Top 10 Hostess Certifications

Certifications for a hostess are important in the job market because they demonstrate competence and knowledge in the hospitality industry. They provide employers with evidence that a candidate is knowledgeable and experienced in customer service, food safety, and other essential skills needed to be successful as a hostess. Certifications can also be beneficial when applying for jobs as they prove that a candidate has taken initiative to learn more about their field and are serious about their career. Additionally, certifications can help candidates stand out from other applicants who don’t have any specialized training or knowledge of the hospitality industry.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Hostesss and explain how they can help advance a hostess's career.

What are Hostess Certifications?

Hostess certification is a program that provides training and education to people who wish to become a professional host or hostess. The program covers topics such as customer service, hospitality, communication and interpersonal skills, event planning, food and beverage knowledge, and more. Hostess certification can help individuals gain the necessary skills and qualifications needed to succeed in the hospitality industry. It can also provide valuable networking opportunities with potential employers and industry professionals. By becoming certified, individuals can demonstrate their commitment to the industry and set themselves apart from others who lack the same level of knowledge and training. Additionally, having a certification may make an individual more attractive to employers when seeking job opportunities.

Pro Tip: When seeking hostess certification, make sure to research the local laws and regulations to ensure you are in compliance with all relevant requirements. Additionally, consider taking a class or attending a seminar to learn more about best practices for hosting guests.

Related: What does a Hostess do?

Top 10 Hostess Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Hostesss today.

1. ServSafe Food Handler Certification

ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a program designed to provide food handlers with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle food safely. The certification is offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) and is recognized by health departments across the United States.

The ServSafe Food Handler Certification program consists of an online course that takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete. During the course, participants will learn about food safety principles, including proper hygiene, temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, and other important topics related to food handling. Upon completion of the course, participants will be required to take an exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to get certified as a ServSafe Food Handler, individuals must first purchase the online course from the NRAEF website. The cost for the course is $15 USD and includes access to all materials needed for successful completion of the program. Once purchased, individuals can access the course material at any time and work through it at their own pace. Upon completion of all sections of the course, individuals must take an exam in order to receive their certification. The exam consists of 40 multiple choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes or less.

Once an individual has successfully passed the exam they will receive their ServSafe Food Handler Certification which is valid for 3 years from date of issue.

2. TIPS Alcohol Certification

TIPS Alcohol Certification (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) is an alcohol server training program designed to teach servers and sellers of alcohol how to recognize the signs of intoxication, prevent underage drinking, and intervene when necessary. It is a comprehensive program that covers topics such as state laws and regulations, responsible alcohol beverage service, identifying false identification, recognizing signs of intoxication, preventing sales to intoxicated persons, and intervening when necessary.

The certification process typically takes three hours to complete. During this time participants will learn about the legal requirements for serving alcohol responsibly, how to identify false identification cards, how to recognize signs of intoxication in customers, and how to prevent sales to intoxicated persons. At the end of the course there will be a test which must be passed in order to receive certification.

In order to get TIPS Alcohol Certification you must attend a class or online course offered by an approved provider. There are many providers offering TIPS Alcohol Certification courses both online and in-person across the United States. The cost of these courses vary depending on the provider but typically range from $30-$50 per person.

Once you have completed the course and passed the test you will receive your TIPS Alcohol Certification card which is valid for three years before needing renewal.

3. Allergen Awareness Training

Allergen Awareness Training is a course designed to help food handlers understand the importance of allergen control and how to identify, store, prepare and serve food safely. It covers topics such as the 14 major allergens, cross-contamination risks, ingredient labeling, cleaning and sanitizing procedures, and much more. The training typically takes around 2 hours to complete, depending on the provider.

It can be completed online or in person through a variety of providers. Prices vary depending on the provider but typically range from $25-$50 per person. Some employers may even offer free Allergen Awareness Training for their employees.

4. Food Safety Training

Food Safety Training is a program designed to educate food handlers on the safe handling and preparation of food. It covers topics such as preventing food-borne illnesses, personal hygiene, cross contamination, temperature control, cleaning and sanitizing equipment, and more. The training typically takes between one and four hours to complete.

Food Safety Training can be obtained through online courses or in-person classes. Online courses are usually self-paced and can be completed at any time. In-person classes are typically offered by local health departments or other organizations that specialize in food safety training. The cost of the course will vary depending on the provider and format chosen.

Overall, Food Safety Training is an important part of ensuring that food is handled safely and correctly throughout its production process. By taking a Food Safety Training course, individuals can learn how to prevent food-borne illnesses while preparing meals for themselves and others.

5. Guest Service Gold Certification

Guest Service Gold Certification is a comprehensive program designed to help hospitality professionals develop and refine their customer service skills. The program focuses on developing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to provide excellent customer service in all areas of the hospitality industry.

The certification process typically takes between 4-6 weeks, depending on the individual’s ability to complete the required coursework. To get certified, individuals must first take an online assessment that covers topics such as communication techniques, conflict resolution strategies, problem solving techniques, and customer service best practices. After passing the assessment, individuals must complete a series of online courses that cover topics such as customer relations management, customer service fundamentals, and hospitality industry trends. Upon successful completion of all coursework and assessments, individuals receive their Guest Service Gold Certification.

The cost for the Guest Service Gold Certification varies depending on the provider; however, it is usually around $200-$300 USD.

6. Professional Hostess Certification Program (PHCP)

The Professional Hostess Certification Program (PHCP) is a comprehensive program designed to provide professional hostesses with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the hospitality industry. The program consists of an online training course, a certification exam, and an optional on-site practicum.

The online training course covers topics such as customer service, communication, event planning, food safety, and more. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the course. Once completed, participants must pass a certification exam to earn their PHCP certification.

The cost of the PHCP program varies depending on which components are chosen. The online training course costs $295 USD, while the certification exam costs $150 USD. The optional on-site practicum costs an additional $250 USD.

To get started with the PHCP program, interested individuals can visit the website for more information and register for the course. Upon completion of all components of the program, successful participants will receive their official PHCP certificate from Professional Hostess Certification Program Incorporated (PHCPI).

7. National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) Certified Professional Host/Hostess

The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) Certified Professional Host/Hostess is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a restaurant host/hostess position. The certification is designed for those who are currently working in the restaurant industry, or those who are interested in pursuing a career as a host/hostess.

The certification process consists of two parts: an online exam and an on-site assessment. To obtain the certification, applicants must first complete the online exam, which covers topics such as customer service, hospitality management, safety and sanitation, and communication. Upon successful completion of the online exam, applicants must then pass an on-site assessment at an NRAEF-approved testing center. During this assessment, applicants will demonstrate their knowledge and skills by completing various tasks related to hosting duties.

The cost of obtaining the NRAEF Certified Professional Host/Hostess certification varies depending on whether you choose to take the online exam only or if you opt for both the online exam and on-site assessment. The cost for just taking the online exam is $99 USD; however, if you choose to take both components of the certification process then it will cost $199 USD.

In terms of time commitment, it can take anywhere from one to three months to receive your certification depending on how quickly you complete all requirements.

8. American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) Certified Professional Host/Hostess

The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) Certified Professional Host/Hostess is a professional certification program designed to provide hospitality professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide excellent customer service. The program covers topics such as communication, problem solving, and conflict resolution. It also provides an understanding of the role of a host/hostess in a restaurant or hotel setting.

It takes approximately 10 hours to complete the AHLEI Certified Professional Host/Hostess program. The program consists of four modules: Introduction to Customer Service; Communication Skills; Problem Solving and Conflict Resolution; and Professionalism. Each module requires completion of an online assessment and successful completion of all four modules is required for certification.

To get certified, individuals must first register for the program through AHLEI’s website. After registering, individuals will receive access to the online course materials and assessments. Upon successful completion of all four modules, individuals will receive their certificate via email along with instructions for how to maintain their certification status.

The cost for the AHLEI Certified Professional Host/Hostess program is $129 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

9. National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP) Certified Professional Host/Hostess

The National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP) Certified Professional Host/Hostess is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in food safety and sanitation. The certification is designed to provide assurance to employers, customers, and the public that the certified professional has the knowledge and skills necessary to safely serve food.

To become certified as a NRFSP Certified Professional Host/Hostess, applicants must successfully complete an approved training program and pass an exam. The training program typically takes between 8-12 hours to complete and covers topics such as food safety regulations, proper hygiene practices, temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, cleaning and sanitizing procedures, pest control measures, and more.

Once the training program is completed, applicants must pass a written exam with a score of 70% or higher in order to be certified. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering all aspects of food safety and sanitation.

The cost of becoming NRFSP Certified Professional Host/Hostess varies depending on the provider offering the course. Generally speaking, it can range from $50 - $150 USD depending on the length of the course and other factors.

10. American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Professional Host/Hostess

The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Professional Host/Hostess is a professional certification program for individuals who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the hospitality industry. This certification is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the areas of guest relations, customer service, and hospitality management.

It typically takes three to six months to complete the ACF Certified Professional Host/Hostess program. To become certified, individuals must first complete an online application and submit it with the required fee. After submitting their application, candidates must attend an orientation session and then take a written exam that covers topics such as customer service, hospitality management, and guest relations. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will be awarded their ACF Certified Professional Host/Hostess certification.

The cost of the ACF Certified Professional Host/Hostess program varies depending on where you are located; however, typically it costs around $350 USD. This fee includes all materials needed for the course as well as the cost of taking the written exam.

Do You Really Need a Hostess Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of event or gathering for which you are needing a hostess certificate. If your event is formal and requires a certain level of etiquette, then yes, you may need a hostess certificate. This certificate can be used to recognize the person who has taken on the role of being a gracious host or hostess. It is also a great way to thank them for their efforts in making sure that everyone has an enjoyable time at the event.

On the other hand, if your event is more casual, such as a backyard barbecue or family gathering, then you may not need a hostess certificate. In these instances it is more common to simply thank the host or hostess with words of appreciation and perhaps some kind of token gift.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a hostess certificate depends on the type of event for which it is being used. For formal events such as weddings and corporate gatherings, having one can be beneficial in recognizing and thanking those who have taken on the role of being an excellent host or hostess. However, for more casual events like birthday parties and family reunions, it may not be necessary.

Related: Hostess Resume Examples

FAQs About Hostess Certifications

1. What is a Hostess Certification?

Answer: A Hostess Certification is a professional certification that provides formal recognition of your skills and knowledge in the hospitality industry. It demonstrates to employers that you have the necessary qualifications to work as a host or hostess in various types of establishments such as restaurants, hotels, resorts, and events.

2. How do I get a Hostess Certification?

Answer: You can obtain a Hostess Certification by taking an approved course or program from an accredited institution. Depending on the program you choose, you may be required to complete a written exam and/or demonstrate your abilities through practical experience.

3. Is there an age requirement for Hostess Certifications?

Answer: No, there is no age requirement for obtaining a Hostess Certification. However, most courses and programs require applicants to be at least 18 years old due to safety regulations and other factors related to working in the hospitality industry.

4. What are the benefits of having a Hostess Certification?

Answer: Having a Hostess Certification can help you stand out from other job applicants when applying for positions in the hospitality industry. It also allows employers to quickly identify your qualifications and ensures that you possess the necessary skills needed for the job. Additionally, some employers may offer higher wages or additional benefits for those with certifications in this field.

5. How long does it take to get a Hostess Certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to obtain a Hostess Certification depends on which course or program you choose as well as your experience level with hospitality-related tasks and duties. Generally speaking, most courses can be completed within 6 months while more advanced programs may take up to 1 year or longer depending on how quickly you progress through the material covered in class.