# Tasks & work activities — host/hostess

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 35-9031.00 (Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Assign patrons to tables suitable for their needs and according to rotation so that servers receive an appropriate number of seatings.
- **[Core]** Speak with patrons to ensure satisfaction with food and service, to respond to complaints, or to make conversation.
- **[Core]** Answer telephone calls and respond to inquiries or transfer calls.
- **[Core]** Inspect dining and serving areas to ensure cleanliness and proper setup.
- **[Core]** Inspect restrooms for cleanliness and availability of supplies, and clean restrooms when necessary.
- **[Core]** Take and prepare to-go orders.
- **[Core]** Assist other restaurant workers by serving food and beverages, or by bussing tables.
- **[Core]** Provide guests with menus.
- **[Core]** Greet guests and seat them at tables or in waiting areas.
- **[Core]** Receive and record patrons' dining reservations.
- **[Core]** Maintain contact with kitchen staff, management, serving staff, and customers to ensure that dining details are handled properly and customers' concerns are addressed.
- **[Core]** Inform patrons of establishment specialties and features.
- **[Core]** Supervise and coordinate activities of dining room staff to ensure that patrons receive prompt and courteous service.
- **[Supplemental]** Direct patrons to coatrooms and waiting areas, such as lounges.
- **[Supplemental]** Operate cash registers to accept payments for food and beverages.
- **[Supplemental]** Prepare cash receipts after establishments close, and make bank deposits.
- **[Supplemental]** Order or requisition supplies and equipment for tables and serving stations.
- **[Supplemental]** Hire, train, and supervise food and beverage service staff.
- **[Supplemental]** Confer with other staff to help plan establishments' menus.
- **[Supplemental]** Perform marketing and advertising services.

## Detailed work activities

- Assist chefs or caterers with food or drink preparation.
- Assist customers with seating arrangements.
- Communicate dining or order details to kitchen personnel.
- Communicate with customers to resolve complaints or ensure satisfaction.
- Coordinate activities of food service staff.
- Inspect facilities, equipment or supplies to ensure conformance to standards.
- Manage food service operations or parts of operations.
- Operate cash registers.
- Order materials, supplies, or equipment.
- Package food or supplies.
- Perform human resources activities.
- Plan menu options.
- Present food or beverage information or menus to customers.
- Process customer bills or payments.
- Provide customers with general information or assistance.
- Record operational or production data.
- Schedule dining reservations.
- Take customer orders.
- Train food preparation or food service personnel.
