Dining Room Host/Hostess Onboarding Checklist

Dining Room Host/Hostess Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Dining Room Host/Hostess starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Hospitality onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Dining Room Host/Hostess, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Dining Room Host/Hostess onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Dining Room Host/Hostess Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company policies and procedures: The dining room host/hostess should receive a comprehensive overview of the company’s policies and procedures, including dress code, attendance, customer service standards, and safety protocols. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated trainer.

2. Familiarization with the dining area layout: The host/hostess should be given a tour of the dining area, including the location of tables, chairs, restrooms, emergency exits, and any other relevant areas. This task is usually performed by a senior host/hostess or a manager.

3. Introduction to the reservation system: The host/hostess should be trained on how to use the reservation system effectively, including making, modifying, and canceling reservations. They should also be familiarized with any specific features or functions of the system. This task is typically performed by a senior host/hostess or a manager.

4. Understanding seating arrangements and table management: The host/hostess should learn how to efficiently manage seating arrangements, ensuring that guests are seated promptly and appropriately. They should be trained on how to balance table turnover, accommodate special requests, and handle large parties. This task is usually performed by a senior host/hostess or a manager.

5. Learning the menu and daily specials: The host/hostess should be provided with detailed information about the menu offerings, including descriptions of dishes, ingredients, and any allergens. They should also be informed about daily specials, promotions, and any changes to the menu. This task is typically performed by a senior host/hostess or a manager.

6. Understanding the POS system: The host/hostess should receive training on how to use the point-of-sale (POS) system, including taking orders, processing payments, and generating receipts. They should also be familiarized with any specific features or functions of the system. This task is usually performed by a senior host/hostess or a manager.

7. Customer service training: The host/hostess should undergo customer service training to ensure they can provide a positive and welcoming experience to guests. This may include learning how to greet and seat guests, handle complaints or special requests, and maintain a friendly and professional demeanor. This task is typically performed by a senior host/hostess or a manager.

8. Health and safety protocols: The host/hostess should be trained on health and safety protocols, including proper hand hygiene, food handling procedures, and emergency response procedures. They should also be informed about any specific safety measures in place at the establishment. This task is usually performed by a senior host/hostess or a manager.

9. Introduction to team members and their roles: The host/hostess should be introduced to other team members, including servers, bartenders, kitchen staff, and managers. They should learn about each person’s role and how they collaborate to provide a seamless dining experience. This task is typically performed by a senior host/hostess or a manager.

10. Shadowing experienced host/hostess: The new host/hostess should have the opportunity to shadow an experienced host/hostess to observe their workflow, interactions with guests, and problem-solving skills. This allows them to learn from practical examples and gain confidence in their role. This task is usually performed by a senior host/hostess or a manager

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Dining Room Host/Hostess checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Dining Room Host/Hostess up to speed and working well in your Hospitality team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.