The decision of whether to include experience in the food service industry on a professional resume depends heavily on several factors, including the candidate’s overall experience, the specific job being sought, and how the experience is presented. For example, an entry-level candidate might highlight customer service skills and the ability to work under pressure gained in a restaurant. A seasoned professional, however, might choose to omit such experience if it doesn’t align with their current career trajectory.
Including service industry experience can demonstrate valuable transferable skills. These roles often require individuals to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, handle stressful situations with composure, and communicate effectively with diverse groups of people. Such skills are highly sought after in various professions and can be beneficial even if the target role isn’t directly related to food service. Historically, such experience might have been undervalued, but the modern workplace increasingly recognizes the importance of soft skills developed in these environments.
