In an industry built on service, there’s one career move that can shape everything: starting from the bottom.
For Certified Hospitality Professional Alessandro Pasague, that simple piece of advice defined his trajectory. “Start from the bottom and work your way up,” he shared in an interview with Financial Adviser PH. “That advice taught me humility and perseverance.”
Before leading teams or driving growth, Pasague spent years learning the ropes—doing the jobs others often overlook. From hands-on operations to behind-the-scenes coordination, he built his career on a deep understanding of what it really takes to deliver great service.
“Every achievement carries more meaning when you earn your position through hard work,” he said. “It’s not just about getting the job—it’s about growing into it.”
That growth didn’t come from shortcuts. It came from showing up, asking questions, learning on the floor, and proving he could do the work. Those early roles laid the foundation for the leadership style he’s known for today—empathetic, accountable, and operations-savvy.
“That foundation gave me not only technical knowledge but also a strong sense of accountability and leadership,” Pasague added.
In today’s career culture, where fast-tracking and titles can overshadow real experience, Pasague’s journey offers a refreshing reminder: climbing slowly often leads to stronger, more sustainable success. Especially in hospitality, where the work is as much about people as it is about processes, leaders who’ve “been there” gain trust—and insight—that can’t be taught in a classroom.
Professionals who’ve worked at every level often become the kind of leaders teams want to follow. They understand the pressures of peak hours, the value of a good teammate, and the pride in a job well done—because they’ve lived it.
“You grow into your role,” Pasague said. “And when you do it from the ground up, you carry that experience with you every step of the way.”
The bottom line? If you want to lead with impact, start with experience. And don’t underestimate where an entry-level job can take you.
