Moving from IT to hospitality

Question

I'm looking for advice regarding a career change from IT to the hospitality industry. After 14 years in IT and an outstanding record of achievement in team leadership and supervision, I'm seeking hotel work that will allow me to put my supervisory skills to good use, with a view to progressing into management.

So far IÁ¢Â€Â™ve been very disappointed by the response from the industry, as several applications and half a dozen letters of enquiry regarding suitable positions and training have been completely ignored, leading me to believe that such a change of career is simply not possible. IÁ¢Â€Â™ve been applying for supervisor and trainee supervisor positions. What can I do to improve my chances?

What the expert says

David Goldfarb, director, MaydayExec

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Look at the wording of your applications and letters. IT is sometimes seen as an industry that lacks people skills, so in your letters accentuate your interaction skills and the results you have achieved through working with other people. Highlight achievements, particularly meeting and beating project deadlines. A day in catering is full of deadlines, so someone who is organised and can consistently meet deadlines is highly prized. Look for a catering consultancy that will work with you to achieve your goal. A good consultant will promote you as a person and not just depend on your CV. Think of friends and acquaintances that are already working in catering and tap into their knowledge and networks.