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Steward Waiter

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

A steward waiter serves food and beverages in restaurants, hotels, and other establishments, ensuring customer satisfaction through excellent service.

Average Salary

₹2,50,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a Steward/Waiter

To become a successful steward or waiter in India, certain educational qualifications and skills are beneficial. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Minimum Education:

    • Generally, a high school diploma (10+2) is the minimum requirement.

  • Preferred Qualifications:

    • Diploma in Hotel Management: A diploma in hotel management or catering can provide a strong foundation.
    • Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in hotel management or hospitality management is highly advantageous for career advancement.

  • Key Skills:

    • Communication Skills: Excellent verbal communication is crucial for interacting with guests.
    • Customer Service: A strong focus on customer satisfaction is essential.
    • Physical Stamina: The job requires long hours on your feet.
    • Teamwork: Ability to work effectively with kitchen and other service staff.
    • Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in orders and billing.

  • Additional Certifications:

    • Certifications in food safety and hygiene can be beneficial.

Having a solid educational background combined with the right skills significantly increases your chances of success and career growth in the hospitality industry.

Study Path
Top Colleges

To kickstart your career as a steward or waiter in India, consider these top colleges and courses that offer excellent training in hospitality and culinary arts:

  • Top Colleges:

    • Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Delhi: Renowned for its comprehensive programs and industry connections.
    • IHM Mumbai: Offers a wide range of courses with a strong emphasis on practical training.
    • IHM Chennai: Known for its experienced faculty and excellent placement record.
    • Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, Manipal: A highly-rated private institution with modern facilities.
    • Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development, Delhi: Offers specialized programs focused on luxury hospitality.

  • Relevant Courses:

    • Diploma in Hotel Management: Provides a solid foundation in all aspects of hotel operations.
    • Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM): A comprehensive degree covering management, culinary arts, and service skills.
    • Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Hotel Administration: Focuses on the scientific and managerial aspects of the industry.

  • What to Expect:

    • These colleges offer hands-on training, internships, and industry exposure to prepare you for a successful career in the hospitality sector.
    • Look for programs that include practical training in food and beverage service to gain the necessary skills for a steward or waiter role.
Fees

The fees for courses related to becoming a steward or waiter in India can vary widely depending on the type of institution and the program. Here’s a general overview:

  • Diploma Courses:

    • Government Institutes: Diploma courses in hotel management from government-run institutes can range from ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per year.
    • Private Institutes: Private hotel management colleges may charge between ₹30,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year for diploma programs.

  • Bachelor's Degree Courses:

    • Government Colleges: Bachelor's degrees in hotel management from government colleges can cost between ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 annually.
    • Private Colleges: Private institutions typically charge between ₹80,000 to ₹3,00,000 or more per year for a bachelor's degree.

  • Certification Programs:

    • Short-term certification courses in food safety, beverage service, or customer service can range from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 depending on the course duration and provider.

  • Additional Costs:

    • Remember to factor in additional costs such as accommodation, study materials, and examination fees.

It's advisable to research specific colleges and programs to get accurate fee structures and available scholarships.

Related Exams

To excel as a steward or waiter, formal exams aren't typically required, but relevant certifications and training programs can significantly boost your career. Here's what you should focus on:

  • Hotel Management Entrance Exams:

    • While not directly for stewarding, entrance exams for hotel management institutes (like NCHMCT JEE) can open doors to diploma or degree programs that include extensive training in food and beverage service.

  • Certification Programs:

    • Food Safety and Hygiene Certifications: Courses like HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) are valuable.
    • Wine and Beverage Certifications: Programs like WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) can enhance your expertise.

  • Skills-Based Assessments:

    • Many hotel chains and restaurants conduct their own assessments to evaluate customer service skills, communication abilities, and problem-solving aptitude.

  • Importance of Training:

    • Look for on-the-job training programs offered by reputable establishments. These provide practical experience and can be more valuable than formal exams.

Focus on building a strong skill set through training and certifications to advance in your career as a steward or waiter.

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Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Opportunity to earn tips, increasing income.
  2. Flexible working hours in many establishments.
  3. Chance to develop customer service skills.
  4. Opportunities for career advancement.
  5. Meeting new people daily.
  6. Varied work environment, not monotonous.
  7. Potential for international job opportunities.
  8. Learning about different cuisines and cultures.
  9. Developing teamwork and coordination skills.
  10. Immediate entry into the workforce.

Cons

  1. Long hours and physically demanding work.
  2. Low starting salary in some establishments.
  3. Dealing with difficult or rude customers.
  4. Working on weekends and holidays.
  5. High-pressure environment during peak hours.
  6. Risk of injuries like slips and falls.
  7. Inconsistent income due to fluctuating tips.
  8. Limited opportunities for formal education.
  9. Stress from multitasking and time management.
  10. Exposure to workplace hazards.