
• Improper formatting: Maintain professional and clean formatting throughout. Bunched-up text is hard on the eyes. Make use of line breaks, bullet points, and adequate spacing.

By dodging these common pitfalls, you can ensure your hospitality cover letter is error-free, compelling, and showcases you as the best candidate for the job.

9. Average wage and job outlook for hospitality professionals

In terms of earnings and job prospects, the hospitality sector presents an appealing landscape. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the average hourly earnings for professionals within the hospitality and leisure sector stood at $21.36 as of October 2023.

In terms of job prospects, the picture is incredibly promising too. As a testament to the sector's vitality, leisure and hospitality had been adding an impressive average of 79,000 jobs per month in 2022. With this steady upward trend, opportunities for career growth and development in the hospitality field are clearly abundant.

In conclusion, the hospitality sector not only offers the possibility for a stable and rewarding income but also presents a bright job outlook, making it an excellent career choice for both budding and experienced professionals .

10. Hospitality resources for job seekers

As a job seeker in the hospitality industry, it's crucial to stay informed, and there are fantastic resources out there to help you achieve just that. Whether you're looking for job listings, industry news, networking opportunities, or career advice, here are some go-to platforms:

• HospitalityNet: A comprehensive resource offering industry news, job listings, events, and valuable market insights.
• Hcareers: A dedicated hospitality job board catering to all levels of job-seekers with opportunities from around the globe.
• eHotelier: This provides professional development resources, global hospitality job listings, and the latest industry news and insights.
• American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA): A renowned resource offering networking opportunities, updates on industry trends, and even advocacy resources.
• LinkedIn: Don’t underestimate this networking giant. It's a tremendous resource for job listings, industry updates, and a platform to connect with fellow professionals.
• Caterer.com: This is the UK's largest hospitality job board, offering job advertisements from some of the top employers in the industry. 
• Hospitality trends: Stay updated with the latest trends in the hospitality industry, from hotel design to customer service innovations.
• National Restaurant Association (NRA): If you're focused on the restaurant industry, the NRA is a must-follow for the latest news, learning resources, and events. 
• Cornell Hospitality Quarterly: Published by Sage in association with the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, this journal offers a wealth of academic and industry insights.

So dive in, soak up the wealth of information these resources offer, and accelerate towards a successful finish line in your hospitality job hunt.

Hospitality Cover Letter FAQ

No, it's best to customize each cover letter for the specific job to which you're applying. Address the unique requirements of each role to show you've thoroughly read the job description and understand what's needed.

It's generally a good idea to include a cover letter unless the job posting explicitly advises against it. A cover letter gives you another opportunity to sell yourself.

No, your cover letter and resume should complement each other, not replicate the exact same information. Your cover letter is an opportunity to explain in more detail the key professional experiences or skills listed briefly on your resume. Use it to demonstrate how these experiences or skills make you an ideal candidate for the job.

Unless the job posting specifically asks for this information, it's better to discuss salary expectations later, perhaps during an interview or job offer discussion.

It depends on what's requested in the job posting. You might attach it as a Word document or PDF, or paste it in the body of an email. Always follow the employer's instructions.

Martin Poduška

Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .

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4 Hospitality Cover Letter Examples

Hospitality professionals excel at creating welcoming environments, anticipating needs, and delivering exceptional experiences that leave lasting impressions. Similarly, your cover letter is your chance to create a warm introduction, anticipate the needs of the employer, and leave a memorable impression of your skills and dedication. In this guide, we'll delve into the best cover letter examples for Hospitality professionals, ensuring your application stands out and leaves a lasting, positive impression.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start a Hospitality cover letter is by addressing the hiring manager directly, if their name is known. If not, "Dear Hiring Manager" is a suitable alternative. Begin by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the role and the hospitality industry. For example, "I am excited to apply for the Front Desk Manager position at your esteemed hotel. With my extensive experience in customer service and passion for creating memorable guest experiences, I am confident I can contribute significantly to your team." This approach immediately establishes your interest and relevant skills.

Hospitality professionals should end a cover letter by summarizing their interest in the role and their relevant skills or experiences. They should also express enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the company. A strong closing might be, "I am excited about the possibility of bringing my unique skills and experiences to your team and am confident that I can contribute to the continued success of your establishment. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team." This ending is polite, shows eagerness, and invites further conversation. Always remember to end with your full name and contact information.

A cover letter for a hospitality position should ideally be about one page long. This length is enough to succinctly present your qualifications, experiences, and skills relevant to the job without overwhelming the hiring manager with too much information. Remember, the goal of the cover letter is to entice the reader to look at your resume for more details. It should be concise, well-structured, and tailored specifically to the role you're applying for in the hospitality industry.

Writing a cover letter with no experience in the hospitality industry can be challenging, but it's not impossible. Here's how you can approach it: 1. Start with a Strong Introduction: Begin your cover letter by introducing yourself and expressing your enthusiasm for the hospitality industry. Mention the specific role you're applying for and where you found the job listing. 2. Highlight Relevant Skills: Even if you don't have direct experience, you likely have skills that are relevant to the hospitality industry. These could include customer service, communication, problem-solving, or multitasking. Use specific examples from your past experiences (school, volunteer work, other jobs) to demonstrate these skills. 3. Show Your Passion: Hospitality is all about providing excellent service to guests. Show your passion for this by talking about why you're interested in the industry. This could be anything from a love of travel to a desire to create positive experiences for others. 4. Research the Company: Show that you've done your homework by mentioning something specific about the company that appeals to you. This could be their mission statement, their reputation for customer service, or even a specific initiative they've undertaken. 5. Close Strong: In your closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the role and your eagerness to bring your skills to the job. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your hope for the opportunity to further discuss your qualifications. 6. Professional Format: Remember to keep your cover letter professional. Use a standard business letter format, check your spelling and grammar, and keep it to one page. Remember, everyone starts somewhere. Even without direct experience, your enthusiasm and transferable skills can make a strong impression.

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Cover Letter for Waitress With No Experience: Ultimate Guide

By: Author Marcel Iseli

Posted on Last updated: April 8, 2023

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Seeking a job when you have no previous work experience is like finding a needle in a haystack: You have no idea where to start and what exactly to look for.

One of the go-to jobs sought by people without prior experience is being a waitress, which entails greeting guests, taking orders, serving food, waiting tables, refilling drinks, and sanitizing.

Although these tasks seem like a cakewalk on the surface, the job also necessitates dealing with more complicated situations such as multitasking and de-escalating agitated customers.

More so, before you could land an entry-level waitress position, you need to go through writing a compelling cover that would allow you to “sell yourself” to your potential employer.

So, why don’t we start by discovering how to do that?

How can we write a waitress cover letter if we have no experience?

To write a waitress cover letter even without prior work experience, we must use a polite yet assertive tone in highlighting our willingness to work on a flexible schedule, customer service know-how, linguistic fluency, sanitation, as well as physical capabilities in our cover letter.

Guidelines in writing a waitress cover letter (no experience)

Although you can increase your chances of landing a job when you have previous professional experience , it is still possible to get one despite not having any.

All you have to do is to start with effectively demonstrating your worth as a person in your application documents such as your cover letter and resume .

Writing a cover letter for any entry-level position entails understanding the purpose of a cover letter , as well as knowing cover letter dos and don’ts .

Meanwhile, getting the hang of what counts as work experience on a resume is also essential for creating the latter document mentioned.

Once you become aware of every nook and cranny of these writing strategies, you can already start listing down your core skills and qualities that would make you an asset to your target organization.

In the food and beverage industry, the necessary skills sought by employers are rooted in hospitality management, physical capabilities, and sanitation.

Hence, you must be able to present these themes on your cover letter in order to get shortlisted.

Here’s a breakdown of the three parts of a cover letter for an entry-level waitress position:

Introduction: Summarizing your worth

In your introductory paragraph, you must be able to encapsulate your value or worth as potential wait staff in the establishment you are applying for.

You can start with a formal greeting, followed by the intent of your letter, and the reasons why you can be an asset to your target employer. This can be done in a three-sentence format.

Do not forget to mention the exact position being applied for (e.g., entry-level waitress), the informational source of the job listing, as well as the company you are applying for.

One of the most popular job advertisement websites used in the USA is Craigslist. So, it is also crucial that you know how to reply to a Craigslist job posting when and if you decide to seek a waitress job through this platform.

Moreover, you should also be able to know how to format the inside address section at the top of your cover letter.

The inside address’ key elements include the application date, hiring manager’s name and position (if applicable), the company name, and the company’s complete address.

After this, you also need to use a formal salutation that should contain the name of the hiring manager, as much as possible.

Not being able to write the hiring manager’s name may imply that you have not gone through the extra mile of online searching or calling the company beforehand that could negatively affect the employer’s hiring decision.

If the classic “dear x” salutation doesn’t feel right for you, our other article on “Dear Sir or Madam” alternatives could help you get rid of “uncreativity feelings” in writing this part.

Here’s a complete sample containing all the writing elements explained above:

Example (introduction):

August 08, 2021

Matthew Petterson

Hiring Manager

Veggie Valley, Inc.

111 Millbrook Rd.

Grafton, WI 53024

Dear Mr. Petterson:

Greetings to you, sir! This letter is in response to your entry-level Waitress job posting for Veggie Valley on Craigslist. I can be an asset to the food and beverage services industry not only because of my education in Hospitality Management but also for my propensity for working in an agile work atmosphere. 

Body: Supporting your claim

Next, you must be able to elaborate and support your initial claim stated in your introductory paragraph since it is only designed to offer a glimpse of your value as a potential employee.

Here, you can list down specific aspects of your life that would make you suitable for the job role, such as education, training programs, and soft skills.

Besides your cover letter, listing an internship on a resume , if any, is also pivotal in landing a job because it is the closest real-world experience for any student applicant.

Research work experience on a resume is also another vital element that a recruiter may find attractive, and hence, remember to write it down if you have done any in the past.

Furthermore, bulleted writing format increases visual attention to items in a list. Thus, you can make your cover letter even more appealing by creating a list of your potential contributions in bullet form.

As you don’t have previous work experience, try to focus on the key soft and transferable skills that you have and are capable of doing, as well as the outcome or result of such skills.

You can structure your sentences in such a way that they become more about your prospective employer rather than yourself, especially in your bulleted list.

Here, you can highlight your schedule flexibility, physical ability, communication, and customer service skills to increase your chances of getting hired.

Pro tip: Make sure to make your cover letter as grammatically flawless as possible if you are claiming communication skills as one of your top qualities.

Here’s how you can do all of the above-mentioned details:

Example (body):

With my knowledge in culinary arts, housekeeping, basic finance, etc., I believe I can be of help in your reputable company, especially with the guidance of your esteemed employees.

To help you with your hiring decision, here are the things that I can offer:

• You will never worry about attendance issues because I am a morning person who is open to working in a flexible work schedule.
• You can rely upon the fact that I can sustain long hours of standing and walking due to my spending an average of four hours per week jogging and weightlifting.
• You will not have a hard time giving me instructions because I possess excellent communication skills with a native-like proficiency in English, as well as basic Spanish and French.
• You can trust that I am capable of immediately understanding and dealing with social cues because I am a detail-oriented person who loves making people feel comfortable at all times.

If you noticed, language abilities have been included above, specifically as the third item in the list.

Knowing how to highlight language abilities on a cover letter can also amplify your chances of becoming a waitress, as well as in other jobs that may require such skill.

A closely related job one can get in the food and beverage services industry is the barista position, which is also extremely salient in today’s society.

So please don’t hesitate to study and learn how to write a barista cover letter with no experience for you to have another option.

Conclusion: Suggesting an interview

Now that you’ve finished the intro and the body, you may already end your cover letter using an assertive yet still polite tone.

You can do so by expressing interest in an interview at the convenience of your prospective employer, prompting the addressee to go through the rest of your application documents, and listing your contact details.

Please do not forget the other crucial parts of a cover letter such as the complimentary close and signature.

“Yours respectfully” is used as the complimentary close in the example below, but feel free to choose “warmest regards” or “sincerely yours” as other formal alternatives.

Here’s an example conclusion for your reference:

Example (conclusion):

I am eager to discuss my application further at your earliest convenience. My resume and relevant certificates are also attached to this email for your reference. Please find my contact details listed below.

Yours respectfully,

Emily Harrison

(123) 456-789

[email protected]

Waitress with no experience cover letter full sample

Here’s the full sample for you when applying for a waitress job with no experience! Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions on “Cover letter for waitress with no experience”

How can we write a resume for a waitress with no experience.

To write a resume without prior work experience, we can list down our educational background, research work, internships, affiliations, training programs. Make sure to also list down at least two references especially people from the food and beverage industry who can be contacted by your prospective employer for testimonials.

How can we explain that we are willing to learn even if we don’t have any experience?

To demonstrate our willingness to learn even without prior work experience, we can do some online research about the target company and its decision-makers and compliment them in the cover letter, as well as during the interview. This would exemplify that we have “done our homework,” which is concrete proof of being willing to learn.

What skills are necessary for applying for a waitress position?

The necessary skills for a waitress job role are hospitality management or customer service, physical abilities, multitasking, schedule flexibility, sanitation, and customer agitation de-escalation.

Even though there are no absolutes in job seeking, we can increase the probability of getting hired for any position if we know the nuances of job application procedures.

Writing a persuasive cover letter is nothing less than a game-changer in this activity, and hence, learning how to structure one in relation to the job description should set you apart from other candidates.

Hey fellow Linguaholics! It’s me, Marcel. I am the proud owner of linguaholic.com. Languages have always been my passion and I have studied Linguistics, Computational Linguistics and Sinology at the University of Zurich. It is my utmost pleasure to share with all of you guys what I know about languages and linguistics in general.

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Wait Staff Cover Letter Examples

A great wait staff cover letter can help you stand out from the competition when applying for a job. Be sure to tailor your letter to the specific requirements listed in the job description, and highlight your most relevant or exceptional qualifications. The following wait staff cover letter example can give you some ideas on how to write your own letter.

or download as PDF

Cover Letter Example (Text)

Amada Schulkers

(636) 919-9609

[email protected]

Dear Mr. Fruendt,

I am writing to express my interest in the Wait Staff position at Olive Garden, as advertised. With five years of dedicated experience in the hospitality industry, primarily at The Cheesecake Factory, I have honed my skills in providing exceptional customer service, maintaining high standards of cleanliness, and working efficiently in a fast-paced environment. My passion for fostering a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring customer satisfaction aligns perfectly with Olive Garden's commitment to creating memorable dining experiences.

During my tenure at The Cheesecake Factory, I developed a knack for quickly adapting to various customer service scenarios while maintaining a professional and friendly demeanor. I understand the importance of teamwork and communication in a restaurant setting, and I have consistently received positive feedback from both customers and management for my ability to contribute to a cohesive and productive team environment.

My experience has also equipped me with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously without compromising the quality of service. I have a thorough understanding of menu offerings, which allows me to make informed recommendations and assist guests in making selections that enhance their dining experience. My commitment to upholding the highest standards of service is unwavering, and I am eager to bring this level of dedication to Olive Garden.

I am excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to the continued success of Olive Garden. I am confident that my background, combined with my enthusiasm for the hospitality industry, will make me a valuable asset to your restaurant. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my experience and skills align with the needs of your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I hope to have the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to Olive Garden and the delightful experiences of your guests.

Warm regards,

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