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👋 If you’ve Googled “restaurant hostess job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over:
Bullet points.
Corporate buzzwords.
Dry phrases like “Must greet guests in a professional manner.”
And somehow—none of them tell you how to actually attract someone great for the role.
Here’s the truth:
Most hostess job descriptions sound like they were copied from a handbook. They don’t connect with real people. They don’t sell the job. And they definitely don’t inspire the kind of person you actually want at your front door—warm, confident, and calm under pressure.
But writing a great job description isn’t about being flashy—it’s about being intentional.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to write a hostess job description that not only explains the job, but attracts the right kind of people—even if they’re deciding between 3 other offers. We’ll show you:
- What the role really is (in plain English)
- Two example templates (for experience and entry-level)
- A breakdown of what makes a post great
- One bad example (so you don’t make the same mistakes)
- Plus tips to help your job post stand out—even in a competitive hiring market
Before we get into it, if you haven’t yet, check out our ffull guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ for even more strategy behind why most job descriptions fail—and how to fix that.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
What Does a Restaurant Hostess Actually Do?
A hostess isn’t just someone who greets customers—they’re the first impression of your entire restaurant.
They set the tone for every guest’s experience, from the moment someone walks in to the moment they’re seated. A great hostess is part traffic controller, part customer service expert, and part vibe manager. They make guests feel welcome, manage wait times with grace, and keep things running smoothly when it’s busy.
Here’s the plain-English version:
“A restaurant hostess welcomes guests, manages the waitlist, answers phone calls, and helps coordinate the front-of-house flow. They’re the friendly face people meet first—and the calm presence that keeps everything organized on busy nights. They need great communication skills, confidence under pressure, and a warm, people-first attitude.”
The job might sound simple, but it has a big impact. If your hostess is sharp, friendly, and organized, guests are more likely to enjoy their visit—and come back again.
Two Great Job Description Templates for a Restaurant Hostess
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Hostesses (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: Hostess Needed at Juniper House — A Busy Modern Bistro in Uptown Charlotte
💼 Position Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
⏰ Schedule: Evening & Weekend Shifts (Flexible)
💵 Pay: $17–$20/hour + Tip Share
🎥 A Quick Word from Our Manager
We want you to hear about the role from the person you’ll be working with.
👉 Watch this 60-second video from our Front-of-House Manager, Rachel.
🍽️ Who We Are
Juniper House is a 90-seat modern bistro in Uptown Charlotte known for seasonal Southern-inspired fare, warm service, and a steady flow of loyal locals. We’ve built our reputation on consistency, care, and a team-first mindset. Our restaurant runs on communication, respect, and a shared love for creating memorable guest experiences. We’re looking for a seasoned hostess who can keep things running smoothly during busy dinner service while welcoming guests with confidence and professionalism.
🛠️ What You’ll Be Doing
- Greet guests warmly and manage the waitlist using Resy
- Answer phone calls and assist with reservations, directions, or menu questions
- Coordinate with servers and floor staff to ensure a smooth table rotation
- Monitor dining room status and communicate seating availability
- Maintain a clean, organized host stand and entry area
- Be the first point of calm and friendliness during rushes
🎯 What We’re Looking For
- 1+ year experience as a restaurant hostess or front-of-house team member
- Excellent communication and multitasking skills
- Familiarity with tools like Resy or OpenTable is a plus
- Neat appearance and warm demeanor
- Comfortable managing waitlists during peak hours
- Someone who brings good energy to the room—we’re big on collaboration
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Shared tip pool for front-of-house team
- Complimentary staff meal every shift
- Flexible scheduling with time-off requests honored
- Birthday off (paid)
- Staff discounts on food and drinks
- Growth opportunities to shift lead or server roles
- Paid training and team workshops every quarter
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’ll be a key player in a restaurant that runs on mutual respect, open communication, and care. You won’t just be stationed at the front—you’ll be part of the reason people come back. We move quickly, support each other, and believe great service starts with a team that’s genuinely happy to be here.
📥 How to Apply
We review every application through WorkScreen to make our hiring process fair and efficient. You’ll complete a quick, friendly evaluation (no résumé upload needed) so we can understand how you work.
Apply here: [Insert your WorkScreen link]
✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level Hostess (Willing to Train)
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Hostess Wanted at Bayfront Kitchen — Join Our Waterfront Team!
💼 Position Type: Part-Time
⏰ Schedule: Weekday Evenings + One Weekend Shift
💵 Pay: $15/hour + Tip Share
🎥 A Quick Word from Our Hiring Manager
Hear directly from Zoe, our general manager, about what it’s like to join the Bayfront team.
👉 Watch Zoe’s welcome message.
🍽️ Who We Are
Bayfront Kitchen is a laid-back, waterfront restaurant in Clearwater Beach serving fresh seafood, cocktails, and coastal classics. We’re a popular spot for both locals and tourists, with a team that feels more like a family than a staff. We believe in giving people a shot—even if they don’t have hospitality experience. All we ask is that you show up on time, with a smile, and a willingness to learn. We’ll teach you the rest.
🛠️ What You’ll Be Doing
- Greet and seat guests with a friendly, upbeat attitude
- Learn to manage our waitlist and reservation flow
- Communicate with the kitchen and server team
- Help answer phones and guide guests with questions
- Keep the front entry tidy and welcoming
- Support front-of-house needs (menus, seating, basic prep)
🎯 What We’re Looking For
- No experience required—we’ll train you
- Friendly, dependable, and eager to learn
- Someone who likes people and can handle a fast pace
- Available for evening shifts and at least one weekend day
- Punctual, professional, and positive attitude
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Tip share program for front-of-house team
- Free staff meal every shift
- Team social events (monthly beach BBQs, trivia nights)
- Casual dress code with logo-branded polos provided
- Paid hands-on training from day one
- Discounts on meals for friends and family
- Birthday shift off (no questions asked)
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This is a perfect role for someone starting out or changing careers. You’ll learn valuable customer service skills, work with a friendly and supportive team, and get a real taste of hospitality. We believe in growing from within—and several of our managers started right here as hosts.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make our hiring process simple, fair, and transparent. Just follow the link below to apply—no résumé required. Complete a short evaluation and we’ll be in touch shortly.
Apply here: [Insert your WorkScreen link]
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Why These Hostess Job Descriptions Actually Work
Let’s unpack what makes the two job posts above effective. Whether you’re hiring for a polished bistro or a laid-back beachside restaurant, these job descriptions have one goal: attract the right kind of person.
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Purpose-Driven
- Instead of: “Hostess Wanted”
- You get: “Hostess Needed at Juniper House — A Busy Modern Bistro in Uptown Charlotte”
- This immediately signals the setting, tone, and what kind of candidate would thrive there.
Specificity improves relevance—and attracts more serious, qualified applicants.
✅ 2. The Introduction Connects on a Human Level
Both posts open with a quick intro from the team, including a video from the hiring manager.
Why this matters:
- People apply to people—not to bullet points.
- A 60-second Loom or YouTube video builds trust and makes the post stand out from dozens of faceless job ads.
- It shows you’re intentional about the candidate experience right from the start.
✅ 3. The “About Us” Section Tells a Real Story
Rather than a dry, boilerplate paragraph, each post includes a company intro that:
- Describes the vibe and style of the restaurant
- Explains what makes the team unique
- Makes the candidate feel the work environment
This helps candidates visualize what they’re joining—before they even apply.
✅ 4. Responsibilities Are Framed Around Impact, Not Just Tasks
Instead of saying:
“Manage reservations and greet guests.”
It says:
“Be the first point of calm and friendliness during rushes.”
That difference may seem small—but it reframes the job as meaningful. And that’s what attracts people who care.
✅ 5. The Qualifications Feel Inclusive, Not Rigid
- The experienced version lists relevant, realistic skills without being overly demanding.
- The entry-level version openly encourages candidates with no experience to apply.
This approach widens your talent pool—without lowering standards.
✅ 6. Perks and Benefits Are Separated and Transparent
Each post clearly outlines:
- Tangible benefits (free meals, tip sharing, flexible scheduling)
- Unique perks (birthday off, beach BBQs, staff discounts)
Transparency builds trust and reduces back-and-forth questions later in the hiring process.
✅ 7. The “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section Makes the Role Feel Personal
This is the emotional anchor. It tells the applicant:
“You’ll matter here. Your effort will be noticed. This isn’t just a shift—it’s a team.”
That message—when genuine—is magnetic to people who want more than just a paycheck.
✅ 8. The Application Process Is Respectful and Modern
Rather than the usual:
“Email your résumé to info@restaurant.com,”
Both posts use WorkScreen, which:
- Shows professionalism and fairness
- Screens for real skills instead of just resumes
- Gives the applicant a clear, predictable next step
This format works because it reflects what great candidates actually care about:
Clarity. Culture. Fairness. Purpose.
Bad Restaurant Hostess Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
📌 Job Title: Hostess Needed
Company: Local Family Restaurant
Position Type: Full-Time
Location: Not Specified
Pay: Not Disclosed
Job Summary
We are looking to hire a hostess to join our team. The ideal candidate will greet guests, manage the front, and assist in keeping the dining area running smoothly.
Responsibilities
- Greet and seat guests
- Maintain waitlist
- Clean menus and front area
- Answer phones
Requirements
- Must be polite and professional
- Prior restaurant experience preferred
- Weekend availability required
How to Apply
Send your résumé to localrestaurantjobs@email.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🧯 Why This Job Post Fails to Attract Great Candidates
❌ 1. The Job Title Is Generic
“Hostess Needed” gives zero insight into where, what kind of restaurant, or what type of team they’d be joining.
Top candidates scroll right past this kind of title—it blends into a sea of sameness.
❌ 2. The Company Description Doesn’t Exist
There’s no who, why, or where.
The post says nothing about the restaurant’s values, vibe, or mission. A great hostess is a culture match—and this post gives no culture to match with.
❌ 3. The Pay Is Omitted
This is one of the fastest ways to lose good candidates.
People don’t apply blindly anymore. Not showing pay signals a lack of transparency and sets the tone for poor communication.
❌ 4. The Responsibilities Are Vague and Robotic
“Answer phones. Clean menus.”
This reads like a chore list, not a role with purpose or energy.
There’s no storytelling, no ownership, and no indication of how this job affects the guest experience or team success.
❌ 5. The Requirements Feel Like Bare Minimums
They don’t inspire confidence or effort—they simply screen people out.
There’s no encouragement, no focus on personality or soft skills, and no invitation to apply if you’re newer to the role.
❌ 6. The Application Process Feels Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.”
This kind of line pushes people away—especially high-quality candidates who expect a respectful process. It implies you don’t have time for them, and they’ll go elsewhere.
❌ 7. The Tone Is Cold and Lifeless
There’s no warmth, no personality, no sense that someone human even wrote it.
Top-tier applicants look for signs of thoughtfulness in how a company communicates. This post? It’s giving copy-paste energy.
This example might check the legal boxes—but it completely misses the human ones.
🧯 Why This Job Post Fails to Attract Great Candidates
❌ 1. The Job Title Is Generic
“Hostess Needed” gives zero insight into where, what kind of restaurant, or what type of team they’d be joining.
Top candidates scroll right past this kind of title—it blends into a sea of sameness.
❌ 2. The Company Description Doesn’t Exist
There’s no who, why, or where.
The post says nothing about the restaurant’s values, vibe, or mission. A great hostess is a culture match—and this post gives no culture to match with.
❌ 3. The Pay Is Omitted
This is one of the fastest ways to lose good candidates.
People don’t apply blindly anymore. Not showing pay signals a lack of transparency and sets the tone for poor communication.
❌ 4. The Responsibilities Are Vague and Robotic
“Answer phones. Clean menus.”
This reads like a chore list, not a role with purpose or energy.
There’s no storytelling, no ownership, and no indication of how this job affects the guest experience or team success.
❌ 5. The Requirements Feel Like Bare Minimums
They don’t inspire confidence or effort—they simply screen people out.
There’s no encouragement, no focus on personality or soft skills, and no invitation to apply if you’re newer to the role.
❌ 6. The Application Process Feels Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.”
This kind of line pushes people away—especially high-quality candidates who expect a respectful process. It implies you don’t have time for them, and they’ll go elsewhere.
❌ 7. The Tone Is Cold and Lifeless
There’s no warmth, no personality, no sense that someone human even wrote it.
Top-tier applicants look for signs of thoughtfulness in how a company communicates. This post? It’s giving copy-paste energy.
This example might check the legal boxes—but it completely misses the human ones.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Hostess Job Post Pop
1. Add an IMPORTANT NOTICE for Applicant Privacy & Safety
Candidates want to feel safe applying. Include a short note like:
“We take your privacy seriously. We will never ask for payment or personal financial information during our hiring process.”
This builds trust upfront and keeps scammers out.
2. Be Transparent About Leave and Flexibility
If you offer any paid time off, flexible scheduling, or shift swaps, mention it clearly:
“Enjoy flexible scheduling and the ability to swap shifts with plenty of notice.”
Or:
“We offer paid vacation after 6 months of employment.”
These perks are real magnets for hospitality workers.
3. Highlight Training and Growth Opportunities
Especially for entry-level roles, make clear you invest in your team:
“Paid on-the-job training provided.”
“Many of our hosts have grown into servers, bartenders, or management roles.”
This signals long-term potential instead of just a gig.
4. Use Video to Build Connection
If possible, add a short video (even 30 seconds) from your manager or team welcoming applicants.
People want to see a face and hear a voice—it humanizes your brand and stands out in a sea of text.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Show Your Culture in Your Language
Use phrases that reflect your restaurant’s vibe. For example, if you’re a casual spot:
“We’re a laid-back team that values good vibes and great service.”
If you’re upscale:
“Our team takes pride in polished hospitality and seamless guest experiences.”
This helps candidates self-select and feel seen.
6. Include a Clear, Friendly Call to Action
Instead of “Email your résumé,” try:
“Ready to join our team? Apply through WorkScreen for a quick and fair evaluation. We can’t wait to meet you!”
Make it welcoming and easy.
Using AI to Write Job Posts: The Right Way and the Wrong Way
AI can be a helpful assistant, but it’s not a magic wand—especially when it comes to writing job descriptions that attract great candidates.
❌ The Wrong Way:
Just type in “Write me a hostess job description” and copy-paste whatever AI gives you.
Why that’s a problem:
- You get generic, bland content that doesn’t reflect your restaurant’s unique culture or needs.
- The post sounds robotic and forgettable.
- It attracts the wrong candidates or people just mass-applying everywhere.
✅ The Right Way:
Use AI as a tool to polish and organize your message — but start with your own clear input.
Give AI:
- Details about your restaurant’s style and values
- The exact responsibilities and skills you want
- Tone guidance (friendly, professional, casual, upscale)
- Any perks or benefits you offer
For example, prompt it like this:
“Help me write a hostess job description for Juniper House, a modern bistro in Charlotte. We want a warm, confident person who can handle a busy dining room. We offer flexible shifts, tip sharing, and growth opportunities. Our tone is friendly but professional.Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]”
Then, review and tweak what AI generates to make it truly yours.
💡 Bottom line:
AI can save you time — but it can’t replace the human touch that makes your job post stand out and truly connect with candidates.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
We know that sometimes, you just need something solid—fast.
Maybe you’ve read the guide and understand what makes a great job post. But you also want a professional, ready-to-use template you can copy, paste, and customize in just a few minutes.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Style
📌 Job Title: Hostess at [Company Name] — Be Our Front-of-House Star!
💼 Position: [Full-Time/Part-Time] | Flexible Shifts
💵 Pay: $[Insert Salary Range] + Tips
📍 Location: [City, State]
🎥 A Quick Word from Our Manager
Hear from our team about what it’s like to work here.
👉 [Insert Link to Hiring Manager’s Video]
🍽️ Who We Are
[Company Name] is a vibrant [type of restaurant, e.g., modern bistro] located in [City, State]. We pride ourselves on exceptional hospitality and a team culture that feels like family.
🛠️ What You’ll Do
- Welcome and seat guests warmly and professionally
- Manage waitlists and communicate with servers
- Handle guest inquiries and reservations
- Keep the host station clean, organized, and inviting
🎯 Who You Are
- Friendly, confident, and calm under pressure
- Experienced in front-of-house roles (preferred but not required)
- A team player who loves working with people
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Tips shared among front-of-house staff
- Staff meals and discounts
- Flexible scheduling
- Opportunities for growth and training
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
Join a team that values your effort and helps you grow. Your work sets the tone for every guest’s experience.
📥 How to Apply
Apply via [WorkScreen Link] for a fair, skills-based evaluation. We can’t wait to meet you!
✅ Option 2: Structured Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Restaurant Hostess (Training Provided)
💼 Position: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
💵 Pay: $[Insert Salary Range] per hour + Tips
📍 Location: [City, State]
🎥 A Quick Word from Our Manager
Hear directly from our hiring manager about the role and team.
👉 [Insert Link to Hiring Manager’s Video]
🍽️ Who We Are
[Company Name] is a busy [type of restaurant] located in [City, State]. We believe in hiring great people and training them to succeed, even if they’re new to hospitality.
🛠️ Responsibilities
- Greet and seat guests courteously and promptly
- Manage waitlists and reservation systems
- Answer phone inquiries
- Support servers and management as needed
🎯 Requirements
- Friendly and outgoing personality
- Willingness to learn and grow
- Reliable availability for scheduled shifts
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Paid training and mentorship
- Tips and staff meals included
- Supportive work environment
📥 How to Apply
Complete a quick skills evaluation at [WorkScreen Link]. We look forward to having you on board!
Let WorkScreen.io Help You Hire Smarter and Faster
Writing a great job post is just the first step. The next? Finding and selecting the right candidates—without drowning in resumes or wasting hours on unqualified applicants.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in. Here’s how it can make your hiring easier and more effective:
- Quickly identify your top candidates.
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Administer one-click skill tests.
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applicants.
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
- Save time and reduce bias.
Streamline your hiring process with transparent, objective evaluations—giving you data-driven insights to make smarter decisions.
Ready to upgrade your hiring game?
Sign up today at WorkScreen.io and start building your dream team!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Restaurant Hostess
Look for a mix of soft skills and practical abilities, including:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to warmly greet guests and handle inquiries
- Strong organizational skills for managing waitlists and reservations efficiently
- Ability to stay calm and composed under pressure during busy service times
- A friendly, approachable demeanor that creates a positive first impression
- Basic tech skills to operate reservation systems like OpenTable or Resy
Teamwork and adaptability to collaborate well with servers, managers, and kitchen staff
The average hourly pay for a restaurant hostess in the U.S. typically ranges between $12 to $18 per hour, depending on:
- Location (urban areas tend to pay more)
- Experience level
- Type of restaurant (fine dining vs. casual)
- Tip-sharing policies
Including tips, the total compensation can be notably higher in busy, tip-friendly establishments.
While experience can be valuable—especially familiarity with reservation systems or high-volume environments—it’s not always a must-have. Many successful hostesses start entry-level and learn on the job. Attitude, reliability, and interpersonal skills often outweigh years of experience.
Consider asking:
- “Tell me about a time you handled a difficult or impatient guest.”
- “How do you prioritize tasks during a busy shift?”
- “What does excellent customer service mean to you?”
- “How do you stay organized when managing multiple tables or guests?”
These questions reveal problem-solving skills, communication style, and how they handle pressure.
