Former General Manager of Apicii Hospitality

The pandemic reminded me why I love this industry and my job so much. As we got on a tough road, I saw everything being stripped down to the essentials. The customers now could just appreciate our artistry. The rebuilding of a restaurant allows you to reintroduce yourself to your genetic makeup. I had the time and was able to see every guest and be thankful for their visit. I was able to see every team member and witness the boundaries that we pushed to keep our doors open and I felt inspired. I go to work every day inspired to push and see what grows from that will and determination.

I couldn't do my job without my team that comes to work day after day ready for the next set of challenges, and my network of support.

Be honest – there is such a feeling of success when you can be honest with those around you. When you have high integrity coupled with a can-do attitude, your team will know where your intentions lie. Being able to honestly communicate when you need help or when you do not know something breeds trust from your team. It allows teamwork without boundaries when communication can happen effortlessly and with no fear. Also, be honest with your clients. Our diners are sophisticated and well-versed when it comes to dining experiences. If you or your team have blundered, acknowledge the error and ask for the guest's advice on how to regain their trust. Including them in the recovery process is monumental. There is no need for the Wizard of Oz curtain. This is the best opportunity to meet and learn about your client. If their food is going to take a while to be remade, tell them and ask if you can bring something for them to enjoy while they wait.

Be consistent – Your team needs you at your best every day. Believe me, I know life happens and the world keeps ticking. The trust you will feel from your team when they know they can count on you is something words can't even translate for me.

Be vigilant – "being busy" is the best problem to have. Do not rest on the laurels of challenge. If you have a bad day or bad shift, leave those feelings in the past. Find comfort in honestly assessing where you and your team could improve. Find strength in having the difficult conversations about where the team can grow. You will find that pushing those boundaries can only improve your environment. Remove the shame behind mistakes and lack of knowledge from your space and replace it with tenacity and a thirst for knowledge.

My internship at Disney University has had a tremendous impact on my career. This internship was hard, and to be honest, the crucial skills for success that I needed were not developed yet at that point in my life. I had to learn the hard lessons of consistency and execution through trial and error. In fact, the three lessons I listed earlier (be honest, be consistent, and be vigilant) were all introduced to me here.