As a recent graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran College with a degree in Business and Communications, my resume is in the process of being built. A majority of my work experience has been in a restaurant. From washing dishes and making pizzas to pouring fancy wines and serving intricate chef’s tastings, I’ve certainly had my fair share of hospitality experience over the past six years. As I make my transition into a professional career (finishing up week four) it is clear to me how closely the world of hospitality fits in with the world of public relations. That being said, It all starts with the first impression.

One NFL Sunday, some friends and I decided to go out for dinner. We decided to sit in the bar to watch the game and the host informed us to grab any table we’d like and a server would arrive shortly. With eyes fixed on the big screen, five minutes flew by with still no greeting from the waitstaff. Our internal alarms were buzzing, but we were entertained by the game. After a delayed arrival to our table, our server asks us, “What can I get you?” one of the cardinal sins in hospitality, especially when we didn’t even have menus or waters on the table yet.

First impressions matter, not only in a restaurant but especially in the professional world. This principle has been instilled in my mind ever since my first restaurant job at Pizza Hut. How you present yourself to a client or a customer sets the tone for the conversations to come. A strong handshake and genuine smile doesn’t only sell entrees and drinks but can build a trusting relationship with a client.

From my experience, first impressions are also important in the realm of social media. Past employers have Googled my name or read my previous tweets. When I set up my mother’s Facebook account a couple years ago, I told her she wasn’t allowed to judge what she saw. Now, whenever I post an update, I think about what she will say when she reads it. If I think it will make her blush…it’s probably not appropriate. Having this in the back of my mind has been a great benefit. (Thanks Mom!) Learning that filter can go a long way in establishing a professional social media presence, which can only lead to more positive things.

Has anyone learned this lesson the hard way?
My background is food service. How does PR translate to other industries?