The Market Hotel

My name is Lena Mulder, I am 19 years old and I currently work as a first employee of the service department in café Willem Albert (The Market hotel Groningen). In my spare time, I also like to enjoy the hospitality industry, but as a guest. I like to try new things in Groningen or enjoy a special beer somewhere on a nice terrace or in a cozy pub.

About three and a half years ago I started my career at The Market hotel with an internship from the hotel school. I then did an operational internship in the restaurant and kitchen, then I stuck around. So, I started as an intern when I was 16 years old, then I had a side job as a runner in the restaurant for a long time, and now I have been working full-time as the first employee in the service department since April.

My days are all different. I work irregular shifts, but each shift starts with checking the email, the schedule and any events. Also, of course, I change into my work clothes. In the evening, I always eat with the staff dinner and then I start working in the restaurant. I find it important to start my shift by greeting everyone. Personal contact is very important to me and I want my colleagues to feel comfortable with me as their leader. As far as I am concerned, this definitely starts with a greeting and possibly a short conversation when I come in.

What do you like best and most important in your job?

Being the listening ear for colleagues and having just a little more time for a nice chat with guests. I also find it important that there is good contact with the team. We have to work hard, but there must also be time and space for a joke.

What is your highlight so far in your job at WestCord Hotels?

All the nice people I have met. From colleagues, regular guests to famous people. Also the staff party at the Friends of Amstel live last year, Bidfood's hospitality parties at Walibi and the Ziggo Dome. And at the very beginning of my internship, I was outside pouring snert and glühwein, wearing a Santa hat, which was a lot fun!

How would your colleagues describe you or what three compliments do your colleagues give you?

It's not a party if Lena hasn't been there! I think colleagues can really be themselves with me, no matter how crazy that may be! I guess they would say that I am social, offer a listening ear, but can also definitely work hard at busy times.