Writing any type of resume can be tricky. However, writing a solid culinary resume is even trickier, as this form of non-traditional resume writing requires creativity in listing skills important to the culinary profession. Most potential employers want you to list experience with computers and programs, as well as any business experience you may have had. When it comes to a culinary resume, potential employers want to know the types of dishes in which you specialize and how well you can utilize spices in your meals. Education is also hugely important.
Instructions
1. Put some thought and creativity into the look of your resume. Professions such as culinary arts give you the ability to be somewhat flexible and creative in the design of your resume. Add small splashes of color or use food-oriented dingbats in the place of bullets. However, don't go overboard with the splashy stuff. Think of them as subtle enhancements to your resume that add some pizzazz to it without overpowering the reader.
2. Emphasize training and education. These are the hallmarks of a good chef. The main things anyone hiring a chef usually wants to know are related to schooling and training. The top chefs in the world are those who either attended reputable culinary institutions and/or trained with seasoned culinary artists. This is the best way to learn hone your skills in both cooking and prep/presentation. Because of its importance, a clear listing of educational credentials should be first on any culinary arts resume. List the name of the school, the full address and phone number as well as the type of degree you obtained and when you obtained it. If you attended more than one culinary arts institution, list them in order of graduation.
3. List any professional experience next. This includes any kind of food-related job you may have held, even if it includes a stint at McDonald's. You want your resume to read more like your personal history with food. Be sure to list complete information, including specific job-related responsibilities, addresses, phone numbers and specific contact information for your former employers--and most important, your reason for leaving. Those wanting to go the extra mile could include a line or two on their resume detailing any new culinary skill they picked up at a particular place of employment.
4. List solid references. Many people present a well-rounded list of people on their resumes, but when it comes to a good culinary arts resume, it's important to stick with people in the food industry. After all, a restaurant looking to retain your services is not necessarily interested in your data entry abilities; it wants to know how good your spinach quiche tastes. And the best people to get that kind of information from are people with whom you worked. Therefore, when listing references, target any chefs, restaurant owners, managers and other important people in the food industry that can attest to your skills.
5. Include an image portfolio. While there is no substitute for tasting, an image portfolio can display your presentation abilities. Glossy photographs of your top five specialties are a great attachment to a solid cover letter and resume. The food presented in your photos should look savory and presented well. This little added boost is what could give you the edge over other candidates.
