Maitre D’
Sample Cover Letter - IV
Name: Michael Burokas
Age: 38
Job: Maitre d’ at The Victoria Room
Q. What skills do you need to be a good maitre d’?
A. Excellent organisational skills, attentive listening skills, great memory, comprehensive product knowledge, and an ability to solve problems in an amicable way with agenuine smile.
Q. How did you end up in your present position?
A. I’ve worked in many different positions, but always found myself returning to hospitality. When The Victoria Room opened, I started working there, mainly overseeing functions. When the former maitre d’ left, I could take over as I already had a solid knowledge of the operations side.
Q. What’s the best way of dealing with difficult customers?
A. Listening to what the customer has to say without interruption so I can reach a full understanding of what their issue is, and where they’re coming from, sowe can come to a harmonious solution.
Q. What role does the maitre d’ play in a successful dining experience?
A. The maitre d’ ensures the customer has a pleasant and memorable dining experience by making the customer feel warm and welcome and not rushed or neglected. Communication is essential between the kitchen, the floor and the bar staff, and it’s the maitre d’s responsibility to streamline this and accommodate any special requests.
Q. Where do you see yourself working in five years?
A. VR (The Victoria Room) in Paris.
Q. Do the hours impact on your social life?
A. To some extent, but I’m able to meet a multitude of people every night, so going to work is like socialising every night.
Q. Do you get to eat out much? Favourite place?
A. I try to dine out as much as possible, actually; I find it difficult to stay at home. I like to see what’s new and inspiring around town, and like to try out atleast one new restaurant every week.
Q. Best part of the job?
A. Meeting lots of fun and interesting people and seeing them have a great time.
Q. Worst part of the job?
A. Intoxicated customers who refuse to go home to bed like good children should-although The Victoria Room clientele are very respectable and friendly.
