My Hospitality Story: Chelsea McNett, Event Sales Manager

Chelsea McNett
Event Sales Manager, Lucky Strike Philadelphia

What does a "typical" day at work look like for you?
I sell social and corporate parties for my venue through servicing inquiries, cold calls and networking.
It’s a lot of time on the phone going through event details, building out contracts, and making event dreams come true!

Philadelphia's Lucky Strike is an open-atmosphere venue featuring 24 bowling lanes, ping pong and billiards tables, 2 full bars, DJ, and VIP and lounge seating.

What was your first job in the hospitality industry?
A server when I was 16.

When did you know this industry was right for you?
I tried working in other industries and I hated how stuffy and monotonous it was. I crave the excitement and human interaction this industry gives me. Plus, I'm a hospitable person by nature, so I love giving people a great experience.
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Briefly describe your career path and how you got to where you are today.
I was a server and bartender throughout my 20s. Eventually, I craved a more stable paycheck, so I transitioned to a management position. From there, I fell in love with sales and marketing, and dedicated myself to the event sales sector of the hospitality industry. There are more typical hours (Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm) which gives me a great work life balance, although I still crave the night life from time to time.

​What is your favorite part of your job?
Making connections with people! I love knowing that I am someone's go-to contact for events or partnerships. Like I said before, I want everyone to have a great experience when they are working with me, so if I can make someone's life easier, my job is done.

What is the most challenging part of your job?
Meeting sales goals will always be a challenge because there can be external reasons why certain groups aren't returning, or we aren't seeing the same business month after month. However, it's what makes the job fun.

What advice would you give to students interested in your profession?
Make connections! This is a tight knit industry full of professionals that want to help, so go out and meet people. Make yourself known. Be prompt with responses, and people will love working with you.

What achievement are you most proud of?
I was recognized in my company as a Rising Star in my first year- that's when I knew I found a home!

What do you like to do outside of work?
Bar hopping, hiking, playing video games, hanging out with my husband and dog. I'm a reality TV addict.

What is your favorite food to make or eat?
Mac and cheese.

What's at the top of your bucket list?
Travel more. I'm crossing Belize off my list this year, and I hope to do Machu Picchu soon.