Hospitality runs on teams. A kitchen, bar or front desk only works when everyone turns up, does their part and passes on information. That means shift reliability, clear handovers and sharing side duties such as restocking.
Why it matters
When someone is late or absent without warning, colleagues cover two jobs and guests wait longer. Reliable staff earn trust and more responsibility.
Key ideas
Ready, not just present
Being on time means changed and on the floor at your start time, not just walking in.
Clear handovers
Before you leave, tell the next person what is unfinished, such as a table with an allergy or a guest waiting for a taxi.
Shared duties
Polishing, refilling and cleaning are everyone's job. Skip yours and someone else must finish it.
Step by step
- 1
Check the rota and confirm your start time.
- 2
Arrive early enough to be ready on time.
- 3
Note specials, bookings and shortages at the briefing.
- 4
Tell your supervisor before taking a break.
- 5
Hand over open tasks clearly before you finish.
Do
- Report illness or delays early, as your venue requires.
- Check for rota changes before each shift.
- Respect every department, including kitchen porters and cleaners.
Common mistakes
- Don't swap shifts without your manager's approval.
- Don't leave your closing duties for the morning team.
- Don't finish early without agreeing it first.
The situation
Your shift ends at 11 pm. Table 6 wants the bill, and table 9's mains are still in the kitchen.
What a professional does
You tell your replacement, 'Table 6 wants the bill. Table 9's mains are still cooking, and one guest has a nut allergy.' Then you introduce them to both tables.
Useful phrases
“I'm finishing now. Here's what's still open in my section.”
“I'm running ten minutes late. I'll be there by six.”
Pro tip
On your first day, save your manager's number and the absence procedure in your phone.
Quick check
You wake up ill two hours before your shift. What should you do?
Think about it, then show the answer
Contact your manager straight away, following the absence procedure, so they have time to find cover.