Host - The Markham Hotel

Lodging and Leisure Investments•Gulfport, MS

just now

About The Position

Position Summary: The Host is essential in creating a welcoming and smooth dining experience for guests, managing the flow of seating, and maintaining organization at the front of the restaurant. Successful candidates should have excellent customer service skills, a friendly demeanor, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently while staying calm in a busy environment.

Requirements

Education: Some High School, High School diploma or equivalent (preferred).
Hospitality or customer service training is a plus.
Experience: Previous experience in customer service or hospitality (preferred).
Familiarity with reservation and waitlist management systems is a plus.
Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong organizational abilities and time management skills.
Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.
Friendly and approachable with a focus on delivering great customer service.
Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for long periods and walk around the dining area.
Ability to lift and carry up to 15-20 lbs, such as menus or guest coats.
Ability to work in a busy, sometimes noisy, and high-energy environment.
May work both indoor and outdoor.
Work Environment: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, especially during peak dining hours (weekends, holidays, etc.).
Shifts may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the restaurant's schedule.

Nice To Haves

Hospitality or customer service training is a plus.
Previous experience in customer service or hospitality (preferred).
Familiarity with reservation and waitlist management systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

Guest Greeting and Seating: Greet guests warmly and promptly as they arrive at the restaurant.
Seat guests based on availability, party size, and special requests, ensuring a smooth flow of seating arrangements.
Maintain a friendly and professional demeanor throughout the guest's experience.
Reservation and Waitlist Management: Manage reservations, confirming details with guests and accurately updating reservation systems.
Maintain the waitlist and communicate estimated wait times to guests clearly and respectfully.
Notify servers and managers when tables are ready, ensuring quick and efficient seating.
Customer Service: Provide guests with information about the restaurant, including menu details and wait times.
Answer phone calls and assist with reservation inquiries or general questions.
Address guest concerns or complaints promptly and professionally, escalating to management when necessary.
Organization and Communication: Maintain an organized and clean host stand, including managing reservation logs and menus.
Coordinate with the kitchen and server team to manage seating arrangements, especially during busy times.
Ensure effective communication with servers to ensure guests are promptly attended to after being seated.
Guest Experience: Ensure a positive first impression of the restaurant, offering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Assist in creating a pleasant and efficient environment for guests throughout their visit.
Offer guests assistance with coat checks or directions as needed.
Team Support: Collaborate with other team members, including servers, kitchen staff, and management, to ensure smooth operations.
Help other team members during peak periods, including setting up for events or assisting with seating.
Maintaining Cleanliness and Organization: Ensure that the front-of-house area, including the entrance and waiting area, is clean and presentable.
Keep track of and maintain guest flow, ensuring minimal wait times and a smooth seating processes from the moment they enter the restaurant.