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How to become a Restaurant Manager?

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Top Answer
Talent.com talent.com
Answered December 01 2021
Career Expert at Talent.com
Most Restaurant Managers start their careers by learning the daily hustle and bustle of a restaurant environment, either in front of house position such as a Server or Bartender or a back-of-house position like a Sous Chef. They gradually work their way up to supervisor positions and then eventually get a role in management. 

 That being said, many culinary schools, technical schools, or vocational schools offer programs in restaurant management. These certifications can be helpful if you’re looking to work in a higher-end restaurant or hotel. These programs offer courses in nutrition, food safety, management, and labor law.  Many programs also contain an internship component that allows students to gain real-world experience.

Regardless, it is unlikely that you will get a position as a Restaurant Manager without working in some other capacity in food preparation and service. The stripes you earn in a busy dinner service trenches are the most valuable asset you can bring to a management position. 

What can help you become a Restaurant Manager
  • Learn how to stay calm in a crisis
No two days in a restaurant are the same. Someone will call in sick last minute, the wine cellar will flood, or your seafood restaurant will run out of scallops. Your staff will be looking at you to have a cool, calm, and confident approach to the crisis and will pick up on your energy at that moment. 
  • Learn how to be proactive
Being proactive, as opposed to reactive, is a crucial leadership skill you will need to succeed in the restaurant industry. This means staying on top of staffing needs, inventory, and menu changes. 
  • Prioritize staff retention
Restaurants have been hit especially hard by staffing issues due to labor shortages and the COVID-19 pandemic. Hiring and training staff is a time-consuming and expensive process. Make their retention your top priority by offering them a positive and welcoming work environment where their ideas are valued and management is on their side. 
Easteregg!