What does a Caterer do?
Published 3 min read
A caterer is a professional who provides food and beverage services for events. They work with clients to plan menus, select menu items, and coordinate food and beverage service. Caterers also oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation. They may also be responsible for cleanup after the event.
Caterer job duties include:
- Meeting with clients to discuss menu options and special dietary needs
- Planning menus and estimating food and beverage costs
- Ordering supplies and equipment
- Supervising and training kitchen staff
- Coordinating kitchen activities
- Monitoring food preparation and service
- Adjusting orders to meet unexpected changes in customer numbers
- Resolving customer complaints
- Ensuring that the kitchen is clean and safe
- Keeping up with trends in the catering industry
Caterer Job Requirements
A caterer typically needs at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most caterers complete on-the-job training. Some states have certification programs for caterers. Caterers must be able to lift heavy trays, stand for long periods of time, and work in hot kitchens. They also must be able to handle food safely and follow health codes. Experience working in a kitchen is helpful for this job.
Caterer Skills
- Culinary skills
- Creativity
- Attention to detail
- Organizational skills
- Time management skills
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Customer service skills
- Sales skills
- Marketing skills
- Financial management skills
Related: Top Caterer Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Caterer
Caterers are in high demand these days as more and more people are hosting parties and events. If you love to cook and entertain, then becoming a caterer may be the perfect career for you! Here are a few tips on how to get started in this delicious business:
1. Start by taking some cooking classes to hone your skills. You’ll need to know how to prepare food for large groups, as well as how to keep it fresh and tasty.
2. Next, create a portfolio of your best dishes. This will come in handy when meeting with potential clients who want to see what kind of food you can make.
3. Start promoting your business! Get some business cards made and put up flyers in local businesses. You can also create a website or blog to showcase your work.
4. Once you start getting catering gigs, be sure to always deliver on your promises. Show up on time with everything the client has asked for, and be professional throughout the event.
With hard work and dedication, you can turn your passion for cooking into a successful catering business!
Related: Caterer Resume Example