New year, new job? Here are our top tips for your job hunt
There’s no better time than the start of the year to mix things up, and that applies to your career too. Starting afresh, you can throw yourself into the course you’ve always wanted to start, go for the promotion you’ve had your sights set on, or make the ultimate career move – find a new job!
In a new role, you’ll get to meet new faces, discover if there’s something better suited to you, and find out what you’re really capable of. Sound good? We thought so.
Searching for a job doesn’t have to be as stressful as it’s often made out to be. Actually, it can be a fun process, as long as you know what you’re looking for. Our top tips will help you figure out what that is and make sure you start your job hunt feeling confident.
Don’t be afraid to put yourself outside your comfort zone
Do you see a role and think the responsibilities are a major step up from what you’re doing in your current role? Well, have no fear. That’s exactly what you should be looking for on a job hunt. You could be among the 74% of people who believe they’re not reaching their full potential, and a challenge is exactly what you need.
Maybe you see an administrator role that lists a programme you’ve not used before, or an assistant management role that will often leave you in charge when the general manager is away. Stepping into the unknown can be a scary thought. But what better time to push yourself than at the start of the year!
Look for learning and development opportunities
As we tick over into the new year, many of us will take the time to find new experiences that will boost our skillset and help us craft a stand-out CV. A top tip from us is to search for companies that offer award-winning training programmes. Not only will you pick up skills that you’ll use throughout the rest of your career, but you’ll also be getting paid while you learn.
Fancy an apprenticeship ? Look for award-winning schemes that will give you the confidence to grow your career.
Think about a move to the hospitality industry
So, you’re looking for something a little different. You’ve been in the same industry for some time now, and what you really need is a change of pace. We’ve all been there.
Your next chapter could be within reaching distance. All you need to do is list your top skills and think about what other industries you’d be a good match for. For example, you might work in a customer-facing role in the automotive industry. This will mean you’ve got strong communication skills and you’re a top-notch listener – both skills you can transfer to the hospitality industry.
Find a culture that works for you
While it’s true that you need to pitch yourself and show a company why you’d make a great addition to the team, you also must question if they’re the right company for you. When working this out, it all boils down to a few key things, such as company values, career progression opportunities, benefits, and the passion of the team. All of these make up the company culture, which 85% of employees think matters more than pay.
Take your next career leap with Mitchells & Butlers
Now you know exactly what you need to do to start off the right foot, it’s time to take your next career leap. We’ve been serving with #PRIDE, since 1898. During this time, we’ve grown to a 13-brand company, with over 1,600 businesses scattered across the UK, meaning the career opportunities at M&B are endless. But it’s not just about work. We’re all about working hard and having fun while we do it.
If M&B sounds like the place for you, explore our bar and waiting jobs, management roles or kitchen careers. We can't wait to hear from you!
Receive articles like this
Enter your email address and you will be registered to receive the latest content and insights produced by Company name, direct to your inbox. If you have selected a category or content type you will receive the latest insights from that area.
By clicking submit you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy.
See what we’re all about
We're shaping a workplace where everyone thrives. Explore the heart and soul of Mitchells & Butlers by checking out our guiding principles.
Our valuesOur Stories
Teaser
Career AdviceContent Type
BlogPublish date
02/06/2026
Summary
Preparing for a Head Chef interview can feel a bit like a Saturday night service, fast-paced, high-pressure, and full of moments where you need to bring your A-game. The good news? Most Head Che
by
Rachel Weaver
Teaser
Career AdviceContent Type
BlogPublish date
02/06/2026
Summary
A great Head Chef CV doesn’t just list kitchens you’ve worked in, it tells the story of how you lead teams, deliver standout food, run a commercially strong operation, and keep guests coming back
by
Daria Dysarz
Teaser
Diversity and InclusionContent Type
BlogPublish date
02/03/2026
Summary
Ever wondered how a kitchen career can really take off? We caught up with James Chilongo, who started as a Chef back in 2007 and is now a Kitchen Investment Trainer at M&B. From working acro
by
Laura Kelly
Teaser
Career DevelopmentContent Type
BlogPublish date
02/02/2026
Summary
Think a chef job means staying in the kitchen forever? Think again. At M&B, your kitchen career could take you from cooking behind the scenes to leading an entire district. Just ask Anthony, who st
by
Sophie Dawson
Teaser
Career DevelopmentContent Type
BlogPublish date
01/30/2026
Summary
Not every career starts with a master plan. Sometimes, it starts with a part-time job, a great team, and a moment where you think… this actually feels right. That’s exactly how Lauren’s hospital
by
Sophie Russell
Teaser
Our CultureContent Type
BlogPublish date
01/30/2026
Summary
Many people think of a job in hospitality as a short-term gig, something to earn a bit of cash around other commitments. And sure, that’s true! But a career in hospitality is so much more than tha
by
Rachel Weaver
Teaser
Career DevelopmentContent Type
BlogPublish date
01/19/2026
Summary
At M&B, hospitality management means running venues, leading teams, and keeping everything on track while making sure guests leave happy. There’s a range of roles to suit different lifestyles a
by
Sue Bayley
Teaser
Our BrandsContent Type
BlogPublish date
01/16/2026
Summary
Step inside Ego and you’ll instantly feel it, the warm glow of Mediterranean hospitality, the relaxed buzz of people coming together over great food, and the unmistakable charm that turns every v
by
Becca Houseago
Teaser
Our CultureContent Type
BlogPublish date
01/16/2026
Summary
Being a Head Chef at M&B is about running a high-energy, fast-paced environment where every decision shapes not only the dining experience for your guests, but also your team. We give you real
by
Sophie Dawson