Welcome to the Hospitality Industry Geek

Hello,

My name is Chris (Sid) Maples and this is my new blog. I have been wanting to do a blog for a while now but wasn't sure on what. The last two years I have been working on a bachelors degree in business and I am now two classes away from graduating. I chose the business degree because of its flexibility to move into other industries plus it compliments my current career. I have always said that I was going to keep my options open and was open to leaving the industry if the right opportunity presented itself. As I progressed through the bachelors program I applied my studies to the hospitality industry and I finally realized:

1. I love what I do! You have to love it to do it for 22 years.
2. I haven't reached full capacity, there is so much more I can learn.
3. I would be a fool to walk away from all the experience that I have. 

For the last 22 years I have been working in hotels and restaurants as a bartender. What I love about the hospitality industry is I have a job that allows me to have a positive impact in people's daily lives. I also love how the service and hospitality industry has grown over the years. Even after 22 years I am more focused and passionate then ever about the hospitality industry and motivated to continue to learn and grow.

What you can expect here at Hospitality Industry Geek is everything hospitality. There isn't a topic that is safe. If I can relate it to hospitality then it may be covered and there isn't much that I can't relate to hospitality. For me hospitality is about self-improvement, serving others, living life to the fullest, food, wine, cocktails, traveling, creating memorable moments and making the most of each day.

I will cover topics like:

• Food and Wine pairing
• Controlling Prime Costs (liquor, food, and labor) 
• Leadership and Management styles
• Marketing, Promotions, and Social Media Essentials
• Product and Restaurant reviews
• Customer Service
• Restaurant Operations

I am going to stop right there because this list can go on and on. You will have to come back to see what I am serving up. So thank you for stopping by and please come again!