WHAT IS A NIGHT AUDIT JOB?
A night audit job is a position in the hospitality industry responsible for reviewing financial transactions and ensuring that the daily accounting records are accurate. This job is typically performed during the overnight shift, when hotels and other lodging establishments are less busy. The person in this role is responsible for balancing the books, reconciling accounts, and generating reports for management. In addition, they also handle guest inquiries and complaints during the night shift.
WHAT USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION?
A night audit job involves a range of responsibilities, including:
- Balancing the books: One of the primary responsibilities of a night auditor is to ensure that all financial transactions from the day have been recorded accurately. This includes checking for any discrepancies or errors and making corrections as necessary.
- Generating reports: The night auditor is also responsible for generating reports that summarize the day's financial transactions. These reports are used by management to track revenue and expenses, and to make informed business decisions.
- Handling guest inquiries: During the night shift, the night auditor is often the only staff member available to handle guest inquiries and complaints. This requires strong customer service skills and the ability to handle difficult situations in a calm and professional manner.
- Performing administrative tasks: In addition to financial and customer service responsibilities, the night auditor may also be responsible for performing administrative tasks such as answering phones, responding to emails, and checking guests in and out of the hotel.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR A NIGHT AUDIT JOB
To be successful in a night audit job, there are several key skills that are essential:
- Attention to detail: A night auditor must have excellent attention to detail to ensure that all financial transactions are accurately recorded and that reports are generated correctly.
- Customer service: As the primary point of contact for guests during the night shift, a night auditor must have strong customer service skills and the ability to handle difficult situations with tact and diplomacy.
- Analytical skills: A night auditor must be able to analyze financial data and identify trends or anomalies that require further investigation.
- Communication skills: Effective communication is essential in a night audit job, as the night auditor must communicate with guests, management, and other staff members to ensure that all tasks are completed accurately and on time.
- Time management: A night auditor must be able to manage their time effectively, balancing the need to complete financial tasks with the need to respond to guest inquiries and complaints.
HOW TO BECOME A NIGHT AUDIT SPECIALIST
To become a night audit specialist, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some employers may also require an associate's or bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. In addition, previous experience in the hospitality industry or in a similar finance-related role is often preferred.
To increase your chances of landing a night audit job, consider obtaining certification in accounting or hospitality management. The National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers offers certification in accounting, while the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute offers certification in hospitality management.
AVERAGE SALARY
The average salary for a night auditor in the United States is around $30,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and qualifications. Entry-level positions typically pay less, while more experienced night auditors may earn higher salaries.
ROLES AND TYPES
There are a variety of roles and types of night audit jobs available in the hospitality industry. Some of the most common include:
- Hotel night auditor: This is the most common type of night audit job, which involves balancing the books and handling guest inquiries at a hotel or other lodging establishment.
- Casino night auditor: This type of night audit job involves reviewing financial transactions at a casino and ensuring that all accounting records are accurate.
- Restaurant night auditor: A restaurant night auditor is responsible for reviewing financial transactions and generating reports for a restaurant or food service establishment.
- Cruise ship night auditor: This type of night audit job involves balancing the books and handling guest inquiries on a cruise ship.
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR NIGHT AUDIT JOBS IN USA
The most popular locations for night audit jobs in the United States include major metropolitan areas such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. However, night audit jobs can be found in virtually any city or town with a significant hospitality industry.
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS?
To perform their duties effectively, a night auditor typically uses a range of tools and software programs, including:
- Accounting software: Night auditors typically use accounting software such as QuickBooks, Peachtree, or MYOB to record financial transactions and generate reports.
- Spreadsheet software: Excel or Google Sheets are commonly used to create financial spreadsheets and analyze data.
- Point of sale systems: Night auditors may also use point of sale systems to track sales transactions and reconcile cash registers.
- Property management systems: Many hotels and other lodging establishments use property management systems to manage room reservations, check-ins, and billing.
IN CONCLUSION
A night audit job can be a challenging but rewarding position in the hospitality industry. With a combination of financial and customer service skills, a night auditor can play an important role in ensuring that a lodging establishment runs smoothly and profitably. By developing the necessary skills and obtaining the appropriate certifications, you can become a valuable asset to any hotel or other hospitality organization.