Explore Jobs
Find Specific Jobs
Explore Careers
Explore Professions
Best Companies
Explore Companies
Job outlook for restaurant general managers in the United States
Restaurant general manager job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected restaurant general manager job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
About 189,200 new jobs for restaurant general managers are projected over the next decade.
Restaurant general manager salaries have increased 4% for restaurant general managers in the last 5 years.
There are over 316,317 restaurant general managers currently employed in the United States.
There are 339,757 active restaurant general manager job openings in the US.
The average restaurant general manager salary is $56,521.
Are restaurant general manager jobs in demand?
Restaurant General Manager job and salary trends over time
Restaurant General Manager jobs over time
Restaurant General Manager job growth rate over time
| Year | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 316,317 | 0.09% |
| 2020 | 252,023 | 0.08% |
| 2019 | 261,242 | 0.08% |
| 2018 | 248,645 | 0.07% |
| 2017 | 239,844 | 0.07% |
Average restaurant general manager salary over time
Restaurant General Manager salary by year
| Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $56,521 | $27.17 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $54,956 | $26.42 | --0.1% |
| 2023 | $55,038 | $26.46 | +0.5% |
| 2022 | $54,754 | $26.32 | +1.1% |
| 2021 | $54,155 | $26.04 | +1.6% |
Restaurant General Manager jobs by state
Most common states for restaurant general managers
| Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 571 | 82% |
| 2 | Delaware | 961,939 | 643 | 67% |
| 3 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 3,303 | 59% |
| 4 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 1,799 | 58% |
| 5 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 612 | 58% |
| 6 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 4,859 | 57% |
| 7 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 3,828 | 56% |
| 8 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 3,400 | 56% |
| 9 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 741 | 55% |
| 10 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 3,583 | 54% |
| 11 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 3,264 | 54% |
| 12 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 2,706 | 54% |
| 13 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 6,780 | 53% |
| 14 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 2,957 | 53% |
| 15 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 1,664 | 53% |
| 16 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 1,486 | 51% |
| 17 | Kentucky | 4,454,189 | 2,234 | 50% |
| 18 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 6,293 | 49% |
| 19 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 5,660 | 49% |
| 20 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 5,063 | 49% |
Most common cities for restaurant general managers
| Rank | City | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Franklin | 11 | 44% | $52,728 |
| 2 | Slidell | 10 | 36% | $53,340 |
| 3 | Laurel | 9 | 35% | $61,815 |
| 4 | Georgetown | 9 | 27% | $46,252 |
| 5 | Greenwood | 13 | 23% | $52,799 |
| 6 | Hagerstown | 9 | 22% | $61,626 |
| 7 | Columbus | 8 | 17% | $52,589 |
| 8 | Anderson | 7 | 13% | $53,601 |
| 9 | Waldorf | 8 | 12% | $61,631 |
| 10 | Indianapolis | 13 | 2% | $52,934 |
| 11 | Baltimore | 10 | 2% | $61,960 |
| 12 | Dallas | 9 | 1% | $51,360 |
| 13 | Washington | 8 | 1% | $80,333 |
Restaurant General Manager job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of restaurant general manager experts
University of Memphis
University of New Hampshire
Austin Community College
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
Murray State University
Temple University
University of South Florida
Texas A&M University
New Mexico State University
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Coastal Carolina University
Highline College
Indiana University Kokomo
Texas Tech University
University of San Francisco
Dr. Robert Meuret
James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits Fellow, Distilling, Wine, and Brewing Studies FacultyWhat general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Dr. Robert Meuret: Ongoing staffing challenges are resulting in historic career opportunities for hotel employees. There are more than 70,000 hotel jobs currently open across the nation, according to Indeed. This means that recent graduates can be more selective in employers. Graduates should be interviewing future employers during the interview process. They should seek out employers with a clear path to growth opportunities, supportive management, competitive benefits (health insurance, 401K with match, PTO, etc..,) and of course competitive wages. Seek out managers who will help you meet your goals, not just theirs. As of December 2023, national average hotel wages were at an all-time high of $23.91 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Robert Meuret: Our hotel partners and advisory board members really drive what we teach in the classroom. They advise us on the skills and competencies needed in today’s hotels. Hotels are looking for graduates with strong communication skills. Technical skills are also valued, such as proficiency in Excel and Word. Students also need to learn Revenue Management and how data is now driving decision making on hotel rates, events and guest experience, using tools such as STR reports (Smith Travel Research). Thes skills will still be important in the next 3-5 years. AI has the potential to change the hospitality industry by improving efficiency. It could also personalize customer experiences, identify trends, and reduce operational costs. Managing AI related technology may be the next frontier of hospitality management.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Robert Meuret: The hospitality industry is a global business. Students who are looking to maximize their earning potential should be open to relocating domestically or internationally. Even short stints working overseas can make your resume really standout. Learning another language like Spanish, Chinese, Sign language or Japanese can also enhance your earning potential, especially in bigger US cities and international destinations. Learning the skills I mentioned before is not always enough. Can you prove that you have obtained these skills through industry recognized certifications or digital badges. A digital badge is a tangible representation of an individual’s competencies and skills. They are designed to be easily shareable and verifiable, typically containing verifiable data such as the badge earner's name, the issuing organization, and the criteria met to earn the badge. Here at the University of Kentucky Hospitality Management and Tourism program our students have many opportunities to earn industry recognized certifications and digital badges. For example, students have earned Certification in Analytics, Distillation, Entrepreneurship, ServSafe, CVENT and Google Sheets. Internships are another great way to gain experience while still in school. Employers value work experience, and a summer internship in your chosen field may just be the deciding factor in your hiring and salary. With so many hospitality students graduating from universities all over the world, students will need to really stand out during the application and interview process. The ability to bring your education, experience and proof of skills valued by the employer will put students in a better position to negotiate a higher salary.
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Dr. Oliver Jones: In the next 3-5 years, certain skills are expected to become increasingly important and prevalent in the hospitality field. These may include: Technological Proficiency, Adaptability and Resilience, Sustainability Awareness, and Cultural Competence.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Oliver Jones: Maximizing salary potential in the hospitality field often requires a combination of factors. Firstly, gaining relevant experience and continually updating skills can enhance marketability and justify higher compensation. Pursuing advanced certifications or specialized training in areas such as revenue management, event planning, or hospitality technology can also command higher salaries. Additionally, networking and building a strong professional reputation can lead to opportunities for advancement and higher-paying positions. Lastly, considering geographical locations and industries within hospitality that offer higher salaries, such as luxury hospitality or corporate hospitality, can also impact earning potential.
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Mr. Bill Knapp: Entering hospitality is a seller's market, with the industry expanding rapidly post-pandemic. There is a high demand for managers, leading to multiple job offers for graduates and exciting opportunities to lead teams and contribute to management.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mr. Bill Knapp: Hospitality managers focus on providing exceptional guest experiences, planning ahead, understanding operations, and wearing multiple hats such as being human resource managers, buyers, bookkeepers, and technical experts. They must keep up with industry trends, the economy, and new regulations.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Mr. Bill Knapp: Most managers enjoy the variety in their job, performing different tasks and managing various events. The most common complaint is the long hours and job stresses, but efforts are being made to improve work-life balance and reduce stress.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Scott Taylor Jr.: Don’t be afraid to take on new roles or learn new skills, this might mean working longer or more hours but, in our industry, the more you know, and the larger skill set you have, especially early in your career the greater number of doors open for you later. Also, given the global nature of our industry if you are open to moving you could find yourself having some great opportunities.
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Rui Qi Ph.D.: Focus on building your competitive advantages, which can be interdisciplinary. For example, some hospitality students minor in real estate finance to become asset managers for large hotel chains. Others explore the healthcare industry where there is demand for managerial-level employees who oversee the hospitality aspects of healthcare facilities, aiming to improve the experience of patients and their families.
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Dr. Markus Schuckert: Most important: gain work experience. Relevant work experience and a track record will help you to increase your salary potential. Learn as much as possible about your job, including the roles and responsibilities of your colleagues and the management. An upgrade with relevant micro credentials and great networking are a plus.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Markus Schuckert: Hospitality managers oversee various aspects including staff coordination, service management, event planning and design, and real estate development. Across all these professions, the primary goal of hospitality management remains the same: to ensure every customer has a flawless and memorable experience. It is important to stay up-to-date with consumer trends, technology, and AI.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Markus Schuckert: Get hands-on experience as soon as possible and learn to understand your customers as well as related processes in the back office. Try to understand the business from the cost side and what drives the revenues in your particular area. Depending on the company and your career objectives, manager-in-training programs have advantages over an in-line position. Sign up for international work experience programs if your company offers this opportunity. Travel and see the world to learn about your customers, different markets, and competition.
Franklin Marciales
Adjunct ProfessorAustin Community College
Hospitality Administration/Management
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Franklin Marciales: To maximize your salary potential when starting your career in hospitality and tourism, focus on developing a unique skillset that is in high demand, such as proficiency in a specific language, expertise in a particular type of cuisine or beverage, or advanced knowledge of hospitality software and systems.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Franklin Marciales: In 5 years, the tourism and hospitality industry employees will be expected to prioritize skills such as digital literacy, data analysis, and sustainability. With the rise of technology, hotels, resorts, and travel companies will need employees who can effectively use digital tools to manage customer relationships, analyze customer behavior, and optimize operational efficiency. One of the most effective leadership skills employees should practice is humility. Humility is a soft leadership skill that will help employees to be thoughtful, considerate, compassionate, and understanding.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Franklin Marciales: As a graduate entering the hospitality, travel, and tourism industry, my main advice would be to be flexible, adaptable, and open-minded. I believe students entering the workforce should be prepared to start at the bottom and learn from every experience, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. It is also very important to build strong relationships with colleagues and superiors, and be willing to take on new challenges and responsibilities as they arise.
Bobbie Barnes
Associate Professor in ResidenceUniversity of Nevada - Las Vegas
Hospitality Administration/Management
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Bobbie Barnes: I remember hearing from a hospitality executive that managers lose their jobs for one of two reasons. Either their role does not add value, or they as a contributor don’t add value. I believe that the same goes for promotions and salary increases. I encourage recent graduates to apply in their workplaces what they learned in their coursework. By knowing and demonstrating their worth, graduates can make positive contributions to your workplace daily, which enhance opportunities for promotions and salary increases.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Bobbie Barnes: Artificial intelligence continues to automate repetitive hospitality tasks providing time for hospitality managers to focus on creating incredible experiences and authentic guest interactions. As such, leadership competencies in strategic and ethical decision-making, problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork will be critical.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Bobbie Barnes: 1. Sometimes recent graduates say, “It’s just my first job after college.” No, it’s never just a job. Whatever position the recent graduate lands after college, it is important to remember that it’s just an incredibly long interview until the next opportunity. Having this attitude will set graduates up to be promotable within their current company or ready to make a leap to a new opportunity. 2. Hard work is the key to success. Taking initiative and saying “yes” to opportunities to contribute whether it is a project at work or a service initiative within the community provides an avenue to gain new skills and perspectives. Saying “yes” when others say “no” can be a defining moment for a recent graduate.
Dr. Ben Littlepage
ProfessorMurray State University
Educational Administration And Supervision
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Ben Littlepage: Salary is maximized when leaders are sought after. Leaders who pursue meaningful experiences and remain 'market ready' are viewed as an asset to any organization. Leaders must carefully consider where the field is moving and respond.
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Andrew Lovell: I may be a bit “old school” but I strongly believe that a savvy and skilled manager of employee teams will never fall off this list, and likely will be even more valuable in coming years as the mix of multiple generations in the workforce continues. Communicating well with people as you lead is just essential! Second, without question managers that can utilize AI for efficient and positive experience enhancement in their hospitality environments will be highly sought after. Third, the manager that can create budgets and financial plans that contribute to increased profitability will always be important.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Andrew Lovell: For those entering hospitality management, I always urge folks to be ready to seek opportunities for improvement. This could mean a commitment to networking, seeking out a professional association, or raising your hand for a committee or a project in your workplace. Getting that first job and your foot-in-the-door should not be the start of a period of relaxation. A high potential employee continues to find ways to add value while remaining true to who they are as a contributor and a person.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Andrew Lovell: Have a thirst for knowledge! Take advantage of training and development opportunities. Apply for the management training program that the HR team or corporate office promotes. Be willing to relocate in order to accelerate your career path – do it once and it’ll be easier the next time an opportunity arises! And of course, I’d recommend exploring a master’s degree program in hospitality management or an MBA program to unlock higher earning potential.
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Luana Nanu: Boosting your salary potential in the hospitality industry starts with specialized education and gaining experience through internships in diverse settings (Pretty much following my advice of always being open to experiences that can enrich your skills and resume). Networking within the industry through conferences and professional associations can open doors to mentorships and job opportunities (being as involved as possible from as early as possible). Do research on the companies that you are applying too as well as the areas. Look at the brand history and ability to climb within the organization. Don’t be shy and ask in your interview what are the opportunities to advance within the role, or cross training.
Continuously update your knowledge on the latest industry trends and technologies and cultivate a professional online presence to showcase your expertise and achievements (take advantage of all the profession certifications you can get, especially at USF, we provide LinkedIn learn certificates for free).
But I do want to emphasize that the more experience you have, the better the pay. That is why it is important to start as early as possible. And take advantage of your network, especially your professors, ask them to introduce you to key industry professionals.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Luana Nanu: To be open to experiences and to start as soon as possible. Our industry is so diverse, branching into so many fields. The more exposed you get the higher the chances of making yourself competitive. Moreover, I would also advice the graduates to make sure they get enough experience before they graduate, be it paid or not paid experience, any learning opportunity counts. Lastly, dream big, don’t give up, and do not take no for an answer.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Luana Nanu: Firstly, digital literacy and technology proficiency will be essential as the sector increasingly employs AI and data analytics to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency. Secondly, with a growing focus on environmental sustainability, expertise in sustainable practices such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and eco-friendly service innovation will be highly valued, there are so many online opportunities to learn about this and even get certifications. Thirdly, cultural intelligence and diversity awareness will be key for catering to a global clientele, requiring professionals to navigate cultural differences and promote inclusivity. Lastly, adaptability and crisis management skills will be indispensable in responding to rapid changes and challenges, ensuring businesses can thrive amid economic, health, or technological disruptions.
Po-Ju Chen Ph.D.
Professor & Associate Head of Graduate and Undergraduate ProgramsTexas A&M University
Hospitality Administration/Management
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Po-Ju Chen Ph.D.: - Always find opportunities and trainings if offered to enhance your knowledge, skills and abilities needed at the workplace.
- Step up for call for projects - Learning by doing
- Communicate your career aspirations with the Human Resources and your mentors
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Po-Ju Chen Ph.D.: - Be geographically flexible for more opportunities for their career development.
- Be our future leaders in
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Po-Ju Chen Ph.D.: - Guest services skills are becoming even more important in the Post Pandemic Era
- Be technologically savvy especially the interactive technologies, generative AI, etc.
- Willing to learn
- Teamwork
- Effective listening skills - pay attention to issues, concerns and guest complaints to identify root problem.
- Problem-solving skills - Find solutions to resolve issues
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Dr. Erinn Tucker-Oluwole PhD: The skills that will be the most important are being a. technologically savvy in your job, b. managing a diverse workforce and customers, c. financial and budget management.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Erinn Tucker-Oluwole PhD: There are so many jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry that many graduates have not been exposed to so be open. 1. Gain as much experience as possible through structured internships with companies before you graduate because this allows you to see all of the departments and jobs that the company employees. 2. Apply for management development programs so you can develop management and leadership skills with that company. 3. Join industry associations and getting involved as a member is the best networking tool.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Erinn Tucker-Oluwole PhD: After an offer is made, review all of the responsibilities of the position. Ask for a salary increase. If the number is fixed, then ask for other benefits that are offered by the company which may include e.g. transportation, mobile phone, extra vacation time, professional development funds, etc.
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Dr. Jean Hertzman Ph.D., CCE, CSW, CSS: Be open to all opportunities. The hospitality industry provides you with the incredible ability to work anywhere in the country or the world. Gaining exposure to different locations and cultures increases your hospitality awareness and cultural competency.
While the industry needs plenty of employees and leaders in the traditional segments of and management positions in hotels, food and beverage, resorts, and meetings and events, positions that need people with the skills you have learned in hospitality are available in just about any business. Some growing areas are outdoor recreation, entertainment and film as well as emerging jobs in sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and technology.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Jean Hertzman Ph.D., CCE, CSW, CSS: Get as much experience while you are in your studies as possible, including part-time jobs, internships, and leadership positions in student clubs and activities. Employers want to see that you understand the industry, can work with others, and truly have the passion for it. Having the skills listed in Question 2 will make you stand out. While it is okay to have some short-term jobs, do not jump around to different companies just for a slightly better wage. Have realistic expectations about salary and benefits. Making the company culture fits you has become just as important. If you show your dedication and willingness to learn in a company, you will be rewarded and promoted.
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Jaunelle Celaire: Leadership - the world needs more of these; the ability to lead, craft and grow. Digital literacy - this world is definitely turning digital and virtual is the new trend. Emotional intelligence - there is a vast number of personalities in our world today; individuals grow and it is our job to stay emotionally connected, so we can operate more effectively.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jaunelle Celaire: Never stop learning! This may consist of going back to school, earning new certifications in your field of study, attending conferences and seminars, and making sure that your time management is always at its finest level of excellence.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Jaunelle Celaire: 2. Leadership - the world needs more of these; the ability to lead, craft and grow. Digital literacy - this world is definitely turning digital and virtual is the new trend. Emotional intelligence - there is a vast number of personalities in our world today; individuals grow and it is our job to stay emotionally connected, so we can operate more effectively.
Sun-Hwa Kim
Associate Professor at Marketing, HRTM, and LawCoastal Carolina University
Hospitality Administration/Management
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Sun-Hwa Kim: Skills such as data analytics will become prevalent, particularly for students aspiring to leadership roles.
Creativity will also gain more importance because service products are going for greater personalization
and experiential value. Hospitality professionals will need to develop stronger flexibility and out-of-the-
box thinking. Furthermore, the ability to handle crises like future pandemics will be vital. Therefore, the
ability to design and execute contingency plans would be a valuable asset for any hospitality
professional.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sun-Hwa Kim: Do your research. Understand the average starting salary for your position and location. Don't be afraid
to negotiate your staring salary, even for your first job. Be prepared to highlight your skills, experience,
and the unique value bring to the table.
Compensating goes beyond just your base salary. Consider other benefits like bonuses and paid time off,
and HR programs that your organization offers.
Salary is important. However, don't lose sight of company culture, growth opportunities and overall fit.
If you like the job and people but the initial offer falls short, consider accepting with a plan to negotiate
internally over time. You can have earning opportunities form within.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Sun-Hwa Kim: I don't have any social media accounts including Linkedin.
Justin Taillon
Professor & Department HeadHighline College
Hospitality Administration/Management
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Justin Taillon: Complete negotiation coursework! My department has negotiation strategy as a core component of our curriculum. This is seemingly abnormal as I do not see negotiation theory in most curriculums. Yet, students consistently tell me that learning negotiation is one of the most important skills they took away from their undergraduate degree with our institution.
At a minimum, learn about your target, reservation point, BATNA, and win/win strategic approaches to negotiation. If you do not know what those are, then you are not ready to maximize your salary potential yet.
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Justin Taillon: Great first question! First, make sure you understand front-line operations. For example, I built my career in lodging. I completed an internship as a housekeeper to ensure I understood this important division that includes room attendants, laundry, mini-bar, uniforms, and more. Approximately 50% of individuals working in a hotel are employed in the housekeeping division. Later in my career, when I applied for a Director of Operations position, I was able to obtain the position because I understood not only front office but also housekeeping. This is similar in other areas. For example, in food and beverage you need to understand front and back of house operations. In the airline industry you should understand what it takes to be a gate agent before moving to flight attendant or even yield management. Secondly, have a career pathway built for yourself. Do not accept a job without thinking about the long-term strategy of how you plan to leverage that position in the future to your career pathway. Third, I believe hospitality professionals can move up faster than most other areas of business. But you need to work harder and smarter in the first few years. When I write 'smart' I mostly mean being methodical with your career pathway decisions. What I experienced and what I have seen colleagues and my recent students do is work hard and smart, and be in director roles in just a few years. Finally, build a think tank. This is 5ish individuals you admire in the industry. Ask them for advice before major decisions. My think tank proved to be the most important thing I took away from my undergraduate degree. Yes, the classes were good and I learned a lot. But the professors, guest speakers, and industry association professionals (e.g., HFTP, MPI, PCMA, CMAA) proved to be at least as important as the courses.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Justin Taillon: There are a lot of interesting trends. Yet, one trend is so much more important than everything else that I want to focus on it: The ability to turn data into information. As the famous quote goes, "You can't manage what you don't measure." We have moved to a data-based decision-making model for nearly everything. Those who comprehend statistics, data analysis processes, and how to make wise decisions based on an in-depth comprehension of data will be the top people in the future. The specific software someone needs to know is based on the company and area of hospitality they enter. Thus, beyond my recommendation that everyone learn advanced levels of Excel, make sure you speak to successful professionals in your career areas so you are up to date on data analysis processes and software.
Mark Meng Ph.D.
Mark Z. Meng, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Hospitality and Tourism ManagementIndiana University Kokomo
Business/Commerce
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant General Manager?
Mark Meng Ph.D.: Analytical skill comes at the top. The hospitality world has becoming increasingly
dependent on data. Crisis and emergency management demonstrated their importance
in the past three years across all areas of the hospitality industry.
What Restaurant General Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mark Meng Ph.D.: Don't be afraid to give it a try. You want to know which industry segment fits you the
best. To find that out, you may need to give opportunities to some different options.
Throughout that process, you may realize which area you like the most and the least.
Hospitality and tourism is such a huge industry, and each segment comes with its own
dynamic and challenges: one may need you to do evening shifts, another may need you
to travel a lot, and some others may need you to be on call etc. Plus, the nature of some
positions may need you to work at frontline to directly interact with your clients, and
some others may need you to work primarily behind the scenes. You would never
thoroughly understand it until you give it a try and get your feet wet.
What will help Restaurant General Managers increase their earning potential?
Mark Meng Ph.D.: Keeping that student mindset may increase your potential. Hospitality is different from
traditional STEM, and that means one still has a lot to learn when practicing in the real-
world business. Four-year higher education will only get your foot in the door. In this
fast-changing industry, keep learning new skills and expending your knowledge base
can push you further.
Charlie Adams Ph.D.
Associate Professor, RHIM Undergraduate AdvisorTexas Tech University
Restaurant, Hotel, & Institutional Management Program
What skills stand out on Restaurant General Manager resumes?
Charlie Adams Ph.D.: Specific, measurable skills such as certification for specific activities like bartending or Serve Safe. Demonstrate capabilities through past work experience such as waiting tables, hosting, front desk, housekeeping, etc., that show effort and familiarity with the environment. Also, demonstration of marketing, sales, and/or finance are extremely beneficial. These assessable skills should be found on the resume called out in the job descriptions. Additionally, a person's work experience should reflect their career aspirations and goals. The best measure of future performance is past experience!
What soft skills should all Restaurant General Managers possess?
Charlie Adams Ph.D.: Communication, Commitment, and Customers Service are the "Three Cs" of hospitality soft skills. Outstanding communication skills are important for motivating employees and satisfying customers' wants and needs. The hospitality industry employs and serves a wide spectrum of people. Commitment is vital to a successful hospitality career because of the demands placed on employees and managers. People work long hours in jobs that are fast-paced and physically demanding. Customer service is king because our guests pay our salaries and keep hospitality businesses profitable.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Restaurant General Managers?
Charlie Adams Ph.D.: Three very important hard skills are operations competency, sales and marketing, and financial acumen. Hospitality businesses are multifaceted and require competencies in both the front and back of the house. Sales and marketing is something every hospitality manager does, and being good at it can mean the difference between the success and failure of a business. Financial acumen means planning, forecasting, and controlling the income and expenses of a hospitality business. Financial skills are crucial to the profitability and growth of hospitality enterprises.
What skills will help Restaurant General Managers earn the most?
Charlie Adams Ph.D.: Managers who possess the creativity and knowledge to keep restaurants and hotels profitable during uncertain and difficult economic periods are essential.
With contributions from Dr. Shane Blum
Thomas Maier Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Hospitality ManagementUniversity of San Francisco
School of Management
What skills stand out on Restaurant General Manager resumes?
Thomas Maier Ph.D.: Effective communication skills, experience in the field with service and guest relations. Leadership and team-building.
What soft skills should all Restaurant General Managers possess?
Thomas Maier Ph.D.: Creating a transformational organization, building a positive and inclusive work culture.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Restaurant General Managers?
Thomas Maier Ph.D.: Financial acumen, technology systems, and data analysis.
What skills will help Restaurant General Managers earn the most?
Thomas Maier Ph.D.: -Driving financial returns
-Recognizing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion
-Differentiating the customer experience
-Understanding the impact social media and user-generated content has on customer loyalty choice