Host / Hostess - AH

Position Summary

The Host/Hostess position is responsible for welcoming the guests upon arrival as well as greeting them when departing, always with a warm and attentive demeanor. A host/hostess is the first and last person a guest sees, so it’s always important to make them feel welcome!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

• Interact with guests in a friendly and efficient manner as they come in and leave; ensure guests’ complete satisfaction by exceeding their expectations – this includes ensuring the table is clean and that utensils, napkins, and other needs have been provided.
• Manage the reservation software, seating guests promptly and efficiently, and maintaining an organized seating chart.
• Observe tables and keep track of clean, dirty, and occupied tables.
• Take guest information for the waiting list and quote wait time to guests accurately when tables are not immediately available.
• Greet and seat guests and present menus, or QR coasters.
• Clean, organize, and stock menus at the host/hostess stand.
• Answer phone calls, take reservations, and carry out orders, as well as provide information about the restaurant.
• Fill to-go orders, if applicable.
• Understand and follow the food allergy procedure and special orders/restrictions.
• Verifies that the food is correct based upon what the customer ordered and to customers’ satisfaction, if incorrect or unsatisfied notify the manager on duty.
• Maintain complete knowledge of the restaurant’s food and beverage preparation and menu, with the ability to answer customer questions.
• Work as a team with all personnel to maintain an effective atmosphere and an efficient food and beverage service.
• Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• Report to work in a neat and clean uniform; maintain well-groomed hair and personal hygiene as established by company policy.
• Basic reading and writing skills.
• Must be able to determine wait time based on the company’s procedures.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Multi-task oriented.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Must visually scan the restaurant for clean, unoccupied tables.
• Comply and execute all safety and sanitation guidelines and procedures.
• Encourage customers to join the Shakou rewards program if they are not currently signed up or remind customers who have the rewards program what benefits are available.
• Ability to remain calm when dealing with unruly and argumentative patrons.
• Promote a positive and collaborative employee culture designed to support customer needs.

Education and Experience

• No previous host/hostess experience is necessary.
• Depending on experience, could be required to shadow another host/hostess as training.
• Must pass a written test regarding Shakou’s menu.