Human beings are the driving force behind every industry, but the Hotel Industry is one that requires their physical presence.
The coronavirus hit several sectors of the economy pretty hard, and the Hotel Industry was no exception. Additionally, while other businesses fought to transition to a more versatile and easily accessible platform i.e. the internet, hotels had no such option at their disposal.
With the vaccine distribution skyrocketing with every passing day, things are looking much better. After one difficult year, hotel owners and employees can release a sigh of relief. But, that doesn’t mean that the challenge is over. The pandemic has changed the entire economic and social outlook of the world, and survival depends heavily on adapting to the changes.
Therefore, to stay on top of things, here are a couple of tips that can help you navigate your career amidst a pandemic-stricken world.
For Hotel Employees
Pre-pandemic, it used to be simple for students to land jobs right after graduating from culinary school. However, things are not so simple anymore. If you plan on getting hired, the first step is to have skills related to different departments of a hotel as most companies keep foresightedness in mind when hiring.
Remain dedicated during your training as companies values individuals with a good work ethos. The hop, skip, and jump approach where you go from one job to another will only make you look impulsive and incompetent so don’t take up an offer that doesn’t excite you.
If you have field experience, make sure you have technical skills to add to your CV, since the technical staff is given more preference. You might even have to lower your expectations regarding pay given the current economic scenario. Opportunities that provide room for growth are what you should be going after.
For Owners and Management
It’s time to replan your staff ratios, and no we don’t mean retrenching your employees. Conduct time and motion studies to figure out your staff ratio per guest, staff ratio per room, and staff ratio per sq. feet. Remember that your staff is what makes or breaks your business, so don’t cut them off due to current circumstances.
Take staff training seriously if you want your business to adapt quickly and effectively to the new norm. While most employers prefer hiring already trained staff, that’s a notion that we must fight to reject. Sure, you might save some money by not training your staff but, would that get you your employees’ loyalty? Chances are slim.
To Sum It Up
We know that times are tough right now, but try not to despair and prepare yourself and/or your hotel business for this new normal. The industry will revive eventually (and quite quickly from the looks of it).