Interested in a cooking career? How to get started

Love nothing more than trying new flavours combinations, whipping up meals to impress friends and family, and excel when it comes to working under pressure? Then a career in cooking could be your calling! Whether you’re just finishing school and are considering your career path, or simply fancy a change when it comes to your line of work, here’s how to get started in a cooking career:

Gain some experience

You don’t necessarily need any qualifications when it comes a cooking career but you will require a little experience. This needs to be in an eating establishment, whether it’s offering up your services one day at the weekend in busy hours to watch how the kitchen is run, or making the most out of a job waiting tables that you already hold at the weekend.

Decide on your niche

Those working in the catering industry have certain skills and niches that they prefer to work in. Someone who excels when it comes to Italian cuisine might not be happiest working in an Indian restaurant, for example, so give some thought to what kind of food you want to cook, and what kind of establishment would suit you best.

Training will help your applications

We’ve already noted that you don’t need qualifications to get started but there’s no harm in having them. If nothing else, they’ll show that you’re committed to the idea of cooking career, and they’ll help you to feel confident in a professional kitchen environment. The National Careers Service website recommends considering a variety of courses, such as a Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Professional Cookery or a Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles. These courses can be found via a quick Google search, and you should be able to find a cooking academy or a college nearby that offers something suitable.

Be prepared to start small

No matter how much training you undertake before applying for jobs, you will always start at the bottom of the ladder and work your way up. Be prepared to take on the less important, supporting roles in the kitchen - such as food preparation - but understand that this is great experience for the future!

Find an establishment that believes in you

Most who enter a cooking career remain with the same restaurant throughout their climb up the career ladder. This is because there’s a lot to be said for someone who believes in your skills as a chef, and an employer who wants to do all they can to help you progress is invaluable. Look for a restaurant that offers training on the job and is passionate about helping develop your cooking talents – you’ll be on to a winner!

Practice, practice, practice

No one gets better instantly overnight. This is why you need to dedicate time at home to honing your skills, so see if you can sign up some hungry friends and family members! Practicing at home is critical for impressing the head chef with your perfect piping or fantastic fish, and will ensure that you serve up the best dishes possible for your loyal customers. Don’t be afraid to experiment too: a new idea for the menu could get you the recognition you deserve.

Getting started in the catering industry is all about being passionate, loving food and pushing yourself to develop your skills. Do all these things and you’ll end up on a fast track to gastro greatness!

We have a great selection of Career Opportunities that are based around cookery skills, please see them here.