Top Networking Tips to Get a Job in the Denver Hospitality Industry

Are you on the hunt for a job in the Denver hospitality industry? Do struggle to make connections and know who to talk to? Networking in hospitality is crucial on your job search journey, let’s chat about why and how you can get started with this list of networking tips for young professionals in Denver! But first…

Why Should You Care?

Networking is a commonly skipped step in the job search process, no matter what industry we’re talking about, but especially when it comes to hospitality jobs in Attractions, Events, Hotels, Food & Beverage, or Outdoor Recreation. Nowadays, it isn’t just about clicking apply or collecting business cards, it’s about who you know, who knows you, and what that connection can lead to. When many managers are looking to hire someone new, the first thing they do is ask their network if they know of anyone. This industry thrives on relationships and word-of-mouth referrals. After all, hospitality is an industry built on people. In hospitality, soft skills like communication and charm are some of the most important skills, which can’t be represented on a resume. So personal referrals and in-person interactions carry a lot of weight.

But What Can Networking Really Do For Me?

A strong network can provide valuable insights into job openings, industry trends, and professional growth. At the end of the day, it will build your reputation as someone who is engaged and forward-thinking and will get your name on the minds of industry professionals. Putting some effort into making connections and cultivating relationships will teach you to network efficiently and before you know it:

1. You’ll Find More Job Opportunities: You can learn about internships, work placements, and part- or full-time industry work that may not be advertised elsewhere. Many employers are looking for people who not only look good on paper, but are well-liked by peers, professors, or past employers.
2. You’ll Discover Insider Insights: If you’re just starting out, advice and insights from higher-ups are a huge part of your success and growth. Take advantage of what they’re telling you, listen as well as talk, and make notes about emerging opportunities, changes in trends, and any challenges you might not have otherwise considered.
3. You May Pick Up a Mentor Along The Way: If you’re new to the industry or just starting out, building a hospitality network can be a great way to find mentors who will guide you through the process and any challenges you might face along the way.
4. Your New Network Will Lead to More Networks: The more people you know, the more people you’ll meet based on who the people you know, know….get it? This growing hospitality network will open doors to new job opportunities, events, organizations, and businesses you didn’t even know existed in Denver.

How To Network Effectively In the Denver Hospitality Industry

Here are 7 networking tips for young professionals to get you started on your industry networking journey:

1. 1. Attend Events: Don’t get hung up on the size of the event or who is hosting it. Events, no matter what, are a great way to meet new people in the industry and get your name out there. Events might look like: talks, workshops, courses, ‘meet the chef’ events, or seminars. Anything is great! Eventually, you may start hosting your own events, which is a great way to establish your professional place in the industry as you grow. Consider looking into and interacting with Denver-specific hospitality organizations such as The Colorado Hotel and Lodging Association, The Colorado Restaurant Association, or The Hospitality Human Resource Association, to name a few.
   2. Leverage Social Media, Especially LinkedIn: Social media is a great way to build your brand. Who are you? What are you interested in? What is your edge that no one else has? If you’re active on social media, you may have more opportunities to interact with industry insiders. Use your social media to follow and connect with other professionals strategically. You can ask for intros from people you know or those you want to know. LinkedIn also has so many tools and tricks at your disposal for learning and networking and makes it very easy to send people messages. This is a great place to follow up with people you connected with at events and follow businesses or people in sectors of hospitality you are interested in. LinkedIn and Instagram are great platforms to start on.
   3. Reach Out to Industry Professionals: The key to further nurturing your professional relationships is to keep in touch regularly. Make sure you are following up with all the connections you make at the events, on social media, and through professional organizations. This is also a great opportunity to ask for advice and begin a mentorship with a fellow hospitality professional.
   4. Volunteer or Participate in Community Events: If you hear of any local community events going on, ask if there are any opportunities for you to volunteer! Whether it’s one of the events we talked about earlier or a grand opening, chat with your network, send some emails, and see how you might be able to contribute outside of getting paid.
   5. Maximize Internship & Part-Time Opportunities: Your University or College may have opportunities for you to be immediately placed into an internship or work placement during summers, for a semester, or following graduation. This type of hands-on experience will not only enhance your skills but grow your network as well. Who knows, you may even get a job out of it! Restaurants, sporting arenas, ski resorts, event production companies, outdoor recreation companies, and attractions are often looking for part-time or seasonal employees, this is another great way to get your foot in the door and prove your worth.
   6. Informational Interviews: Informational interviews are casual conversations with professionals or businesses related to the career path you’re interested in pursuing. Usually in these interviews, you’ll learn about a specific company, the industry as a whole, or different positions available to you within your interests. These interviews are great for connecting with possible employers, getting tips, gaining insider knowledge, and building relationships that will help you down the road. It’s a great idea to connect with alumni from the College or University you attended, they would be excellent people to interview and connect with if they are already working and established in the hospitality industry. Make it easy for people to set up a time to meet with you. Maybe have an email template prepared with a calendar link and send it out to at least 5 people. One is bound to say yes!

Do’s & Don’t’s: How to Network Effectively

Do

• Follow up with your connections – send thank yous!
• Make a positive first impression.
• Use active listening.
• Ask open-ended questions and feel welcome to take notes.
• Be truthful & authentic.
• Remember details about professionals — practice those memory skills!
• Have an elevator pitch ready.

Don’t

• Do all the talking.
• Take advantage of someone’s kindness or time – know when the conversation has ended.
• Avoid events because you’re nervous (everyone is!).
• Leave your LinkedIn static — make sure you’re staying active!
• Be unprepared (remember that elevator pitch!).
• Bop around too fast from person to person — people value authentic time spent chatting with someone. Quality over quantity.

Ready to Get Started?

First, you may want to gauge the state of the job market, what’s available, and what sectors of hospitality might interest you. We’ve collected a list of open positions across Denver’s hospitality industry! Explore the available jobs here.