Learning at Work: Jade-Lee’s Journey to Balmer Lawn Hotel

Jade-Lee, our wonderful senior receptionist and reservationist, has offered insight into her daily life at Balmer Lawn as we approach Learning at Work Week.

Keep reading to meet Jade and learn all about her experience at Balmer Lawn so far:

Tell Us About Yourself: What’s Your Job Title and How Long Have You Worked at Balmer Lawn?

“My name is Jade-Lee and I’m a senior receptionist and reservationist at Balmer Lawn where I’ve worked since January 2020.”

What’s the Best Part of Your Job?

“Meeting clients is one of the best parts of my job, closely followed by interacting with everyone I work with. With our brilliant team, we work together to create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for everyone who comes to visit.”

About Your Role: What Does Your Day-to-Day Look Like at Balmer Lawn?

“During my working day, I help ensure reception runs smoothly, as well as training and supporting my fellow team members. At Balmer Lawn, no two days are the same; we have our checks that must be done and met each day, but as we work in such a multi-tasking environment, we have to be adaptable with our schedules, which is a skill I perfected while learning at work.”

Can You Briefly Describe Your Journey Through the Hospitality Industry?

“I made the decision to kick-start my career in hospitality while I was studying hospitality and catering at college. I started on the hospitality career ladder by first working as a waitress and a chambermaid before working at a Premier Inn amongst other hotels in many departments. Throughout my experience, I was drawn to the diversity of a receptionist position, making it my end goal.”

What Initially Attracted You to the Hospitality Industry?

“As a people person, I specifically wanted to work in an industry that allowed me to talk to people everyday, so when other career paths didn’t suit my chatty personality, I was encouraged to have a go at hospitality, and I’m very glad I did.”

Why Did You Decide to Pursue Your Career in Hospitality?

“Hospitality is a sector that will always be thriving in both the UK and abroad. With its array of opportunities for learning at work and a network of truly lovely staff, working in hospitality is something that suits my personality perfectly and I'm excited to see where it takes me.”

Tell Us About Your Qualifications: What Did You Need to Achieve for This Career? Was There Any Additional Training?

“While I was at college studying hospitality and catering, I was able to receive a BTEC national diploma level 3, as well as a level 2 diploma in professional food and beverage service. In the future, I am hoping to get my level 4 apprenticeship in hospitality management while learning at work.”

Why Did You Choose Balmer Lawn?

“From the second I walked through the doors at Balmer Lawn, I instantly felt at home and that it was the right place for me to be. The support of the management and staff here is second-to-none, teaching us how to adapt and overcome the difficulties and challenges of the past couple of years.”

Is There Anything You’re Looking Forward to for the Coming Years?

“Starting the apprenticeship and having the chance to learn while working is an exciting upcoming event for me, as well as seeing what I’m able to achieve since I am still new to my job role.”

What Advice Would You Give to Someone Considering a Career in Hospitality?

“Choosing a career in hospitality is so challenging, but incredibly rewarding, with opportunities to grow everyday from the new experiences you’ll face. To have a career in hospitality, you need to be all in, as well as having a plan of what you plan to learn from the job. If you have the dedication, it will be some of the best years of your life.”

At Balmer Lawn, we value each and every one of our staff, encouraging them to grow with opportunities of learning at work and strong levels of communication to help us thrive as a strong and happy team. 

If you’re interested in starting your own Balmer Lawn story, contact us to see our current vacancies. 

Alternatively, take a look at our previous blog to discover The Best Ways to Have Fun With Your Children in The New Forest.