Hire Caterers
Caterers deliver so much more than just food and drinks. They will take care of design elements, procure the right linens and tablecloths, and handle set-up and clean up for you. All your guests need to do is enjoy the event.
In hiring a caterer, the hunt begins with drafting an enticing job description. For an eye-catching job posting, hiring managers should be clear, concise, and detailed. Is prior experience a must or a plus? Is there a special cuisine that a caterer must be an expert in? Carefully outline the position's responsibilities as well as requirements. If you are looking to hire locally or within a specific area, include that in the job description to filter for your ideal candidate. Keep in mind that the job description should be more than just a list of responsibilities. Make sure to highlight what you can offer the candidate as well, whether it is advancement opportunities, a great company culture, or extra perks.
Now that you have a job description written, how do you get the word out? Post your job vacancy on sites where your ideal candidates are likely to see it. There are niche online groups, online job boards, and hiring platforms where you can increase the odds that your job description will be seen by your ideal candidate.
Caterer Responsibilities
From a general standpoint, a caterer prepares, transports, and provides food for weddings, conferences, celebrations, or any kind of social gathering or event. Whether the event is large or small, a caterer is engaged by a client to ensure that the food and service meet food quality and sanitation standards.
A caterer is responsible for developing and signing contracts with clients that serve as a blueprint for both parties’ expectations. The contract should include all the details of the event such as: event date, time for set-up and clean up, headcount, menu, table arrangement, design. The caterer plans a course menu for guests and takes note of any special dietary precaution or guidelines that the client may require. Depending on the contract, a caterer may arrange one or two food tasting sessions with a client before finalizing the menu for each event to ensure that all food items meet the client’s expectations.
Sourcing and procurement of ingredients, tables, and all other equipment are handled by the caterer to ensure the quality of food and event requirements set by the client are met. Additionally, a caterer is expected to manage food preparation, transportation, overall food service, and clean up for the event. A caterer may have several key people as part of the team and may delegate tasks as needed.
Caterer Skills and Qualifications
As someone who must work well in a fast-paced restaurant environment, the caterer must be highly organized with expert attention to detail, a professional demeanor, and a friendly attitude. Moreover, the ideal candidate must be knowledgeable of food preparation, techniques, and quality standards as well as transport and storage of perishable goods. Price and cost management experience is advantageous.
A restaurant may require a high school diploma or GED, and may also prioritize further certifications in food safety training. In terms of work background, prior customer service experience acquired in a restaurant setting or food catering may be required. Lastly, the ideal candidate should be available to work in shifts, on weekends, and on holidays.
There is a lot that can go into planning and executing an event. With the right caterer, you can be sure that food will be fantastic and guests will go home satisfied.
