One of Us :: Mike Arbabi
IC(Iranian-Caterers): How long have you worked in the catering industry?
Mike(Mike Arbabi): I have worked in the catering industry for 25 years.
IC: What skills do you need to have to be a manager in catering?
Mike: These are the skills you need to be a manager in catering: Professional, Knowledge of cooking,Adaptable, Ability to manage and train staff, Good listener, Ability to communicate with clients, staff and boss,To be a leader and lead by example, Knowledge of all legislation (i.e., food safety, health safety, laws, Awareness of cost of food, Ability to manage profit.
IC: What skills do you need to have to be an employee in catering?
Mike: These are the skills you need to have to be a catering employee: Knowledge of all relevant Legislation (e.g. food safety etc),Reliable ,Willingness to learn, Flexible, Certified and experienced with cooking, Professional
IC: What would do think would be the first thing you would do when starting your own catering business? And what would follow on from this?
Mike: These are the steps I would carry out when starting my own catering business:
The first thing you must consider is the amount of capital that you have to invest in your business.
Then you must carry out Market Research either by yourself or by marketing professionals. This will allow you to assess your competitors and the catering industry.
Create Business Plan for bank
Create Competitive Strategy
Location would be the next factor to consider
Contact Environmental Health Advice and then register with them
Talk to suppliers for discounted rates
Contact businesses and offer to provide catering