Why Working In Hospitality Is More Than Just A Job

In the bustling world of hospitality, there’s one undeniable truth: no two days are ever the same. As a pub owner, I can attest that every shift brings something new—whether it’s the challenge of managing a really busy evening or helping a new team member gain their confidence. But it’s this variety that makes working in a pub such a rewarding experience, offering a range of benefits that often go unnoticed.

A Unique and Dynamic Work Environment

Hospitality is all about being adaptable. Very few jobs in a pub are unlearnable, but the magic lies in managing multiple tasks simultaneously. It's like plate spinning—every great pub worker knows how to balance taking orders, serving drinks, and engaging with customers, often all at the same time. It’s not just about doing one thing well; it’s about handling the hustle and thriving under pressure. That’s what makes working in a pub such a brilliant training ground for life.

Meeting People From All Walks of Life

One of the most fulfilling aspects of this industry is the people you meet. Whether they’re across the bar or working beside you, pubs attract a diverse range of individuals from all walks of life. The variety is endless: you may serve regulars who’ve been visiting for years or tourists stopping in for a pint. Each day offers a new connection, whether it's a quick chat, a new friendship, or a lesson in understanding someone else's world. This diversity enriches the pub experience not just for guests, but for staff too.

Building Lifelong Skills

Working in hospitality helps develop skills that are transferable across any industry. From teamwork and leadership to communication and general confidence, I’ve seen young people transformed after just 12 months working in a pub. Some come in shy and unsure, but by the time they leave, they’ve mastered the art of conversation, problem-solving, and managing tricky situations with grace. Beyond people skills, you also pick up valuable knowledge about food, drinks, allergens, and customer service—all of which will serve you well in future roles.

The Privilege of Creating Memorable Moments

Perhaps the most rewarding part of being in this industry is the privilege of facilitating happiness. There’s something incredible about watching people have a great time with family, friends, or colleagues. As a pub owner, I get to witness people celebrate life’s moments—whether big or small—and know that my team played a part in making that happen. It’s not just about serving drinks; it’s about creating a space where people feel welcome and where memories are made.

A Philosophy That Drives Success

At Bear Inns, we operate with a simple but powerful belief: if you recruit the right person with the right attitude, equip them with the skills and knowledge they need, and provide a supportive environment, they will succeed and stay with us. It's all about fostering growth, and we invest in our staff so they can thrive.

Here’s what we offer:
1.A Shared Vision: We create ‘Pubs of Joy.’ Every team member understands their role in making this vision a reality.
2.Thorough Inductions: From day one, we set our staff up for success. Our 12-minute video about our business outlines who we are and how we operate, ensuring everyone starts off on the right foot.
3.A Framework for Success: We promote a work culture focused on respect, improvement, and guest satisfaction, providing clear leadership and well-defined job roles.
4.A Well-Maintained Work Environment: Clean, well-equipped pubs with a full team to support you. When the space you work in is taken care of, you can focus on taking care of guests.
5.Comprehensive Training: We offer extensive training programs that cover everything from making a coffee to management and leadership development, ensuring that staff can grow within the business.
6.Supportive Leadership: Our management team is always approachable, providing regular communication and guidance to help you improve and grow. Promotions come when the time is right, based on your progress and contributions.
7.Perks of the Job: From our ‘Big Day Out’ to the Christmas party and staff discounts, we believe in rewarding our team for their hard work and dedication. We also offer regular incentives to keep things exciting.

The Future is in Hospitality

Hospitality isn’t just a job; it’s a career path that can open up a world of opportunities. The skills you learn, the people you meet, and the challenges you face make you more adaptable, confident, and capable in any future endeavour. At Bear Inns, we’re proud to create a workplace that’s as rewarding for our staff as it is for our customers. If you’re looking for a role where you can grow, learn, and make a real impact—consider joining the world of hospitality. It’s a privilege to help people enjoy life, and we’d love to have you be a part of that journey.

Woody (Edward) Barlow

Woody (Edward) Barlow, founder of Bear inns, has worked in the hospitality industry for over 30 years, opening and establishing a number of award-winning venues. Woody is a member of the voting academy for Top 50 Gastro Pubs and is passionate about creating amazing pubs that have a joyful, lively atmosphere created by people, not only its guests but those delivering genuinely great hospitality.

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