Whether you’re a bartender, sommelier or beverage manager, for many people working in drinks hospitality, the journey didn’t begin with a clear plan. Nearly two in five say they simply “fell into” the industry.
Yet what starts as a casual job often becomes a long-term passion, with new global research showing that two-thirds of workers go on to build enduring careers in the sector.
But the same survey also reveals an important truth for employees: there’s a critical period in your career where satisfaction dips, burnout rises and the temptation to leave becomes strongest.
Understanding the ‘critical period’
Those workers with four to 10 years’ experience enter a critical period where dissatisfaction spikes and thoughts about leaving the industry arise. Burnout, long hours, pay pressure and unclear progression are the main reasons people start looking for work elsewhere.
Knowing this pattern can help you take control of your career rather than feeling blindsided by it. The data shows the top challenges workers face in this period:
- Salary pressure
- Long or unpredictable hours
- Mental health strain
- A lack of career progression
The report highlights that while pay is important, building a sustainable career in the drinks industry is also about access to the right support, training and opportunities.
Long-term success
Workers identified several factors that make the biggest difference to their long-term success:
- Access to more training and upskilling
- Clearer, fairer career pathways
- Mentorship and guidance
- Consistent opportunities to grow and be recognised
If you’re not getting these, it may be worth raising the conversation with your manager or seeking development opportunities outside your workplace to keep your career moving.
Mental health matters
Most workers (85 per cent) say mental wellbeing is important, yet less than half feel they get enough support. Stress, burnout and poor work-life balance remain major challenges.
The research shows that strong teamwork, supportive colleagues and a positive culture have the biggest positive impact on mental health. Identifying workplaces and leaders who prioritise these factors can make or break your long-term career satisfaction.
Take charge of your career
Even simple actions can open new doors. Many employees miss out on competitions, training and industry programs just because no one has offered them. Being proactive can significantly boost your visibility and growth. Ask about opportunities, seek feedback and make your ambitions clear. If there’s a training course or industry program you’d like to do, for instance, ask your employer about it.
Of course, in a perfect world employers would be looking after your interests and making sure you stay motivated and happy in your role without you having to ask. But sometimes they might need a gentle nudge to remind them why they’re better off with you than a newbie they have to hire when you quit.
A career in drinks and hospitality can be incredibly rewarding, but the journey can have predictable pressure points. Understanding the challenges, knowing what to look for in a workplace, and taking ownership of your development can help turn an accidental start into a fulfilling, long-term career.
For more insights into the global survey, you can download the report, A Global Evaluation of the Drinks Hospitality Industry, here.