After years of standing at the front of the room leading workshops, guiding teams, and mentoring others in the world of hospitality training, I recently found myself in a vastly different seat: The Trainee.
I have officially started a new chapter with Dine Brands Global, supporting Applebee’s – a brand with deep roots and a strong heartbeat in the restaurant industry. And while my background includes years of experience as a hospitality trainer, walking into this new role reminded me of a powerful truth:
No matter how much you know, there is always more to learn.
From the moment I began onboarding, I was welcomed with open arms, insightful materials, and a team genuinely invested in my success. But I quickly realized this was not about learning systems, processes, or policies – it was about adopting a new culture, listening before leading, and remembering what it feels like to be new.
What I’ve Relearned as a Trainee:
- Humility fuels growth. It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking “I’ve ‘seen it all.’” But letting go of ego and embracing a beginner’s mind opens doors I did not even know existed.
- The best trainers never stop learning. Great hospitality is a living, evolving thing. To teach it well, we must stay curious and open – especially when stepping into a new environment.
- Culture eats comfort zones for breakfast. Applebee’s culture is one of energy, passion, and pride – and it has been energizing to experience it from the inside out.
There is something incredibly grounding about becoming a student again. It not only makes me a better professional, but it also makes me a better trainer. I now have fresh empathy for those I coach, a renewed sense of patience, and a deep appreciation for the teams who invest in helping others succeed.
To All the New Hires Out There:
Whether you are new to a company, new to a role, or simply entering a new chapter, lean into it. Ask the questions. Make the mistakes. Stay curious. That is where magic lives.
And to my fellow trainers, leaders, and L&D professionals: Do not forget what it feels like to be new. There’s wisdom in revisiting that perspective every now and then.
I am excited for what is ahead, and incredibly grateful to be learning, growing, and contributing at Dine Brands Global (Applebee’s). Here is to being both the teacher and the student.
How This Experience Is Making Me a Better Hospitality Trainer
Immersing myself in the hourly team member and manager roles at Applebee’s has been more than just a learning exercise, it’s been a transformative experience for my approach to hospitality training. By stepping into the shoes of those I aim to support, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the challenges, rhythms, and nuances that define their daily work. This firsthand exposure has allowed me to refine my training strategies to be more practical, empathetic, and aligned with real-world needs.
I now approach training content with a renewed focus on clarity and relevance, ensuring that every module speaks directly to the lived experiences of our team members. I’ve also become more intentional about incorporating feedback loops, recognizing that the best insights often come from those on the front lines. This experience has reminded me that effective training isn’t just about delivering information, it’s about fostering connection, building confidence, and empowering individuals to thrive in their roles.
Ultimately, being a trainee again has made me a more grounded and responsive trainer. It’s reinforced the importance of staying connected to the operational heartbeat of the business and continuously evolving to meet the needs of our teams. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and bring these insights with renewed purpose and passion.
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