What is RSA Training?

Are you interested in working at a venue that sells or serves alcohol? Whether you’re planning on working in a pub, sporting club, cocktail bar or elsewhere – RSA training is mandatory.

An RSA course will cover a range of topics including the service of alcohol and your responsibilities. As well as laws and legislation’s surrounding alcohol and how to assist customers who have consumed it.

Furthermore, if you are wanting to work in a venue that serves, sells or supplies alcohol, you will need to complete RSA training first. Completing an RSA course will improve your resume and increase your chance of employment.

What does RSA stand for?

RSA stands for Responsible Service of Alcohol. The name clearly highlights what you will learn when undertaking the course – how to responsibly serve, sell or supply alcohol. 

When do you need an RSA certificate?

If you want to work within any venue where serving alcohol is involved, you will need to complete an RSA course first. Whether this be for working in a pub, club, restaurant or somewhere else. If you’re serving alcohol, you will need to have your current RSA certificate.

Although this is a requirement, RSA training will teach you all about the alcohol laws in your state. As well as how to responsibly serve alcohol to patrons and what to do in certain situations. Some of the skills you learn within this course may also be useful in other environments. 

Furthermore, if you have your current RSA certificate, you are enhancing your chances of getting a job. This qualification will open up many opportunities within the workforce – especially hospitality.

What will you learn by completing an RSA course? 

Although Responsible Service of Alcohol may seem straight forward to some, an RSA course can be quite eye opening. You may not think about certain situations that may occur and how you would respond to them. As well as certain legislation’s that you may not be aware of.

The main topics covered in Responsible Service of Alcohol training is:

  • how to sell or serve alcohol properly
  • how to assist customers to drink within appropriate limits
  • communication strategies to refuse the supply of alcohol 
  • current RSA legislation’s in SA

RSA training online vs RSA training from a classroom

Each state in Australia has different requirements for you to work in the sale, supply or service of alcohol. Therefore, each state requires different RSA training and it may or may not be mandatory.

In South Australia, RSA training is a mandatory requirement when working with liquor. Unlike some other states, it can be completed online or in a classroom. And the online course will often be slightly cheaper than the in classroom learning option.

Where to complete an RSA course

RSA courses are easily accessible and can be completed online or in a classroom. Not to mention, they are also very affordable. If you’re looking for RSA training in Adelaide, HITsa offer both online and in classroom courses with experienced trainers.

RSA training – it’s important and mandatory

Furthermore, RSA training is a mandatory requirement in SA and other states if you’re wanting to work within the sale, service or supply of alcohol. RSA Training will generally cost anywhere from $50 – $100 to complete and can be completed online or in a classroom. Again, different states have different legislation’s, so you may or may not be able to complete the course online in other states. Having your RSA certificate will help you greatly when looking for work within the hospitality industry.

HITsa offer RSA training via an online course or in classroom learning. Enquire online today and kick start your career in hospitality. Or in addition, call our friendly staff on 8375 2800 for any questions or queries. 

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CV vs. Resume: what’s the difference?

Trying to find work and applying for jobs all starts from your resume or CV. Meaning your first point of interest from your potential employer would be both of these things. Or maybe even your cover letter, depending on what is required for your application. 

But, if you’re new to the workforce you may not know how to write a resume. And if this is the case, you probably also don’t know how to write a CV. Knowing how to write these documents and when to use them is crucial to finding a job. So, here’s some information and tips to clarify what these are!

What is a CV?

A CV (short for Curriculum Vitae which is Latin for ‘course of life’) is a detailed document highlighting your career and education accomplishments. Which could include information such as; education, research experience, presentations, awards and scholarships.

CV’s are an important document outlining your full working history and achievements. Therefore, you want to make sure it’s powerful and stands out to employers.

What is a Resume?

A resume is generally a 1-2 page document that summarizes the most important information that a prospective employer would need to know.

This would include:

  • Contact Information: name, address, phone number and email.
  • Summary of Qualifications: relevant or impressive qualifications.
  • Work History: present and past employment, include dates, companies, job titles and relevant skills.
  • Education: highest level of education completed.
  • References: always include 2 or 3 references, making sure you ask them for permission prior to.

Your resume could also include relevant achievements, licenses and computer skills. As well as related courses or training that you’ve undertaken/completed. 

When resume writing, make sure you keep the design and layout neat and tidy. Your resume should stand out and catch your employers’ eye.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is the introduction to your resume. It should be more personal and informative, detailing why you think you are a strong match for the job. Also, do some research on the company and the role you’re applying for. This will help you to reflect your interest in the specific organisation and identify your most relevant skills. As well as show that you are genuinely interested in the role. Rather than using something generic, which would most likely get skimmed over and not read.

Think of your cover letter as a sales pitch, be confident and market your skills. You want to ensure that your cover letter makes the best impression, as this will most likely be your first point of contact.

Furthermore, finish your cover letter by asking the employer to continue and read your resume. And also ask them to contact you. 

For example, ‘I have attached a copy of my resume. I look forward to hearing from you about this position’.

What’s the difference between a CV and a resume?

The main differences between a resume and a CV are length, what info is included and the purpose of the document. CV’s don’t have a length limit, depending on how much career experience you have or don’t have. Your CV could be 2 pages long to 4 pages long. Whereas a resume will generally be 1-2 pages max. A CV will detail your entire academic career and a resume will summarise your skills and work experience. 

Most commonly, CV’s are applicable when applying for positions in; medical fields, academia and scientific research. This being because a CV will include info about your research, teaching experience, awards, grants and projects. While resumes include the more basic and straight forward details that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Therefore, a resume is the most common document requested when looking for work.

Is it bad if you have them confused?

It’s not a disaster if you’ve been confused between a CV and a resume. In Australia, CV’s are often used interchangeably with a resume. Which means they are referred to as the same thing – most of the time.

In other countries CV’s are used primarily when applying for jobs within the following fields; education, scientific, medical and academic.

When applying for these roles in Australia, it would be more beneficial to follow the layout of a CV rather than a resume. Use your judgement for what document would be more suitable for your application. Otherwise, most advertisements will state what they request from their candidates. Which will most commonly be a cover letter and resume. 

You’re ready to start resume writing!

Now that you know the basics of how to write a resume and how to write a cv… it’s time to get resume writing! Always ensure your documents include relevant and accurate information. And most importantly, make sure the layout is neat and easy to read with no mistakes. You want to impress your potential employer with these documents as they will probably be your first point of contact. Therefore, your first impression. 

Looking for work can be tough, so make sure you start off on the right foot (a great CV, resume and cover letter). Simply do that and you should find yourself with a job in no time.

Lastly, if you’re looking for work make sure you check out the Jobs Board which is updated daily. Keep your eye on it and start applying today! 

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Work in a Gaming Room

Working within hospitality can include bars, kitchens, restaurants and of course, gaming rooms. Most Hotels will have a gaming room consisting of pokies, with some also having TAB, Keno and Lotto. However, not all Hotels will have a gaming room. 

Working in a gaming room may mean that you are required to work long, late hours. But, to be able to do this you need to have the right badges. When working behind a bar and serving alcohol you will be required to have your RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) certificate. Likewise, to work within a gaming room you need to have your RSG (Responsible Service of Gaming) certificate.

Gaming work can open plenty of doors to new working opportunities. As well as teach you new skills, traits and how to handle big responsibilities. But, how do you get yourself a job within a gaming room? And what does it take to become a gaming employee?

What is a gaming room?

A gaming room can be found in many different establishments, which can include; surf clubs, sporting clubs, hotels, cruise ships and casinos. Most commonly, hotels and sporting clubs will feature gaming machines, TAB machines, Keno and lottery. Whereas casinos will feature a lot more gaming machines, as well as poker, black jack, roulette and many other gambling games. 

Gaming training

To work within a gaming room, you must complete certain gaming training and courses first. Basic Gaming Training must be completed by all gaming employees within 3 months of commencing work. Whereas a gaming manager must complete both Basic Gaming Training and Advanced Gaming Training. The required training must be completed through an RTO (Registered Training Organisation) within 3 months of starting within that role.

Basic Gaming Training

Basic Gaming is a requirement for all gaming employees who have not previously undertaken gaming training. Completing the course will provide you with the necessary qualifications to work within a gaming room. Basic Gaming takes 3 days to complete and includes a mix of theory and practical study.

Furthermore, having your gaming badges will be beneficial when applying for hospitality jobs. You will be able to work throughout different areas of the hotel or club which will make you a more favourable potential employee.

Advanced Gaming Training

All gaming managers must complete Advanced Gaming Training within 3 months of commencing work within that role. This course will roughly take 5 hours to complete.

In addition, gaming employees must maintain their level of knowledge through repeat training every two years.

Duties of a gaming employee

As a gaming employee you may be responsible for completing tasks such as: 

  • paying out winnings
  • refilling hoppers and tiny-tellers
  • counting drop boxes at closure of gaming room
  • record winnings and payouts 
  • provide assistance to gamers where needed
  • review and record suspected problem gamblers
  • remove disruptive people from gaming area when needed

Land a job

Some hospitality jobs will often require you to be able to work throughout all areas of the venue. Therefore, it’s great to complete both your RSA and Basic Gaming prior to applying for jobs. This will make you a more favourable and flexible potential employee as you already hold the requirements needed.

Furthermore, working within a gaming room comes with many responsibilities. To work in a gaming room you need to complete Basic Gaming Training within 3 months of employment. Completing this course provides you with the badge you need to work within a gaming room and also trains you on how to operate gaming machines, handle problem gambling and more.

HITsa Training and Employment offer affordable gaming training in Adelaide. Enrol in the Basic Gaming Course today, then continue on to complete the Advanced Gaming Course.

Lastly, check out the Jobs Board if you’re looking for hospitality jobs or gaming jobs in Adelaide.

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Cleaning Jobs – the importance of a cleaner

Cleaning jobs… a job that most people don’t think is important. However, most businesses wouldn’t be able to run without having a cleaner. Hygiene and cleanliness are highly important in pretty much every business. And without cleaners, these standards would not be met.

Working as a cleaner is often seen as an easy job, something you first start off with in the workforce. But this isn’t the case. Cleaning jobs can be very demanding in many aspects. 

Cleaning jobs can range from industries such as; tourism, hospitality, mining, retail and more. Meaning that the pay can also vary significantly, depending on the company you work for.

What is a cleaner?

A cleaner is employed to clean within a; domestic, industrial, health, education or public setting. That could be cleaning an office, home, aged care facility, mining accommodation or hotel. As well as a range of other things. Cleaning jobs can be available on a full-time, part-time or casual basis. And can vary from shift work to irregular hours.

Duties of a cleaner

When working in a cleaning job, you will be required to ensure particular areas are clean. This will be by; vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, polishing, wiping things down and disinfecting. Along with many other tasks, those are just few of many.

Most commonly, cleaners’ shifts will often start once the business has closed for the day. Or alternatively, before it has opened. This is so that the cleaning process does not interrupt business. Therefore, some cleaners may have the responsibility to ensure the building is locked and secure prior to finishing their shift.

Benefits of being a cleaner

Working as a cleaner can come with many benefits, some you would never even think of. Often as a domestic cleaner you can work for yourself/on your own. Which sometimes means that you can determine the hours you work, what time you work and how much you charge.

In addition, if you were to work as a cleaner for a hotel/caravan park, you will often work early mornings and no later than 3pm. This could be great if you have kids, as finishing earlier in the day allows you to do school pickups and cook dinner. 

Also, if you enjoy working alone a cleaning job could be your ideal choice of work. Quite often cleaners will work individually to get jobs done. So, if you enjoy your space, time and work better alone, a cleaning job may just be for you!

What you need to be able to work as a cleaner

As a cleaner, you may be required to work in a variety of environments. These environments may require you to obtain certain certificates or paperwork. Most commonly, prior to getting a cleaning job you will be required to provide a police check. This can be common in most workplaces. Especially if you’re working as a domestic cleaner within a school.

Also, if you’re working as cleaner for yourself you will need an ABN number and your own cleaning products.

How to become a cleaner

Cleaning jobs can be easier to get than other jobs. Sometimes all you need to do is obtain work experience within the field and gain on the job training. Or alternatively, a great way to get a cleaning job and also stand out from other applications would be to complete a Certificate 3 in Cleaning Operations.

What is a Certificate 3 in Cleaning Operations?

This cleaning course covers job ready skills to obtain cleaning jobs as commercial and home care cleaners. Cleaning Operations is completed in two phases; this being, four weeks of full-time training and then working 15hrs/week under a part-time contract for a local cleaning company. 

The course provides students with both hands-on practical skills training and class room based theory training. If you’re wanting to learn the skills needed to become a cleaner, a cleaning course would be ideal. Plus, it also provides you with formalised training and a qualification – which looks great on a resume!

Cleaners are important, so why not get a job as a cleaner!

Furthermore, cleaning jobs are just as important as many other jobs and do come with many benefits. They can be more flexible to work around your everyday life and working in that field can be very diverse. From domestic, industrial to public settings. Quite often there will be a lot of cleaning jobs available in various industries. 

If you’re looking for a cleaning job, keep an eye on our jobs board that gets updated daily. Alternatively, if you want to learn the skills to become a cleaner, enrol in the Certificate 3 in Cleaning Operations today!

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Do you need to complete First Aid training to get a job?

So, you’re currently job hunting and you’ve noticed some job ads require you to have completed First Aid training. Completing a First Aid course can be a great thing to do, however it isn’t essential for all jobs.

Some people may choose to undertake First Aid training because they want to be prepared in times of need. Or some people may be involved in community clubs which require them to have undertaken training.

There is a strong possibility that you could be faced with a First Aid incident at some point in your life. This could be; asthma attacks, anaphylactic shock, insect bite, choking or even cardiac arrest. Therefore, even if it isn’t a requirement of your job, undertaking First Aid training is a sensible thing to do.

What does a First Aid course include? 

The Provide First Aid course gives you the skills and knowledge required to respond to an emergency situation. As well as apply appropriate first aid procedures, communicate details of the incident and evaluate the incident.

At HITsa, training is delivered by paramedics and nurses who have history of working in the medical and health industry. It includes both theory and practical demonstrations of possible First Aid scenarios, allowing students to relate it to real life events.

First Aid training is a one day course that runs for about 7 hours. Once completed, the qualification remains current for three years during which time a refresher course must be completed. 

What jobs require First Aid training?

First Aid certification pre-requisites are most common when applying for high risk jobs. However, requirements will differ depending on the work environment and industry. Employers are starting to crack down on employee safety and understand the importance of first aid. Therefore, it’s becoming a common pre-requisite in many high risk jobs. 

Here are some examples of non-medical careers where employers often call for their employees to be certified:

  • Childcare Workers
  • Construction Workers
  • Electricians
  • Firefighters
  • Flight Attendants
  • Jails & Prison Staff
  • Lifeguards
  • Social Workers
  • Flight Attendant
  • Nanny & Babysitter
  • Teachers & School Staff
  • Security Guard

What is a high risk workplace?

A high risk workplace is an environment where there may be exposure to hazards that could result in serious injury/illness. These injuries could include; amputation, serious head or eye injuries, electric shock or serious lacerations.  

High risk work environments require at least one First Aider for up to 25 workers and two for every 26-50 workers. This may vary depending on where the workplace is located. If it was a remote or isolated area with limited access to ambulance services, additional First Aiders would be required. 

What is a low risk workplace?

A low risk workplace is where there is no exposure to hazards that can result in serious injury. These workplaces could include; offices, banks, libraries and retail shops. 

In addition, low risk work places require one First Aider for every 10-50 workers and two for 50-51 workers.

The benefits of completing a First Aid course

Even though completing First Aid training is not always a requirement, it is an important thing to do. A First Aid course teaches you how to administer lifesaving First Aid when you’re faced with emergency situations. This could be within your workplace, at home or even down the street.

In addition, being certified in First Aid when applying for jobs will be beneficial and look good on your resume. Especially if you’re applying for high-risk roles. 

First Aid training isn’t a requirement for all jobs, but…

Yes, First Aid training is important, however it isn’t a requirement for all job roles. If you’re applying to work in a high risk environment, first aid training will often be a pre-requisite. Whereas low risk workplaces such as offices and retail shops won’t require it. In addition, each work place must have a minimum of one First Aider depending on how many staff there are. 

Jobs such as; lifeguards, nannies, childcare workers and school teachers will most commonly require you to have completed First Aid training. As well as a range of other similar roles. Having your certification in First Aid will always benefit you when looking for work. Even if you’re applying for jobs that don’t require it. 

Lastly, if you’re wanting to obtain your First Aid certification and undertake First Aid training you can enrol or enquire online today!

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Want to learn how to make cocktails?

Cocktails… a ‘fancy’ alcoholic beverage that most people enjoy to drink, but not so much make. Drinking cocktails is easy enough to do, however making them is a different story. It can be a very slow process if you’ve never made a cocktail before. One shot, two shot, ice… what’s next?

If you love drinking cocktails, it could be fair to say you’d probably enjoy working in a cocktail bar too (maybe). When applying for jobs within bars, whether that be cocktail bars or your typical pub bar, a lot will require you to have cocktail making experience. But what if you don’t have experience or don’t know how to make a cocktail? Well, that can be easily fixed with a few simple steps that will be covered below.

What does it take to work in a cocktail bar?

Firstly, before you learn how to make a cocktail you want to learn how to be the best bartender. The art of cocktail making is important, however so is the customer service that goes with it.

Bar work can require certain traits in a person. Working behind a bar can mean working with people who have been drinking. This can sometimes mean heavily intoxicated people and rowdy people. Which at times can be difficult to handle. Here are some of the main traits you will need when working within a bar.

Patience

Working in a bar can be both fun and testing, but it does require patience. You will constantly be working around alcohol and intoxicated people. Some people become rowdy, overly confident and loud when they drink. Alcohol affects everyone differently and you will need patience to be able to handle this.

People Person

Bar work requires you to be a people person as you will be working around new people every day. To be a successful bartender you will need to be able to engage with customers. Customers will often want to talk, this could be about their life, their problems or anything topical. You don’t necessarily have to have conversations with them, however it’s best to show some interest and acknowledge what they’re saying.

Passionate

Being passionate about your work will show through your performance and most importantly, the cocktails and drinks you make. As well as your customer service. If you’re not passionate about your job it will more than likely reflect on your customers and your performance. Which is not what you or your employee will want. 

A sense of humour

If you’ve been around intoxicated people before you would probably know what they can be like sometimes. When working in a bar it’s best to have some sort of sense of humour, or at least not take everything seriously. Plus, customers will often love to be able to have a laugh with staff. Especially regular customers.

Time to talk about cocktail making

Now that we’ve covered the basic traits of cocktail bartending, let’s learn how to make a cocktail. Or to be more precise, the steps to take to learn how to make a cocktail.

Becoming a great cocktail bartender and making the best cocktails can take time. Firstly you want to start off by learning how to make the classic well-known cocktails. Such as; Espresso Martini, Mojito, Pina Colada, Long Island Iced Tea, Margarita and more. 

In addition, a great way to learn how to make cocktails is to take a cocktail course. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge required to prepare and serve a range of cocktails. As well as help you to land a job within a cocktail bar.

The basic tools needed to make a cocktail

Measure/Jigger

The first tool needed, even though not all bartenders would use this tool, is a jigger. Experienced bartenders may not use this tool as they’re used to free pouring. However, as a beginner you should definitely use a jigger. A jigger is a measuring tool that is used to measure liquid. This is an important tool as balance is important when making cocktails. You don’t want to have too much or too little of something as it will throw off the whole drink. 

Shaker

The shaker is a simple yet important tool. This tool is required for any drink that needs to be mixed/shaken. The most common shaker that bartenders use is a Boston shaker. 

Strainer

The next important tool is a strainer. Some shakers may come with a built in strainer and some may not. A strainer is to be used after shaking a drink, it helps to ensure that all fruits and herbs don’t end up in the final product. Simply place the strainer on top of the shaker whilst pouring the drink into a glass.  

Bar Spoon

A simple, yet very important tool. A bar spoon is a metal spoon with a long and spiral handle that is used for stirring drinks. Some bar spoons will also have a handle on the end which is used to muddle herbs.

Time to start making cocktails

Now that you know all the basics of cocktail bartending service as well as the basic tools to make a cocktail, it’s time to learn how to make one! Although there are plenty of books and articles with step to step guides on how to make a cocktail. The best way to learn is by completing a cocktail course (Prepare and Serve Cocktails). This will not only give you that hands on practice with a qualified trainer. But, also provide you with a nationally recognised training certificate. Which will be beneficial when it comes to applying for jobs. You may not have that on the job experience yet, but you’ll be as close to it as you can get! 

Furthermore, HITsa Training and Employment offer a Prepare and Serve Cocktails Course – enrol online today. Most importantly, if you’re looking to work behind a bar you will need to complete your RSA course first.

Lastly, if you’re looking for work check out our online jobs board where you can find a range of; hospitality, security, admin and aged care jobs.

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