Wednesday, 20 June 2012

What's needed to be a great caterer

By Sandy Rogers


"I don't like food that's too carefully arranged; it makes me think that the chef is spending too much time arranging and not enough time cooking. If I wanted a picture, I'd buy a painting." is a famous quote from the late Andy Rooney.

It is a fact that though the chefs make tasty food, this prepared food has to be delivered to those who host parties or who are not in a position to come to the restaurant. That means a caterer.

Which are the skills required to be a good caterer?

The important skills include being a master planner and entrepreneur with excellent communication skills and you need to start off being a quality chef and also have the ability to transport food smoothly.

Catering means you know the food business. You have to have the skills of a master chef so you can prepare those special items most people want at their parties or other get togethers. Not just any cook can do this. It takes the dedication, practice, and training as a master chef.

Skills for social interaction is essential for catering. You will be dealing with a variety of customers who have differing needs. So a look to understand your customer's needs, how they want them met and when they need them. Any problems should be met with understanding and a quick solution. While doing all these services you should not forget to wear a smile always.

Since a lot of food can spoil, good logistics can save you a lot of headaches and money. Practice and experience is the key for acquiring this skill. Along with know-how, you also need to have special equipment and transportation.

Catering means you have to be a master planner. You need to handle several orders and ensure that the time schedule is managed. Timing is necessary and that takes a master planner. Getting the right software can make this easy. That implies computer skills or hiring someone to handle the dispatching.

You need to be alert and take on the spot decisions. Its not unusual for a perspective client to ask you about candy buffet ideas on the spot for their gathering. Coming up with the right answer will get you the job.

Finally, catering means being a entrepreneur. Technology moves fast. That means you have to keep up with the times. Take into consideration the cost factor too. You have to be up on what people want and might need. Master these skills and you will be able to serve people with quality food you enjoy preparing, doing it efficiently, on time with a smile on your face.




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