Meet Melanie Mazo Faderagao, head waitress at Time Oak Hotel & Suites, Dubai
Describe your first ever role in the hotel industry? I started in the hospitality industry as a waitress at Time Oak Hotel & Suites. It was always my passion to join this industry and after joining Time, each day passed without me realising that I was working. Being in a dynamic city like Dubai helped me to meet a whole range of people from many different cultures. This job has always made me smile and taught me to enhance my skills and talents.
Who has inspired you most in your career? My restaurant manager Peejay; he is always a great pillar of support to everyone. I was inspired by his commitment and his passion for this industry. He takes the time to listen to guest and staff feedback. He has taught us about putting people first, embracing change wholeheartedly and pursuing excellence.
How do you view the hotel landscape in the region? With more and more hotels opening up, the competition is very stiff. Each hotel has different USPs, but we have an excellent opportunity to stand out from other hotels by delivering personal and exemplary service to our guests that will leave a long and lasting impression.
What is the biggest challenge of your role? Of course, we have all the physical challenges of sore feet, back pain, handling different shifts etc. However, apart from all these, the greatest challenge I’ve experienced is when I cannot answer the demands of guests due to other circumstances.
What is the best aspect of your role? Being around people. You hear so many interesting stories, interacting and laughing. There is always something interesting happening if you’re around people. Every day is different. Apart from that, the support my company gives me is so great. We say that your family is irreplaceable, however, Time has been a home away from home for me all these years and I really enjoy working here.
If you could work in any hotel in the world, which would it be? I have not thought of any other hotels other than Time. However, I would love to try my luck in the aviation industry. As I am in the customer service industry, I just have to learn the challenging technicalities, which I will surely enjoy. This may also be because I love travelling and exploring other cultures.
What tip would you share with new staff starting out in the industry in the region? Only true passion will help you to survive in the industry. Here you have to learn every day, teach every day, and go the extra mile every day. However, if you have the willingness, nothing can stop you.
Experience:
November 2015 – Till Date: Head Waitress, Time Oak Hotel & Suites, Dubai
April 2014 – October 2015: Captain, Time Oak Hotel & Suites, Dubai
Oct 2011 – March 2014 : Waitress, Time Oak Hotel & Suites, Dubai
