Top Traits to Look for When Hiring Front-of-House Staff

In the competitive world of hospitality, your front-of-house team is the face of your business. From greeting guests with a smile to managing busy dining rooms with ease, these customer-facing team members play a crucial role in shaping the guest experience. For employers aiming to hire restaurant staff who represent their brand professionally and warmly, identifying the right personality traits and soft skills is essential.

1. Exceptional Communication Skills

One of the most essential qualities for front-of-house roles is communicating clearly and confidently. Staff must be able to explain menu items, handle special requests, and resolve issues diplomatically—all while maintaining a friendly and composed demeanour. Effective communication helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures that customers and kitchen staff stay in sync.

2. A Strong Sense of Empathy

Hospitality is, at its core, about people. Staff who anticipate a guest’s needs or recognize when someone has a less-than-perfect experience—and respond appropriately—are invaluable. Empathy allows front-of-house employees to build rapport, ease tensions, and deliver personalized service that keeps guests returning.

3. Teamwork and Collaboration

Front-of-house staff must work closely with one another, as well as with back-of-house teams, to create a seamless guest experience. Whether supporting coworkers during a rush or communicating special dietary requirements to the kitchen, successful front-of-house employees are team players who understand that collaboration is key.

4. Grace Under Pressure

The ability to stay calm and focused in a fast-paced environment is a must in hospitality hiring in Canada. From peak dining hours to unexpected guest complaints, front-of-house staff often face high-pressure situations. Even when things get hectic, those who remain composed and efficient will thrive in these roles.

5. Attention to Detail

From ensuring tables are spotless to remembering a regular customer’s favourite drink, the small details often elevate the customer experience. Candidates who naturally pay attention to their surroundings—and take pride in delivering polished service—are significant assets to any front-of-house team.

6. A Positive Attitude

Hospitality is a people-first industry; a positive attitude can go a long way. Guests are likelier to have an enjoyable experience when greeted by friendly, upbeat staff. When you hire restaurant staff, prioritize those who consistently bring positivity to their shifts, even when challenges arise.

The Role of Soft Skills in Hospitality

While technical skills can be taught, soft skills in hospitality—like patience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence—truly set exceptional front-of-house staff apart. These traits help team members connect with guests and colleagues, enhancing service quality and workplace culture.

Using hospitality-specific platforms can streamline the process if you’re looking to hire restaurant staff who embody these essential traits. Unlike general job sites, industry-specific job boards help you find candidates with relevant experience and the right soft skills, making your search for front-of-house talent faster and more effective.