You could have years of hospitality experience and still get rejected in seconds. That’s the harsh reality of today’s hiring process. Multiple studies have shown that recruiters spend as little as 6–10 seconds scanning a CV before deciding whether to continue reading. 

In busy hotels and restaurants where lots of applications are received daily, recruiting managers seek immediate proof of value and professionalism. If those elements are not obvious within seconds, even strong candidates can be overlooked.

So, how exactly do you create a hospitality CV that stands out and gets you noticed?

Let’s show you how to do that.

Tested and Trusted Tips to Ensure Your Hospitality CV Stands Out

1. Start with a strong professional summary

2. Tailor your CV to the job advert

3. Use industry-specific keywords to pass ATS screening

4. Include language skills 

5. Showcase customer service skills 

6. Keep it to 2 pages maximum

7. Include relevant certifications

8. Highlight flexibility for evenings and weekends

9. Include UK-based references

10. Use a simple, professional format
     

1. Start with a strong professional summary
The professional summary is the first section a recruiter reads, so it must make an immediate impact. This short paragraph at the top of the CV should clearly state years of experience, area of expertise, and the value brought to the role. It should not be vague or generic. A strong summary is specific and focused.

Instead of writing a broad statement about being hardworking or passionate, highlight concrete strengths. Mention experience in hotel front desk operations, fine dining service, housekeeping supervision, event coordination, or whichever area applies. Include measurable achievements if possible

Check out the latest hospitality jobs in the UK

2. Tailor your CV to the job advert
Sending the same CV to every employer rarely produces strong results. Each hospitality role has different expectations, even when the job titles appear similar. A hotel receptionist role may prioritise booking systems and guest relations, while a restaurant host position may focus more on reservations management and customer flow.

Carefully read the job advert and identify the key skills and responsibilities mentioned. Then adjust the CV to reflect those requirements.

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3. Use industry-specific keywords to pass ATS screening
Many employers now use Applicant Tracking Systems to filter CVs before a human ever sees them. These systems scan for specific keywords related to the role. Without the right terms, even a highly qualified CV can be overlooked. Include words and phrases directly from the job advert, such as “front desk operations”, “guest relations”, “food and beverage service”, “event coordination” or “housekeeping management.” 

4. Include language skills
In the hospitality industry, the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of guests is highly valued. Including language skills on a CV can set a candidate apart, especially in hotels, resorts, and restaurants that cater to international visitors. Clearly list any languages spoken and the level of proficiency, such as fluent, conversational, or basic. If possible, give examples of how language skills were used in a professional setting, such as assisting international guests, taking bookings, or resolving queries.

5. Showcase customer service skills
Customer service is at the heart of the hospitality industry. Employers want to see evidence that a candidate can handle guest interactions professionally, solve problems efficiently, and create positive experiences. Simply stating “excellent customer service skills” is not enough. Use concrete examples to demonstrate these abilities. For instance, mention managing high-volume check-ins at a busy hotel, resolving complaints while maintaining guest satisfaction, or receiving recognition for exceptional service. 

View Top 7 Skills Every Retail Professional Should Have 

6. Keep it to two pages maximum
Recruiters often review dozens of applications in a short period, so clarity and brevity are essential. A CV that is too long can appear unfocused, even if the candidate has strong experience. Two pages is usually enough to showcase skills, experience, and achievements without overwhelming the reader. Focus on the most relevant roles and responsibilities for the job being applied for. 

7. Include relevant certifications
Certifications can immediately demonstrate professionalism and sector knowledge. In hospitality, this could include first aid, food hygiene, health and safety or wine and beverage qualifications. List the certification, the awarding organisation, and the date achieved. Only include current and relevant certifications. These show a commitment to maintaining high standards and can make a candidate more attractive to employers.

8. Highlight flexibility for evenings and weekends
Hospitality roles often require shifts outside standard working hours. Showing availability for evenings, weekends, and bank holidays indicates reliability and understanding of industry demands. This can be included briefly in the professional summary or under a dedicated section for additional information. 

9. Include UK-based references
References are an important part of a hospitality CV, as they provide evidence of reliability, professionalism, and past performance. Including UK-based referees is especially helpful if applying within the country, as employers can easily verify experience. Choose referees who can speak directly about your skills and work ethic, such as former managers, supervisors, or team leaders.

10. Use a simple, professional format
A CV should be easy to read and visually clean. Avoid overly complicated layouts, excessive colours, or fancy fonts that can distract from the content. Use clear headings, consistent bullet points, and standard fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. White space is important, as it makes the CV easier to scan quickly. Bold headings and job titles help guide the recruiter’s eye to key sections. Keep formatting consistent throughout the document, including dates, job titles, and bullet points.

Sample CV for Hospitality Industry  

Anthonia Chloe
London, UK | [email protected] | 07400 123456

Professional Summary
Hospitality professional with over five years of experience in hotel front desk operations and guest services. Skilled in booking management, complaint resolution, and team coordination. Proven ability to improve guest satisfaction scores and support high-volume operations in luxury and mid-scale hotels. Flexible to work evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.

Work Experience

Front Desk Supervisor
The Grand London Hotel – London, UK | Jan 2021 – Present

• Managed daily front desk operations for a 150-room hotel with average occupancy of 90%.

• Supervised a team of 8 receptionists, providing training and performance support.

• Resolved guest complaints efficiently, maintaining a 95% satisfaction rating.

• Implemented a new booking process that reduced check-in time by 15%.

Guest Services Assistant
Hilton London Tower – London, UK | May 2018 – Dec 2020

• Assisted international guests with check-ins, check-outs, and enquiries in English and Spanish.

• Coordinated room allocations during peak periods and special events.

• Recognised in ‘Employee of the Month’ three times for exceptional service.

• Supported event bookings and liaised with catering staff to ensure seamless guest experiences.

Certifications

• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate – Highfield Awarding Body, 2022

• First Aid at Work – St John Ambulance, 2021

• Wine and Beverage Service Training – WSET Level 1, 2019

Skills

• Customer service excellence

• Booking and reservations management

• Complaint resolution

• Team leadership and training

• Fluent in English and conversational Spanish

• Flexible availability for evenings, weekends, and bank holidays

References
John Smith – Front Office Manager, The Grand London Hotel | [email protected] | 07400 654321
Sarah Lewis – Guest Services Manager, Hilton London Tower | [email protected] | 07400 987654

Conclusion

A CV is your chance to make a lasting first impression. Creating one that stands out requires more than listing previous jobs. As discussed in this piece, it is about presenting experience, skills, and achievements in a way that immediately demonstrates value to employers. A clear professional summary, tailored content, relevant keywords, and evidence of customer service excellence can make the difference between being overlooked and securing an interview. Wishing you goodluck in your job search.