High School

Educational requirements vary by restaurant. Some restaurants hire individuals who are still in high school for this position. Others require or prefer their hosts or hostesses to have a minimum of a high school diploma. Classes in math will help you hone skills when taking cash when people pay their bills. Speech classes will help you to communicate effectively with coworkers and customers. Other useful classes include business, foreign language, computer science, and psychology. Joining school clubs or participating in group activities will help you to build your teamwork skills.

Other Education or Training

Most restaurants and other establishments provide on-the-job training to help employees learn restaurant policies and procedures as well as customer service. Some establishments offer formal orientation and training programs, self-study programs, online programs, and audiovisual presentation or instructional booklets. In other cases, on-the-job training will be an informal process.

Certification or Licensing

There are no certification or licensing requrirements for hosts or hostesses.

Other Requirements

States may require individuals working in establishments that serve alcohol to meet the state's minimum drinking age.

Experience requirements vary for hosts and hostesses depending on the specific job. In some situations, this is an entry-level position. Experience is gained on the job. In others, establishments prefer applicants who have prior experience hosting at other restaurants.

Communications skills are essential in this job. Hosts and hostesses need to be articulate individuals who enjoy being around people. The ability to speak easily to others is a plus. Customer service skills are mandatory. The food service industry is very competitive. Restaurants and other food service establishments rely on workers with strong customer services to help them to create a friendly, service-oriented atmosphere. Hosts and hostesses need to be courteous and willing to attend to customers' requests with a smile.

Organizational skills are necessary for handling reservations and knowing which tables are available. Math skills will come in handy when accepting payments from customers.

Physical stamina is necessary because hosts and hostesses are on their feet most of their shifts.