Lack of qualifications: how can I make it as a Chef?
With lots of experience but no formal qualifications, is it possible to climb the career ladder?
The issue
I have ten years' experience in small, privately-run restaurants. Now I want to move into a well-respected establishment with two rosettes or above.
My cooking is excellent, but my repertoire is not great and I have no qualifications as a Chef. I'm prepared to go in at Chef de Partie level and take a pay cut, but I'm still finding no one will take me on.
Where do I go from here?
Expert answer
Alison Clarke, human resources director at Whitbread Restaurants, replies:
There is a huge demand for skilled, experienced kitchen personnel ? and despite your concerns, you are a highly marketable person.
Take action
Step back and re-evaluate your options:
- Try looking at branded restaurants. Many of them are now providing opportunities to demonstrate individual flair and salaries are becoming more competitive. This environment could also provide you with structured development and progression.
- Structure your portfolio to focus on your experience, giving examples of your reliability and long service.
- Try offering yourself on a trial basis free for a day's experience. This will give you the chance to show what you can do.
...and remember
You may want to consider getting some formal qualifications, although many employers do have educational programmes that run alongside your working life.
My feeling is that you are simply looking at a very narrow window of opportunity and need to broaden your scope. If you do this and look critically at how you market yourself, you will find opportunities very quickly.