Ask me a question!
What were the main 'career decision' milestones in your life so far?
As a second level student I always had a keen interest in sports.
I am a 2nd Degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and assisst in teaching over 60 students 3 times per week . I always knew I would like to pursue a career in the fitness industry. I went on to study Sports Therapy and I am currently planning on pursuing a degree in Wolverhampton Uni. McDonald's aided my studies by awarding two €1500 scholarships to me.
Who are the people who most influenced your career direction?
My parents would have influenced me the most. They always stood by any decision I made and always told me to apply for a job down in the local McDonald's as they are very understanding when it comes to work and study.
They also allow you to expand knowlegde and skill as they offer very enjoyable management courses to staff always allowing you to grow in their business.
How did you go about getting your current job?
I applied for my job in McDonald's by filling out an application form and leaving a C.V. The process was quite easy I was called for an interview a couple of weeks later and got the job. There aren't too many difficult questions in the interview process. Following this there is a food saftey test and some forms to sign regarding what your job entails.
Describe a typical day?
My day in McDonald's is usually an 8-9 hour shift. When I arrive I greet everyone in work, ask how the day is going and walk the store with the present shift manager so I can approve that everything is ok for my shift take over.
I check my targets for each hour and give all staff objectives needed to be carried out for the rest of my shift. McDonald's is a high volume fast food establishment so it requires patience and speed, as pressure can become quite high, especially if a complaint arises.
What are the main tasks and responsibilities?
What are the main challenges?
It can be challenging when a high volume of customers arrive and we havn't planned for it and might not have the appropriate number of staff scheduled .
This can cause serious pressure to the shift if people can't get their break on time or staff are waiting to go home.
As McDonald's is a fast food restaurant we cannot plan for a bus load of people just turning up at the front door so it can cause a lot of pressure.
What do you like most?
McDonald's offers a range of upskilling courses and chances of promotion. The flexible hours and competitive rates of pay appeal to me, however as it is also an active job it keeps me alert and thinking.
I also like meeting all the different people that I work with and learning about new cultures everyday. The team environment is a great part of the job as we all must cooperate with each other to get things done.
Is there anything that isn't great?
What particular skills do you bring to your workplace?
My personality is outgoing, friendly and understanding. I don't put a lot of pressure on people as I think of how they feel before I react to a situation.
I always put a smile on their face making their day a little better which in turn helps them work more efficiently and we all work together to reach our targets.
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
In school I studied the basic subjects, English, Irish, Maths. I also took French Physics and Biology. These subjects stood to me in my course choice as Biology is essential in understanding how the body works when undertaking a fitness course. As we have come into difficult times recently people have zipped up their pockets and are not renewing their gym memberships, therefore leaving me struggling to obtain a job in this industry. If I could change anything I would have opted for a trade in carpentry or an electrician.
What is your education to date?
What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?
What have been the most rewarding events in your career so far?
What personal qualities do you have that helps you in your career?
What is your dream job?
Does your job allow you to have a lifestyle you are happy with?
What advice would you give to someone considering this job?
The initial couple of days can be tough as you are in training and it can make people rethink about working here, but I would have to say persevere, as there are rewards at the end of the tunnel.
McDonald's put their people first and never leave them doing the same job all the time. To work in McDonald's you requires patience, a good personality with a willingness to learn something new everyday.
Showing an interest in other peoples interests would help as you have to work as a team so interpersonal skills are ESSENTIAL!!
What are the three most important personal characteristics required for the job?
Have you undertaken, or do you plan to undertake any further training as part of your job?
- Career Development?
- Current Job?
- Education and Training?
- Personal Qualities?
- Advice for Others?