If you have always loved to play in the kitchen and you could spend every day creating new recipes and culinary combinations as an adult, a career as a Chef might be the best one for you. In such a competitive industry, however, one might wonder: how can I become a successful Chef? Any successful culinary genius, from Gordon Ramsey to Jean Christophe Novelli, will tell you: there is no secret. The road to success in the hospitality industry is made of hard work, passion, stressful nights and great rewards. If you think this is the career for you, keep reading and find out how to become a successful Chef.
Experience in the Kitchen
All successful Chefs started from the bottom and inevitably worked their way up. Your first job in the kitchen will be as a helper more than a doer. This is a great way to get your bearings, see how things work in the kitchen, feel the pressure of the weekend crowd and get progressively faster and more efficient through experience. It is a great way to get your feet wet and start learning while working. Getting less prestigious jobs in the kitchen will also make you appreciate every side of preparing a meal from start to finish and cultivate your passion as a result.
Practice
While many might think practising at work will be enough, practising at home will also be necessary, this will help you develop your skills, and identify where your true passions lie. When you are at home it is important you constantly try to improve and perfect recipes as they will eventually help you get the Chef position of your dreams, find your perfect style and unique talents.
By realising your strengths and weaknesses early on, you will be able to determine what type of courses you could do and where you may be able to improve.
Education
While going to cooking school is not a necessary requirement to become a Chef, it may be sought after to display qualifications when applying for a position at the most prestigious restaurants. Especially when it comes to specific niches, formal education might be the key to your success. If you are looking to eventually open your own restaurant, make sure you also follow some business and accounting classes, as they might be extremely helpful.
Work your way up
Even after your experience as a kitchen helper, your home practice and gaining a formal education, becoming Head Chef will take persistent hard work. You will become a Chef through years of experience and practice so don’t get demoralised when applying for jobs in the hospitality industry. Always make sure your passion, hard work and innovation are shown and you will become a successful Chef in no time.
Are you looking for a career in the hospitality industry but you don’t know where to start? Contact us, we will be happy to help you find the best job for you!