The private club industry is one of the oldest and most well-established segments of the hospitality industry. In fact, in many ways, the venerable institution of the private club was responsible for creating and popularizing fine dining, a trend that many analysts credit as fueling the hospitality industry’s super-charged growth in recent years.
After a period of slow but steady growth in the 1990s, analysts say the private club industry is now positioned to take off. By updating its basic business model and introducing new types of clubs and membership options, the industry is now entering a new phase of unprecedented growth and expansion.
Now Hiring the Best of the Best
In order to make good on these ambitious plans, private clubs around the world are gearing up for major recruitment efforts. There’s just one catch: these establishments pride themselves on top-quality service, so they’re looking for the cream of the crop. If you can make the cut, the rewards are plentiful. Servers at top yacht clubs, country clubs, golf clubs, dining clubs, and other members-only facilities can often pull in more than $1000 in gratuities on busy nights.
Despite the obvious benefits, private club employment isn’t for everyone. These establishments are a unique breed unto themselves, and the process of learning the code and getting up to speed can be very challenging. If you’re thinking about exploring opportunities in private club industry, here are a few points to consider before you take the plunge.
Is the Private Club Industry Right for You?
Are you adaptable?
Most private clubs offer at least four different types of service: a mid-range grill, a casual snack bar that caters to members using the outdoor sports facilities, a banquet facility, and a fine dining hall. Some also offer stand-alone cocktail bars. If your past experience includes more than one of these arenas, you’ll be more likely to succeed in the varied club setting.
Can you learn the ropes quickly in a new setting?
Clubs pride themselves on top-quality service, and there’s often little tolerance for errors and rookie mistakes. If you’re confident in your ability to get up to speed quickly in an environment that can be very different from a public restaurant, the club setting might be a great place for you.
Are you passionate about excellent customer service?
Service is king in the club setting, and members expect and demand only the very best. If you’re a stickler for detail and you pride yourself on impeccable service, you’re a shoo-in for success in the club setting.
Can you handle high-volume work?
Whether it’s the weekday dinner rush or one of the frequent weddings or banquets, high-volume work is just a fact of life in the private club industry. If being “in the weeds” leaves you feeling flustered and uncomfortable, you might not be well-suited to this industry. On the other hand, if you can sail through crunch-time with grace and aplomb, this might just be the right place for you.
Are you in it for the long haul?
Perhaps more than any other segment of the hospitality industry, clubs tend to reward workers who dedicate long stretches of their careers to one establishment. Many club members are regulars who take many, if not most, of their meals at the club, so establishing a long-term rapport with these guests can be very rewarding. Although seasonal and temporary positions are available at some clubs, the private club industry is one of the best places to plan an extended career path.
Are you ready to “join the club”? Explore new opportunities in the private club industry on Hcareers today. Good luck!