Hosts/Hostesses
Overview
Introduction
Hosts and hostesses greet customers, ask them about seating preferences, guide them to their table, and give them menus. They answer phone calls, take reservations, answer questions and make sure that guests are happy with their dining experience. Hosts and hostesses may take payment for guest checks. They are also known as maitreds, restaurant hosts/hostesses, and dining room hosts. Approximately 435,600 hosts and hostesses are employed in the United States.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
The pay scale for hosts and hostesses varies based on the specific restaurant for which the individual works, its size, prestige, popularity, and geographic location. Other factors affecting earnings include the individual’s responsibilities and experience, as well as his or her personality.
The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the median income for hosts and hostesses in restaurant...
Work Environment
Hosts and hostesses work in restaurants, coffee shops, cocktail lounges, private clubs, and similar establishments. According to the Web site Snagajob.com, more than 75 percent of hosts and hostesses work part time. Night, weekend, and holiday shifts are required.
Although many restaurants are indoors, some have outdoor facilities. Some restaurants are very noisy, while others are quiet ...
Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) predicts little or no change in employment for hosts and hostesses from 2023 through 2033. Despite this prediction, job opportunities will be good because the field is large (435,600 workers in 2023) and many workers leave this occupation each year for better-paying careers.
Hosts and hostesses with related work experience and excellent customer service...
