The world of freelancing has been a popular way of working for years now and its own set of perks and drawbacks.
In today’s article though, we’ll be particularly talking about the chef-in-making, basically the people who have a knack for cooking and are looking to become a great freelance chef in the UK.
We have brought to you this small guide that can help you become the freelance chef that you want to be; with a few simple tips and instructions, there’s nothing that can stop you from becoming successful in this journey.
So let’s get started!
Why Become a Freelance Chef?
There are many benefits that follow freelancing, and some of them are mentioned below for your assistance -
- You choose the number of hours you want to work
- You get to work on different types of commercial kitchens
- Enhanced work-life balance
- Reward for every hour you work
- More contacts in the chef industry
- Experience this unique way of working
- The opportunity to broaden your geographical horizon (work for people outside your county)
There are a lot of other things that count as major advantages of becoming a freelance chef in the UK. However, depending on your location, skills and experience, there are other benefits that add up to the basic ones we’ve mentioned.
The Experience That the Chef Needs
Freelance chefs are expected to adapt to all the kitchens they’re supposed to work in. This can only happen when you have the right set of skills, experience and adaptability because you never know what kind of business might be looking to hire you.
That means, it's no good to stick to just one cuisine; you should have proper training and experience in cooking a wide platter of dishes from all over the world. You should have the right set of appliances, a modern kitchen that can accommodate all your cooking needs and the right training to carry out any challenge that might come your way.
That said, you should get proper training under a head chef before going alone on the field, to ensure that you come out as an all-around expert in the job you wish to do.
How to Get the Actual Work?
- The most magical word when you’re a freelance chef is ‘availability’; it is an action that can give you the power of getting hired.
Whether you’re a trained chef or just starting out, promoting your availability is necessary. You can do this by contacting the relevant businesses to let them know the dates of your availability.
By doing this, you’re in charge of the narrative - you can work around the negotiations, working hours and everything that surrounds the job. The process further helps you build contacts and network with other chefs, ultimately bringing work to you!
Way to show your talents
One apparent way to show your talents is by entering the chef competitions - a great way to get exposure and interact with people in the industry.
- Secondly, you should reap the benefits of the internet. Make sure to establish a website and keep it up-to-date with the latest digital marketing strategies. Use this medium to sell your experiences, skills and knowledge by means of your image and food.
This website is your cue to get professional shots when you’re in the kitchen, making them an additional layer for credibility for people who’re looking. Similarly, include a section of your past experience - the head chefs you’ve worked with, their reviews about your work and their contact information, as this will gradually increase your credibility and give you references easily.
- Lastly, a more traditional way to find freelance chef jobs in the UK is by using the ‘word-of-mouth’ technique.
Ask your friends and past employers if they have any vacancies. The opportunities are endless - you might find work in the food court of some flea market, a business event or any other fancy shiz next door, so don’t limit yourselves to just local restaurants.
Summing Up…
Becoming a freelance chef in the UK is one of the best jobs that you can choose, if you have the knack for it.
It is the dream come true for people who are trying to have a better work-life balance. It pays well and more importantly, lets you do things on your own terms. All you have to do is build slowly, look at your options and come up with the right decisions for your life!
Read also:
Leave a Reply