Just bee yourself

Working at a place like H, there's a very certain.... "look", "style", and "feel" they are going for in their service and food. For example, we're never allowed to say "specials" or "drinks". Rather, they are "noteworthy additions to our menu" and "beverages." We count how many sugar packets go into our sugar domes, and we don't offer coin change with the bill. When picking up the telephone (with never more than two rings), you smile while you answer, and it's always "please hold." Never "hold on a second."

With so many guidlines and what seems like memorizing a script of thoughtfully-concocted phrases we all use, (which comes naturally for the staff, since a majority of them are professional actors/performers), it's been a little tough for me to "come into character", if you will. I find myself having to repeat these phrases to myself over and over in order to ingrain them into my second nature.

At the end of the day, though, I feel that it's not the robotic acts or words that will "wow" the guest. Rather, it's a real connection, and I think I need to remind myself to just...be myself. As much as I DO need to act professionally and treat the guests in a H-way, I still need to let Nancy come through and let the innate hospitality that I know is within me guide my conversations with the guests. With that comfort comes confidence, and with confidence comes influence.

So yes. "Just beeeee yourself."