where are you in five years?
create a network; develop yourself
There are so many ways that the Appetite for Excellence program supports emerging culinary talent - the most prevalent of which is developing the individuals who apply, so that they exit this program with a newfound confidence, career focus and a support network. The application process in itself is the first step: where the applicants think about what they do want out of their careers by documenting their skills and experience, goals and inspirations, in a format they may never have done before. Self-assessment leads to determining their career goals and what they would like to achieve.
This first step is followed by opportunities for self-development by way of social activities where finalists can interact with other like-minded professionals, share ideas and discuss their objectives or different management styles. For some industry professionals, this is the first time that they network on a professional level. It is also where they begin to understand the importance of developing career relationships outside of their own environment that continues to strengthen in time forming some great friendships.
Another area that we assist develop is in the media arena. Finalists can often experience media attention during their involvement in the program that can also be on going. We support each of them through this phase as it's important that they're trained to conduct interviews and appearances professionally and representative of their employer, the Appetite for Excellence program and themselves. Take for example our past finalists Massimo Mele or Adam D'Sylva, who are both influential chefs, making public appearances on an international scale, and maintaining a professional representation of themselves. By giving our finalists media training during their time with us, they gain some tools to begin understanding the media and their presence in it.
In addition to providing assistance in the development of our finalists' interpersonal skills and professionalism, we provide finalists and all program applicants with upskilling - gaining knowledge on produce, food and wine matching, and overall, confidence in themselves. This all leads to benefiting both the applicant, their employer and their future
Take Louise' advice - you've got nothing to lose!
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