12 things that graduating Culinary Students must consider

It is the time of year when many young chefs are leaving Culinary School to make their mark in the industry. Here are some words of encouragement

1. Work in a Variety of Kitchens: Gain experience in different types of kitchens, such as restaurants, hotels, catering, and more. This will broaden your culinary knowledge and skills, providing you with a well-rounded foundation.
2. Learn from Others: Be open to learning from experienced chefs and mentors. Absorb their knowledge, techniques, and insights. Ask questions and seek feedback to continually improve.
3. Master the Basics: Focus on mastering the basics of cooking. Understanding foundational techniques and ingredients will form the backbone of your culinary expertise.
4. Embrace Creativity: Experiment with different flavors, ingredients, and cooking styles. Develop your own unique culinary identity and signature dishes.
5. Stay Updated: Keep yourself informed about the latest trends, techniques, and innovations in the culinary industry. Attend workshops, seminars, and events to stay current and inspired.
6. Time Management: Develop strong time management skills to handle the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of a professional kitchen. Prioritize tasks effectively and stay organized.
7. Attention to Detail: Pay attention to even the smallest details in your dishes. Consistency and attention to presentation will set you apart in the competitive culinary world.
8. Networking: Build a strong professional network within the culinary community. Attend industry events, join associations, and connect with fellow chefs and food professionals. Networking can open up opportunities for growth and collaboration.
9. Adaptability: Be flexible and adaptable in your approach to cooking. The culinary industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, so being open to change is essential.
10. Passion and Perseverance: Maintain your passion for cooking and persevere through challenges. Remember that success in the culinary world often requires dedication, hard work, and resilience.
11. Customer Feedback: Value customer feedback and use it to refine your skills and dishes. Understand your target audience and strive to meet their preferences and expectations.
12. Personal Well-Being: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being. The demanding nature of the culinary world can be physically and emotionally taxing, so taking care of yourself is crucial for long-term success.

By following these pieces of advice, you can build a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling culinary career. Good luck!

Stephen Hickmore

Stephen is a hospitality professional from Johannesburg South Africa. His career started with THF hotels in the UK and subsequently with the Southern Sun Hotel group in Johannesburg. Stephen’s first steps into entrepreneurship was Hickmore Recruitment / CareerMap,  a leading supplier of Senior and Exec recruitment services.  Stephen was a founder  of Pple Hospitality (formerly HSC) the largest Hospitality Industry full-service outsourced staffing company in South Africa. In March 2020 Stephen became a director and owner of the Swiss Hotel School South Africa, which is now his full time passion.

SHS – Institute of Hospitality Management

SHS – Institute of Culinary Arts

Stephen writes for a number of publications on food and hospitality industry matters, trends and opinions. He also hosts a Podcast on Spotify “Hospitality Insight with The SilverFox”