Host - The National

Why Work at The National?

A career at The National, Autograph Collection means working at one of the most breathtaking luxury hotels in Oklahoma City. Located in the historic First National Center, this stunning hotel features 146 guest rooms, the award-winning Tellers Italian restaurant, and The Great Hall, an iconic social and event space. Employees at The National take pride in delivering refined hospitality in an awe-inspiring setting, where history meets modern elegance.

What You’ll Do

• Greet every guest warmly and professionally with genuine eye contact, a smile, and prompt attention.
• Manage reservations, the waitlist, and seating chart to create a smooth and organized guest experience.
• Escort guests to their tables, provide menus, and introduce them to their server.
• Learn the restaurant's menu, including ingredients, preparation methods, unavailable items, and daily offerings.
• Get to know frequent guests and remember their names, preferences, and special requests.
• Manage seating rotations to maintain an efficient and balanced flow throughout the dining room.
• Understand server stations, assignments, workload capacity, and timing to help create an efficient service experience.
• Communicate guest preferences and special requests clearly to Servers and Managers.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and guest-ready Host Stand throughout the shift.
• Ensure someone is always available at the Host Stand to welcome and assist guests.
• Operate the cash register and accurately follow cash-handling and accounting procedures when assigned.
• Support your fellow Curators and maintain positive communication and teamwork throughout every shift.

Qualifications

• You genuinely enjoy meeting people and creating positive first impressions.
• You understand that the Host is often the first and last point of contact for restaurant guests.
• You are friendly, engaging, and comfortable interacting with guests in a high-energy environment.
• You can remain calm, organized, and professional when the restaurant is busy or seating delays occur.
• You are able to balance multiple priorities, including reservations, walk-ins, guest requests, phone calls, seating rotations, and team communication.
• You have strong attention to detail and can quickly absorb information about menus, service procedures, dining room layouts, and guest preferences.
• You communicate clearly and professionally with guests, Servers, Managers, and other Curators.
• You are comfortable handling guest concerns and know when to involve the Restaurant Manager on Duty.
• You take pride in maintaining a polished appearance and understand that your actions and communication are always visible to guests.
• You are dependable and committed to excellent attendance and punctuality.
• You are willing to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• You bring a genuine desire to help create memorable dining experiences for every guest.

Education & Experience

• Previous restaurant or customer service experience required.
• Previous Host or Server experience preferred.
• High school diploma or GED preferred, or currently enrolled in secondary education.
• Must successfully complete the restaurant's required training program.
• Must be at least 16 years old, or 21 years old if required to serve alcoholic beverages.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate fluently in English.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Basic knowledge of restaurant menus, ingredients, cooking techniques, sanitation, and service procedures.
• Ability to learn and communicate knowledge of the restaurant, property, upcoming events, and dining offerings.
• Familiarity with computer systems, reservation platforms, and ordering procedures preferred.
• Ability to successfully multitask and prioritize responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work all shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on business needs.
• Must maintain a polished, professional appearance and follow all grooming and dress standards.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk throughout an eight-hour shift.
• Ability to reach with hands and arms as needed throughout the shift.
• Ability to regularly communicate with guests and coworkers in person and by telephone.
• Ability to handle and operate objects, tools, computer systems, and other necessary equipment.
• Ability to lift, balance, and carry dining room service trays safely.
• Ability to lift and carry trays, soiled dish bins, and other items weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced restaurant environment with frequent guest interaction and changing priorities.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and composure during busy service periods.
• Must wear closed-toe, non-canvas, non-skid-soled shoes while working.

Core Values

We are dedicated to curating unmatched moments for our guests. We value our team members who embody these core values:

• Passion for creating memorable dining experiences.
• Commitment to exceptional service and hospitality.
• Resilience and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaboration and teamwork to achieve common goals.
• Continuous learning and growth to enhance our skills and knowledge.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Employment with the Company is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the Company at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.