Ear on Careers – Jerry Frungillo, Caterer
March 3, 2010
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Jerry Frungillo, Caterer
In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Jerry Frungillo, co-owner of Frungillo Caterers, www.frungillo.com.
Frungillo Caterers is a family-owned business, started by Jerry’s parents in 1973. Knowing that he was going to go into the family business, Jerry opted for a business major as his undergraduate degree from William Paterson University. He feels that is formal education provided a solid background into running a business, which complemented his previous life experiences, and offered much insight as he grew the business. Under Jerry’s stewardship with his brother Robert, Frungillo Caterers has grown from a single catering location to four banquet halls plus off-premise catering capabilities.
Jerry views his career as a caterer as a way to make people’s dreams come true. His job is not limited to the four or five hours that the event is taking place, but rather encompasses many hours prior to the event in planning with the client. “Holding hands” with the client, as Jerry says, making sure their vision comes to fruition seamlessly.
In the podcast, Jerry shares a harrowing “war story” about a tent that literally blew away! Listen as Jerry explains how he was able to save the day, and how guests were totally unaware of the last minute changes due to his professionalism, the mark of a superb caterer.
Jerry offers great advice for students considering becoming a caterer. The first piece of advice that he shares is to know yourself and your limitations, as being a caterer you will work 90 hours per week. Next, shadow a professional for a week to walk in a caterers’ shoes to make sure you like it. Third, start at the bottom as a dishwasher and move up the ranks, so that you thoroughly understand each position and how it fits into the whole organization.
On April 16, 2010, Jerry is being honored by William Paterson University with a Distinguished Alumni Award at the school’s Legacy Award Gala. Jerry co-stars in the TLC television series, Masters of Reception, with his brother Robert.
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s first “career day” podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
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