What's needed to be a great caterer

"I don't like food that's too carefully arranged; it makes me think that the chef is spending too much time arranging and not enough time cooking. If I wanted a picture, I'd buy a painting." is a famous quote from the late Andy Rooney.

The truth is chefs prepare some delicious meals and someone must deliver them to those who can't come to the restaurant to eat them or want them for parties. That means a caterer.


Which are the skills required to be a good caterer?


You must start out being a quality fanatic, you must have communication skills, you need to be able to move perishable items effectively, you have to be a master planner, and you have skills as an entrepreneur.


Catering means you know the food business. You have to have the skills of a master chef so you can prepare those special items most people want at their parties or other get togethers. This job cannot be done just by any cook. Skill, dedication and most of all practice are required to be a master chef.


Catering means you have to have people skills. You will be dealing with a variety of customers who have differing needs. For this, you have to be fully aware of their needs including their preferences of food and delivery. You should also be prepared to meet any challenges and problems and solve them on the spot. While doing all these services you should not forget to wear a smile always.

Since a lot of food can spoil, good logistics can save you a lot of headaches and money. Many people get good at this with practice. It also helps to have the right equipment.


Being a master planner is important requirement of a caterer. You will have several orders at a time and these are time sensitive. Not only is timing essential in comedy, it is required for any caterer. These days it means computer programs and staff to assist you. For this you may have to learn computers of employ somebody to manage delivery.


Catering means you have to think on your feet. Its not unusual for a perspective client to ask you about candy buffet ideas on the spot for their gathering. Coming up with the right answer will get you the job.


Wanting to own a small business is a per-requisite for any catering business. Technology moves fast. You may need to improvise with changing times. Always remember to be cost effective. You may also keep abreast with the changing needs and requirements. With thew right skills it is very possible to write your ticket and have fun creating food that you can be proud of.