Tourism and Hospitality Careers and New Trends
View(s):Tourism and Hospitality industry is not the same old profession it used to be 25 years before. Industry has gone through radical transformation during the past decade or two and the careers in the hospitality industry has become more lucrative and sought after by younger generation. Being the fastest growing industry in the world and ample opportunities in many countries across the globe, if you are a qualified and trained person in the field of hospitality and tourism, the career growth potential is unlimited.
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The top Ten Trends impacting the Hospitality and Tourism Sector Catering to Millennials
Millennials (those ages 18-34) are expected to represent 50% of all travelers to the USA by 2025 and globally, according to the Cornell Center for Hospitality Research. Companies need to define their strategies based on this demographic group’s personality traits and habits—they travel a lot; are early adopters of technology; like personalized interactions and are spontaneous. Hotels will want to please them with easy check-in and gourmet dining experiences at reasonable prices. In return, satisfied millennials will actively promote their businesses on social media channels.
Tech Explosion
The majority of guests today are self-sufficient, tech-savvy travelers who are comfortable using apps or mobile websites. Hotels need to make sure their offerings are up-to-date and user-friendly. At business meetings and conferences, travellers expect hotels and conference centers to have high quality tech equipment and a knowledgeable support staff.
Influx of International Visitors
International leisure travel is on the rise—Dubai International Airport has become the busiest airport in the world breaking traditional dominance of Europe and north American cities. Hotels must be able to provide services in a multitude of languages, and tailored experiences properly suited to the culture and unique needs of their international visitors.
Increased emphasis on health and wellbeing
Guests today are taking charge of their health; hotels are responding with well-equipped fitness centers, pools and spas. Increasingly, travellers are expecting innovative wellness options. In addition to healthy food options, growing trends include lighting that energizes, air purification, yoga spaces, in-room exercise equipment and even vitamin-infused shower water.
Need for seamless Technology
Seamless connectivity across platforms and devices is growing more important. Many hotel groups are offering mobile check-in and digital concierge services. At Aria Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, guests are issued high-tech cards that detect their presence and unlock the door before they even reach it.
Sustainability Rules
Eco-friendly practices are becoming the norm, as properties focus on renewable energy resources and water scarcity. Many hotels are installing solar panels and updating systems so that air conditioners and lights automatically switch off when guests leave their rooms.
New Roles for Staff
Many travelers seem to prefer technology to human beings—they want to check-in digitally and don’t mind if a robot delivers room service. This will give staff the opportunity to focus on more personalized service, as opposed to routine tasks.
Destination Promotion
The explosion of social media is causing hotels to become more involved in destination and self-promotion. Many are featuring guests’ images and tweets on their websites; some are even using the material in their advertising campaigns.
Real Time Damage Control
If a hotel guest is dissatisfied, he or she can easily complain on Facebook, Twitter, Yelp or TripAdvisior. Hoteliers must be able to quickly respond. Engaging with customers and responding to their needs through these public forums help maintain positive guest relations and drive future bookings.
Unique Perks
With so many brands to choose from, properties need to find a way to stand out. Some are offering free daily wine tastings in their lobbies or bars; some are incorporating sophisticated informational screens in bathroom mirrors; and others are giving away curated set lists of downloadable music.
Sri Lanka becoming one of the most favored destination for overseas visitors, rapid development of the tourism and hospitality industry in Asia and the Middle east the opportunities for trained and skilled hospitality professionals are unlimited.
If you have the passion to be a hospitality industry professional Australasian Academy of Hospitality, the first All Australian Owned institution can help you. AAH offers wide range of courses leading up to a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management with Paid internships in leading hotels in Sri Lanka, UAE, Singapore and Australia.
For more information and enrolments please call 0761 390 240 or 0766 895 896