Ability to Work with People

Few of you will work in an establishment so small you are the only person on the staff. Food-service work is teamwork, and it’s essential to be able to work well on a team and to cooperate with your fellow workers. You can’t afford to let ego problems, petty jealousy, departmental rivalries, or feelings about other people get in the way of doing your job well. Today’s kitchens hold people of many races, nationalities, and origins, some of whom speak languages different from yours. You have to be able to work on the same team as everyone. In the old days, many chefs were famous for their temper tantrums. Fortunately, self-control is more valued today.