Compatibility - Gastro & Family

The catering industry is known for its flexible but often challenging working hours. Early shifts, late shifts, weekend work - it can be difficult to find time for your family. But with the right planning, support and a bit of organizational talent, you can balance your catering job and your private life.

Whether you already work in the industry or are thinking about entering the hotel or catering industry, we will show you how to successfully manage your work and family life, what working models are available and why catering jobs can be family-friendly despite shift work.

Not every hotel or catering job means a full week with flexible working hours. Many companies now offer family-friendly working models.

• Fixed working hoursideal if you need fixed times for childcare - many companies offer 4 or 5-day weeks that make it easier to organize childcare.
• Job sharing: Two employees share a full-time position and work alternately - this guarantees maximum security and predictability.
• Daytime catering: Cafés, bistros or canteens often have regular working hours without late shifts - ideal for balancing family and job.
• Seasonal workideal if, for example, you want to work more in summer and have more time for your family in winter.

Tip: Talk openly with your employer about your needs and your current family situation. Family-friendly solutions are possible in many hotels!

How do you manage to spend enough time with your family despite irregular working hours?

• Good planning is everything: use a family calendar to coordinate shifts, school times and joint activities.
• Quality time instead of quantity: If you have less time, use it consciously. Shared meals or small rituals such as a bedtime story strengthen the bond.
• Get support: Family, friends or a reliable childcare network can help to cushion bottlenecks.
• Adjust working hours: If possible, work in an area with more family-friendly shifts, e.g. breakfast service instead of evening business; daytime catering instead of bar service.

Do you want to start your own business as a hotelier or restaurateur? Why not! Many run a family business - from a small guesthouse to an upscale restaurant. Children grow into the industry, help out and experience the special atmosphere.

• Implement your own ideas: Independent restaurateurs can design their business in such a way that it is family-friendly.
• Working with a partner or family: Joint working hours can be better coordinated.
• Flexibility with childcare: Children can often be present, especially in family-run businesses.

So if you are thinking about becoming self-employed, a hotel or restaurant business can also be an opportunity to combine work and family life more closely.

Whether it's flexible working hours, regular shifts or jobs in daytime catering - there are many ways to balance work and family life. Whether service, reception, kitchen or housekeeping: take a look at current vacancies from our top employers and find the right catering job for you!