5 Tips for landing your first job as a line cook
Do you hate the thought of working in an office or retail setting? Maybe being stuck behind a computer or a counter is just not your vibe. You might be looking for an active, hands-on profession that lets your creativity shine. Cooking attracts people with this mindset because of the fast paced environment and low(ish) barrier to entry. Before you know it, you’ll be scrubbing fryolators and saying “heard”. But before we get to that, what does it take to get the job in the first place?
Looking for your first job as a cook can be intimidating. Chances are you are competing with others who already have experience or are in culinary school. The truth is, the odds are stacked against you without any previous cooking experience. But there are some things you can do to prepare for the job search and eventually land your first interview.
1. Write A Cover Letter
Most people applying for kitchen jobs do not bother writing a cover letter. If your resume lacks kitchen experience, it can be an opportunity to stand out and explain why you deserve a position. Use the cover letter to showcase relevant skills and demonstrate your professionalism.
2. Look The Part
When you do eventually land that interview, you want to present yourself in a professional manner. Many people that apply to kitchen jobs do not bother dressing up for interviews. While this is not a requirement, you have a better chance of standing out if you show up in a clean chef coat or business-casual attire. Show them you mean business!
3. Learn The Basics
Practice some of the skills you will need at home. Research basic cooking skills online and get a sense of what the job will entail. Get yourself a decent knife and a few onions, and practice slicing and dicing. If you really want to stand out, take the time to get online certifications such as Servsafe.
4. Do Your Homework
Knowledge of the restaurant or company you are applying to can help make an impression during an interview. Even just a few minutes of research can produce some great talking points. Research the type of cuisine that they serve, hours of operation, any notable venues nearby, or whatever makes the restaurant unique. Pick a dish from their menu and tell them what you like about it.
5. Ask Questions
There are plenty of great questions to ask in a line cook interview. How many cooks are on during service? How many stations are on the line? What is the management structure? In my experience, most people do not have any questions prepared at the end of the interview. The ones that do often receive consideration for a second interview. This is your chance to show your potential employer that you are truly interested, and that their restaurant is not just another box checked off on a job search website.
When searching for any job without previous experience, you must go the extra mile in order to compete with others. In kitchens, one of the most valuable traits of any cook is reliability and punctuality. You do not have to be the best cook, you just have to show up and be willing to work hard and learn. If the kitchen is well managed, you will be taught everything you need to know to succeed. You can do it!
