Job PRE(ur)TEnS

Every industry has to contend with its own stereotypes. The hospitality and restaurant industry is no exception. In fact, there are some negative perceptions that prevent many people from seriously considering this industry as an employer. However, what is often overlooked is that, upon closer inspection, these very aspects can actually be seen as advantages:

Benefit: Flexible working hours | © Die Sterne im Sauerland – Hotel Diedrich – sabrinity

Unfavorable working hours

Yes, we work at times when others are usually off: on weekends, in the evenings, and on holidays.

However, it is also true that

Of course, we also have time off on weekends, in the evenings, and on holidays.
At "Sterne im Sauerland," working hours are tracked digitally, ensuring complete transparency. Any overtime is fairly compensated.
There’s hardly any other industry where such flexible working hours are possible: Do you need to run errands for the government or go to a doctor’s appointment? No problem! You simply take that day off as part of your regular schedule and don’t have to use a vacation day for it, unlike in other industries. Are you a single parent who can only work mornings, afternoons, or evenings? That’s no problem either—we offer a wide variety of (part-time) work schedules. After all, we’re here for our guests from early in the morning until late at night.
During the week, many attractions are less crowded, and shopping is much more relaxed. Sometimes admission fees are even cheaper during the week than on the weekend.
"Night owls" can choose to be scheduled for late shifts, while early risers can start their morning shifts feeling refreshed.

True friendship isn't affected by work hours | © pexels-helena-lopes

“I won’t be able to see my friends and family anymore”

Yes, our work hours may differ from those of the people who are important to us.

However, it is also true that

We always try to accommodate your requests: If you have an important appointment coming up, we’ll take that into account.
you can always meet up with friends after work; and if you plan your shift wisely, you can even sleep in the next morning.
True friendship doesn't depend on work hours!

Monetary Benefits | © The Stars of the Sauerland – Waldhaus Ohlenbach – sabrinity

Low pay

Yes, the hotel and restaurant industry is part of the service sector, which overall has a lower salary structure than the manufacturing sector.

However, it is also true that

In North Rhine-Westphalia, wages will rise significantly as of May 1, 2023, and the starting salary after completion of the apprenticeship will then be approximately €2,450. Apprentices receive €1,100 per month in their first year, €1,200 in their second year, and €1,300 in their third year.
pay their staff in the Sauerland region at least the standard rate. Any overtime is accurately tracked and paid out or compensated with time off.
There are numerous monetary benefits that offer advantages.
allow employees of "Die Sterne" to take vacations at very affordable prices at approximately 600 2- to 5-star establishments in Germany.
While tips—which guests give as a token of appreciation for great service—aren't guaranteed, they can be a nice little extra.

Career and Success Without a College Degree | © pexels-tom-balabaud

“The only way I can amount to anything is by going to college”

Yes, in many fields, a college degree is required to secure a position of responsibility or to start your own business.

Not so in the hotel and restaurant industry!

If you’re truly passionate about it and stay motivated, you can quickly open your own business here—whether it’s a food truck, a trendy restaurant, or a unique lodging for guests. The sky’s the limit when it comes to creativity. With a traditional dual vocational training program, hands-on experience, and supplementary courses or a specialized degree, you’ll be well-prepared for self-employment.

Plus: You earn your own money from day one and won't have to repay any student loans or other financial aid later on.

Travel will certainly continue in the future! | © The Stars of the Sauerland – Waldhaus Ohlenbach – sabrinity

An unstable industry

Yes, our industry was hit extremely hard by the lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic. The government imposed the mandatory closures and made decisions about any potential easing of restrictions on very short notice.

It is also true, however, that the vacation business is booming again now that businesses have reopened.

This confirms that our industry has a future, because people will always travel! We are an integral part of people’s lives and contribute to their quality of life. And our guests won’t want to do without that in the future either! Vacations are meant for relaxation, so that people can recharge and be ready to face everyday life again. Short trips within one’s own country, especially to quiet, “green” areas, are in high demand. The Sauerland region, with its hospitality businesses, is thus one of the most popular vacation destinations in North Rhine-Westphalia.

The hospitality industry embodies integration in action | © The Stars of the Sauerland – Hotel Diedrich – sabrinity

Integration & Teamwork

Our industry is a living example of integration: our facilities employ colleagues from Spain, Indonesia, Syria, Portugal, and many other countries. This cultural exchange fosters general knowledge and mutual respect.

Living and working where others go on vacation

The Sauerland is a region where people go on vacation. Travelers love the wide-open spaces, the natural beauty, the fresh air, and the friendly locals. Visitors leave behind the hustle and bustle and anonymity of the city to take a deep breath, find peace and quiet, and be looked after by wonderful hosts.

So why not treat yourself to the luxury of living and working right in a vacation setting? The Sauerland offers plenty of recreational opportunities, many of which are free. Outdoor activities like cycling and running are available everywhere and at any time, and the many great trails are just waiting to be explored.

Practical expertise and an understanding of human nature

Invite family and friends over and treat them: Everything you learn during your training and later in your professional life can be put to excellent use in your personal life. For example, you can apply the workflows you learn on the job to organizing your own household.

Who has expertise in beverages like wine, cocktails, or spirits, as well as regional and exotic foods, and knows how to prepare them? A perfectly planned party becomes even more memorable as a result. Your guests will be delighted.

And by interacting with so many different people and nationalities every day, you gain a lot of insight into human nature, which helps you stay calm in any situation, even in your personal life.