At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist guests with bookings and provide a warm, welcoming experience.
- Company: Join a vibrant hotel team with a focus on guest satisfaction.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive rates, discounts, free meals, and wellness support.
- Other info: Flexible hours, great team events, and career development opportunities await!
- Why this job: Make a real impact on guests' experiences while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Previous reservations experience and strong communication skills required.
Overview
We have an exciting and rare opportunity to join our Reservations team in a flexible working capacity. This is a Temporary role - up to 24 hours per week over 3 days (October - January). You will be assisting guests on the phone whilst they are making bookings for the hotel and providing them with a warm and welcoming experience and anticipating their every need. You will be a strong communicator and able to engage with our guests to provide them with a seamless booking procedure and set the tone for the experience they will receive when they stay with us.
Responsibilities
- Promote an always welcome and professional image to the guest, and give full co-operation to any guest requiring assistance, forging great relationships
- Process all reservation requests, changes, and cancellations received by phone, fax, or mail in a timely manner
- Identify guest reservation needs and determine appropriate room type. Verify availability of room type and rate. Explain guarantee, special rate, and cancellation policies to guests. Accommodate and document special requests. Answer questions about property facilities/services and room accommodations. Follow sales techniques to maximize revenue. Input and access data in reservation system
- Generating sales among client accounts, including up-selling and cross-selling
- Dealing with large bookings and group bookings, issuing quotes and contracts and attending show-round and client meetings to close sales
- Deliver effective communication between the office, reception, housekeeping, accounts and operations teams ensuring successful delivery of all requests and requirements
- Ensure all guests and company information are stored and managed in a safe and confidential manner, shared only on a need-to-know basis
Ideal candidate
- Previous experience as a Reservations Agent in a 4/5* Hotel
- Experience using Opera
- Customer focus and exceptional guest service levels
- Experience in the Birmingham City Centre market is highly desirable
- Ability to drive sales and upsell
- Pro-active attitude
- Remarkable written and verbal communication skills
- Personality, flair and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively at all levels
Benefits
- Competitive colleague and friend & family rates for overnight stays at the hotel
- 50% employee discounts on food and beverage at hotel outlets
- Access to our exclusive benefits portal, including extensive discounts on retail, travel and leisure activities
- Employee Referral scheme, financially rewarded for introducing someone to our team
- Free meals on duty in our dining facilities
- Access to Hospitality Action, our Employee Assistance programme with 24/7 health and wellbeing support
- Rewards and recognition for living and breathing our company values
- Monthly employee recognition and rewards programme
- Regular team appreciation events, including regular employee parties throughout the year
- Career development opportunities, including access to apprenticeship programmes
- Use of Wagestream financial wellbeing platform, allowing instant access to your pay
Reservations Agent in Birmingham employer: The Grand Hotel Birmingham
Join our dynamic Reservations team in Birmingham City Centre, where we prioritise a warm and welcoming work culture that values exceptional guest service. Enjoy competitive benefits such as generous discounts, career development opportunities, and a supportive environment that fosters personal growth and recognition for your contributions. With flexible working hours and a focus on employee wellbeing, this is an excellent opportunity for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
The Grand Hotel Birmingham Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reservations Agent in Birmingham
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Trends
With temporary roles often popping up during busy seasons, like summer or festive times, keep an eye out for openings as these businesses ramp up. Joining local community groups on social media can also help you stay ahead of the game: think pop-up events, seasonal fairs, or any openings in your area!
✨Utilise Your Network in the Industry
We all know people in the hospitality world, right? Now's the time to message those friends or acquaintances who might already be working in restaurants or bars. They could give you the insider scoop on who’s hiring or even put in a good word for you – it’s all about that inside connection!
✨Apply Through Us for Quick Visibility
Don't forget you can apply for temporary roles directly through our website! It’s not just about the big chain restaurants; many smaller, local places look there for quick hires. Plus, it helps us get you on the radar of employers looking for passionate workers like you, so what are you waiting for?
We think you need these skills to ace Reservations Agent in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Grand Hotel Birmingham
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at The Grand Hotel Birmingham. During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
