“A number of years ago I was sending resumes around, I was having trouble with the interpersonal things, having trouble with not having enough experience and not being good at fundamental small things like eye contact, attentiveness – just neurodiversity related things, really,” he says. “I think it’s a big milestone [reaching 10 years] for any hospitality business, but especially for an organisation like ours.” - Emily Briffa “Just getting the practice and having a space to be able to learn to develop those skills that come more naturally to some people, come less naturally to others, without an expectation of being able to do it professionally first try [is what separates Hamlet]. “It can sound a bit silly saying it out loud, but it’s just practice at the small things.” That practice environment is one of Hamlet’s greatest strengths. Hospitality can be fast paced
and unpredictable at times, balancing customer interaction, teamwork, timing, communication and consistency all at once. For many participants, simply having the opportunity to gradually build those skills in a supportive environment can make all the difference. Michael admits it was intimidating in the beginning. “Yes, it was scary at first, because you’re walking up to a table, you’re talking to people you’ve never met before,” he says. “You’re having to keep track of things you’re not used to keeping track of. You’re having to develop consistency you’re not used to start out with, but it’s very good to do it slowly, in a safe environment.” After honing his skills and building his confidence at Hamlet, Michael secured employment at MACq 01 Hotel more than two years ago, showcasing a journey that highlights exactly what Hamlet hopes to achieve through its programs. “Now it’s extremely easy, it’s like second nature, because now I’ve worked at MACq 01 for over two years, I’ve got a significant amount of experience behind me,” he says. “Whenever I have to do something I have to do, I know how to do it, I’ve
19 Tasmanian Hospitality Review June/July Edition
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