When applying to hospitality companies it is important to consider the kind of position that you wish to pursue and the training schemes they can provide you to help move your career in the right direction.
Many international hotel chains as well as smaller firms provide in-depth management training programs to new graduates. Depending on the structure and objective of the firm’s program, some may offer fast-track programs that briefly train hotel management graduates in all major areas of the hotel’s operations. Meanwhile, other companies may provide a slower more hands on approach that builds on experience by getting to know each department thoroughly through working directly in them over a determined period of time. Still other hotel companies provide programs that concentrate on specific operations or departments.
What kind of work does the position involve?
Depending on the size and type of company you apply to, the kind of work involved in a specific position can vary widely. Are you interested in a front-of-house operational position or a back-of-house, office related position? Working for larger, multinational hotel companies may offer more corporate-level, office-based positions than say a small boutique hotel that requires you to perform tasks throughout the hotel’s operations. There are advantages and disadvantages to both large and small companies so it is important to consider your personal career objectives when applying for an entry-level position in hotel management.
What kind of training does the employer offer?
Upon graduating and seeking your first job in the hospitality industry, it is important to look at the broader picture and think about what development opportunities are available. Do you prefer a clear training schedule that will lead to a specific area of work or departmental operation in the future? Or are you more flexible and prefer an approach that is varied and involves tailored learning in various operational functions? Depending on the company, you can find hotels that include periods of workshop or classroom training combined with group exercises and simulated tasks that prepare you in advance of hands-on training. Still other firms will provide management development that incorporates on-the-job training from day one while gradually affording you the opportunity to progress to management-level responsibilities.
How do I approach an employer?
Before sending your resume to potential employers it is advisable to plan in advance and this entails research, research, and more research. Get to know the hotel company, their history, their business model, their future plans, their employee promotion structure and learn what they expect from entry-level candidates. If you go into an interview prepared and confident in how you will answer questions then your chances of being hired increase enormously.
Furthermore, know your own goals and transmit these to the employer in a way that clearly shows how you can benefit their organization. Finally, be flexible and open to opportunities you may not have considered before applying.
