Outlook for Careers in Hotel Management

Some predictors seem to indicate that employment in this field is likely to grow at a slower than average rate from other employment fields. This is primarily due to the fact that the hotel industry, like many other travel related industries have suffered serious setbacks since the events of 9/11.

Work as a hotel manager can be stressful, due to long hours and handling customer service issues.

Many of the jobs in hotel management expected to open within the next few years are anticipated to come from positions where individuals are leaving to pursue other employment and personal options. Hotel managers can expect to work varied shifts, as situations arise, needs warrant and also depending on the establishment.

Managers working in higher scale establishments and luxury hotels may be able to work a schedule that is more reflective of a normal schedule; setting emergencies aside, of course.

Smaller establishments tend to have a reduced number of staff as well as a significant amount of staff turnover and absenteeism; which can mean the manager will need to be present more often at night and on weekends.

Some hotel managers, particularly those without family attachments, prefer to live on-site where they can receive a number of perks and discounted services as well as being right on hand to handle problems as they arise.

Employment Prospects in Hotel Management

There are a number of employment prospects available for individuals interested in working as a hotel manager. The hotel industry, particularly in management, offers significant room for advancement.

Most people start out in the hospitality industry, management division, as a front desk manager. This job role involves coordinating a variety of daily activities as well as supervising a limited number of staff.

From there, an individual may move on to managing a specific section of the hotel; particularly if they have prior experience in that department. Examples include:

• Food service manager
• Convention services manager
• Housekeeping manager
• Resident manager

An assistant manager works directly with the general manager and has the role of stepping in when the general manager is unavailable, handling personnel matters, recreation for guests, office administration and a variety of other tasks. Depending on the size of the establishment, a hotel may only employ one assistant manager or several.

Finally, there is the general manager, who has complete responsibility and oversight of the entire establishment. Usually this person is assisted by at least one other individual.

Job Search for Hotel Management Positions

Hotel manager positions can be found in a variety of ways ...

Many large hotel establishments and chains prefer to either promote from within the ranks or search for candidates through the services of a headhunting or recruitment agency.

Mid-size establishments may also utilize these techniques while adding the option of advertising in the classifieds.

Finally, smaller scale hotels and motels will typically post a help-wanted sign, place a classified ad or promote from within. As with almost any type of employment field, networking can always be a tremendous help in finding out about job openings.

Cover Letters for Careers in Hotel Management

The cover letter targeted for a senior hotel position give the job candidate a perfect opportunity to discuss their commitment to customer service.

… especially when the candidate explains how the knowledge and skills they gained through those opportunities can benefit the prospective employer, increase customer satisfaction, employee morale and overall revenue.

Resumes for Careers in Hotel Management

Senior hotel positions require both a combination of skills and education, therefore a straightforward chronological resume or functional resume may not always be able to highlight all of the important assets of a job candidate looking for this type of position.

A combination resume, however; takes the best from both resume formats and combines them into a winning solution.

Training & Qualifications for Hotel Management Positions

While it is not technically required to possess a college degree in order to obtain employment as a hotel manager, due to the significant amount of business work as well as financial work involved, most hotel chains and private employers will not consider an applicant unless they possess, at a minimum, a bachelor’s degree.

Many prefer candidates to have graduated from business school, have an MBA, a degree in hospitality services or a combination degree reflecting study in business as well as hospitality studies.

Continuing education is frequently offered to hospitality industry employees, especially in luxury hotels and for management staff. Candidates can expect to hear about topics such as stress management, time management and effective customer satisfaction strategies for a diverse customer base.

Good luck in your search for a top management job in the hotel industry!