Communication & language requirements
Communication and Language Requirements in the International Hospitality Industry
Clear communication is one of the most important success factors in the
international hospitality industry.
Hospitality teams are increasingly international, and a shared working language
— usually English — is essential.
Good communication ensures:
- safe and efficient work during busy shifts
- clear instructions and fewer mistakes
- better cooperation in international teams
- professional guest interaction
- a smoother recruitment and onboarding process
That is why both employers and candidates need to understand in advance
what communication methods and language requirements apply.
Why communication matters in international hospitality
In an international workplace, language is not about perfection,
but about being understood.
Miscommunication leads to stress, safety risks and disappointment on both sides.
Clear communication contributes to:
- safe and calm cooperation during peak hours
- faster onboarding of new team members
- efficient hiring via WhatsApp and video calls
- realistic expectations before relocation
You can read more about our overall recruitment approach on the page
About us.
Communication during the hiring process
WhatsApp – primary communication channel
Within international hospitality recruitment, WhatsApp is the standard
communication tool between employer and candidate.
It is used for:
- first contact between employer and candidate
- scheduling and confirming video calls
- sharing documents, photos and additional information
- quick updates without delays caused by email
Because nearly all candidates use WhatsApp, communication remains accessible,
fast and practical.
For general information about WhatsApp:
WhatsApp – official website
.
Video calls – standard selection step (±30 minutes)
A video call is a core part of the selection process.
Most employers schedule an interview of approximately 30 minutes.
During this call:
1. Mutual introduction
- candidate explains motivation, experience and background
- employer presents the company, team, location and expectations
- both sides immediately sense whether there is a good match
2. Language assessment
The employer checks whether the candidate:
- communicates clearly in the agreed working language (usually English)
- understands instructions and questions
- is fluent enough to work within an international team
3. Practical matters
- working hours and schedules
- seasonal pressure
- accommodation (if applicable)
- job responsibilities
- salary and conditions
4. Questions from both sides
This creates a complete and honest picture in a single conversation.
Recommended language levels in international hospitality
To avoid misunderstandings, we work with clear minimum language guidelines.
These help employers know what to expect and candidates understand their position.
- Kitchen (Back of House): A2–B1 English
- Service / Front of House: B1–B2 English
- Supervisory / leadership roles: B2–C1 English
Candidates who do not speak English can only be placed if an employer explicitly
indicates this. In practice, this is rare in international hospitality.
CEFR language levels explained
The CEFR system helps translate language levels into daily practice.
| Level | Meaning | Example in the workplace |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Beginner | Understands single words; insufficient for international hospitality work |
| A2 | Basic user | Can follow simple instructions; minimum for many kitchen roles |
| B1 | Independent user | Can communicate at work and assist guests |
| B2 | Fluent user | Communicates professionally; suitable for busy operations |
| C1–C2 | Near-native | Ideal for leadership, complex tasks and guest interaction |
Official CEFR information:
Council of Europe – CEFR
Language learning resources
Learning English
Learning Dutch
What employers should expect
- clear language profiles for candidates (A1–C2)
- support with video call scheduling
- fast communication via WhatsApp
- realistic explanation of accents and fluency
- fewer surprises during onboarding
More recruitment information:
How it works – employers.
What candidates should expect
- clear explanation of language requirements
- honest feedback on current language level
- a structured 30-minute video interview
- practical tips to improve language skills
- transparent expectations from employers
Ready to apply for an international hospitality job?
Find a cook.
Start international hospitality with clarity
Employers:
Hire a chef – UK & Ireland recruitment
Candidates:
Sign up for international hospitality jobs
For general European labour mobility information:
EURES – European Job Mobility Portal
.