Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Folio • Overbooking • Front Desk

Check-out

Term from Hospitality industry explained for recruiters

Check-out is a crucial part of hotel and accommodation operations where guests complete their stay and settle their bill. It includes handling payments, reviewing charges, collecting room keys, and ensuring guest satisfaction. This process can be done traditionally at the front desk or through modern methods like mobile apps or automated kiosks. The term can also refer to the specific time when guests must leave their rooms (such as "check-out time is 11 AM") or to the physical area where this process takes place.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Check-out procedures for up to 200 guests daily at peak times

Reduced Check-out waiting times by implementing express Check-out systems

Trained new staff in Check-out procedures and payment processing

Typical job title: "Front Desk Agents"

Also try searching for:

Front Desk Associate Guest Service Agent Hotel Receptionist Front Office Agent Guest Relations Officer Reception Manager Front Office Coordinator

Where to Find Front Desk Agents

Professional Networks

• AHLA (American Hotel & Lodging Association)
• Hospitality Net
• LinkedIn Hospitality Groups

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where multiple guests are waiting to check out during peak hours?

Expected Answer: A senior staff member should discuss implementing express check-out options, efficiently organizing staff schedules, and having contingency plans for busy periods. They should also mention strategies for maintaining guest satisfaction during wait times.

Q: What systems have you put in place to improve the check-out process?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience in implementing efficient procedures, training staff, and using technology to streamline operations. Should also discuss how they measure success and handle guest feedback.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you handle billing disputes during check-out?

Expected Answer: Should explain process of reviewing charges with guests, accessing records to verify charges, and professionally resolving disagreements while maintaining good customer service.

Q: What steps do you take to ensure a smooth check-out process?

Expected Answer: Should discuss pre-check-out preparation, reviewing guest accounts, coordinating with housekeeping, and ensuring all guest services are properly closed out.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What information do you need to collect during check-out?

Expected Answer: Should mention room keys, final bill review, payment processing, and asking about guest satisfaction. Basic understanding of the standard check-out procedure.

Q: How would you handle a guest who wants to check out late?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of hotel policies regarding late check-out, how to check room availability, and proper communication with housekeeping.