Whether you’re a qualified Sous Chef or you’re eager to get into hospitality, it’s always helpful to give yourself a personality check-up. You can start by asking yourself a few questions.
We talked with Chris Chabot, 23, a First Cook at an upscale restaurant in Vancouver, British Columbia to see how he reevaluates his own career path.
Q: What do I want to do?
A: I want to become an Executive Chef.
Q: What did I like most about my last job?
A: Small staff, camaraderie, and the whole team aspect—the fact that the owners and the kitchen staff work as a team.
Q: What do I want to do more of in my next job?
A: I want to do more of the leadership; focus less on the cooking and more on the management side. I want to improve my management skills so I can work my way up.
Q: What is my ideal work environment?
A: Some place that’s professional but enjoyable. A place that has a small staff that gets along very well and is a strong team.
Q: What is my preference—to work independently or as part of a team?
A: Part of a team.
Q: What amount of traveling am I willing to do?
A: Right now, I would be willing to travel anywhere. I’m single and I have nothing to tie me down.
Q: What motivates me?
A: I love to cook. I love the passion for it. It’s enjoyable. You put a lot of effort into something and you get to see the reward from the guests.
Q: What companies intrigue me?
A: Four Seasons, Fairmont, and any Relais & Chateau because of the high standards and the high caliber of food.
Q: What skills do I have to do a specific job?
A: A background in culinary arts, either an apprenticeship or a degree from a well-accredited college. I went to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.
Q: What skills do I have that I do not use right now?
A: My food costing and menu pricing skills because I’m not at that level right now. As well as purchasing and choosing supplies. That’s more at the management level.
Q: What area could I get more training in, and how long would it take?
A: More training in management and ordering supplies. There’s nothing that I can’t learn in the workplace.
Q: What do past employers/peers/teachers say are my best attributes?
A: Professionalism, creativity, and teamwork skills.
10 Ways to Get to Know Yourself Better
- Look at your achievements in school or work
- Identify your favorite hobbies and activities
- Talk with friends and family members
- Consult with a professional counselor
- Keep a journal
- Write a personal mission statement
- Set short-term and long-term goals
- Job shadow and talk to people in a variety of positions
- Sign up for a crash course in an area of interest
- Take career and personality quizzes”
* Note: There is an overwhelming number of free and fee-based personality and career quizzes available. They will not change your life nor will they determine the career path you must take. Think of them as a quick and fun way to confirm what you probably already know about yourself.