The Art of Hospitality

Have you stopped recently and thought about what makes hospo such a special industry to work in?

When you take a moment to think about the premise of why the industry exists, hospitality has a pretty remarkable place in society. The impact you're having on delivering delight to the people you come into contact with each day is probably bigger than you realise.  

Hospitality is made up of unique elements that, when you add them together, can create an experience of wonder, escape, safety and celebration.  We spoke to a mix of hospitality workers and recipients who recall beautiful memories that reflect the Art of Hospitality.

Human Connection

At it’s core, hospitality is about human connection, making people feel welcome, valued or cared for.

“I remember when my cousin and I first moved to London from Australia when we were about 23. One day she came running back from our local coffee shop with a huge smile on her face and she said “The coffee shop guy remembered my name and order”. Now you might think, yes, that’s the job of a good barista, but this was a big deal for us. When you’re homesick and feeling isolated on the other side of the world from your family and friends, having someone recognise you and acknowledge you makes you feel part of a community, an inner circle.  That’s why my cousin had the big goofy smile. That memory still brings a smile to my face 15+ years on”.   Clare, Counsellor

Comfort

There’s such an impressive art to making a complete stranger feel warm and comfortable in your presence, in a place they may have never visited before or perhaps visit every day. The beautiful balance of good music, great lighting, a friendly smile and a meal that warms your insides or a cold beer that cools your brow. What other industry has the opportunity to bring all the human senses to life in one short interaction with a stranger? And yet hundreds of hospo venues across the country do it day in and day out.

“As a hopso worker, there isn’t any better feeling than seeing a customer take in all the warmth and comfort you’re offering them and receiving a compliment in return to show their appreciation”.  Sam, Coffee Shop Owner

Knowing

There is no other profession that can anticipate someone else’s needs better than a hospo professional. The attention to detail that is delivered in hospitality, the level of care and selflessness leaves a lot to be desired. The coolest thing to witness is how naturally it comes to so many in the industry.

“Food and drink is a basic human need but serving a meal to someone can break down barriers be it cultural or language. There’s nothing I love more than being in a different country and hand gesturing to the chef my appreciation for his dedication to my meal or the smiles shared with a waiter who has anticipated my every need”.    George Stone, Father of 2, previous international adventurer

Memory Makers

The hospitality industry provides the foundation for eternal memories to be created. When you think about it, so many of life's milestones have been celebrated in a fabulous restaurant or bar.

“I still remember the feeling of being in a buzzy city restaurant toasting to love and our future after my boyfriend proposed to me. I remember the wait staff making us feel like we were the first ones ever to get engaged.  It doesn’t always have to be a grand occasion. Some of my most important secrets have been shared with loved ones in my local coffee shop”.  Josie Smith, Florist & Designer

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It takes an incredibly special team of people to work together and bring the qualities of Human Connection, Comfort, Knowing and Memory Making to life.

Have you got the right team in place to make your customers talk about the memories you helped them create for years to come?  Get in touch with rikta today.