How to become a General Manager
The most important prerequisite for becoming a general manager is to know the business that you want to manage. Prospective general managers should gain many years of experience in the desired field. For example, if you want to be the GM of a steakhouse, a starting point for some people would be to join the waitstaff, then progress to the role of front of the house supervisor and continue moving up from there. Having deep knowledge of steak and feeling comfortable working in the restaurant industry would increase the candidate's chances as a GM.
A post-secondary degree is not necessary to become a general manager, although some level of required education may be necessary depending on the company. Most general managers hold a bachelor's degree or, at the very least, a high school diploma.
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What skills help General Managers find jobs?
- Analysis skills
- Basic math
- Budgeting
- Communication skills
- Computer literacy
- Computer skills
- Customer service
- Employment & labor law
- English
- Food service
- Guest services
- Hospitality
Career progression for General Manager
Education levels for General Managers
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| High school diploma or GED | 50.7% |
| Bachelor's degree | 26.6% |
| Associate's degree | 17.9% |
| Master's degree | 4.5% |
| Doctoral degree | 0.2% |
| Middle school education | 0.1% |
Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $37,900 |
| 4 - 8 | $40,200 |
| 8 - 12 | $46,900 |
| 12 - 16 | $52,800 |
| 16 - 20 | $57,700 |
| 20 - 24 | $60,600 |
Common qualifications for General Managers
CPR Certification
AED Certification
ASE Certification
Food Safety Certification
ServSafe
Driver's License
Food Handler Certification
Common questions about career advices for a General Manager
What skills should I have to be a general manager?
- The ability to make tough decisions throughout the day.
- Strong leadership ability.
- Confident giving orders.
- Excellent communication, both written and verbal.
- Very organized and self-motivated.
- Excellent problem-solving abilities.
