Videos

Anyone has the potential if this is the industry they want to come into, and here hotel managers and hospitality industry HR directors give their tips for any student or graduate looking to start their career in the leisure and tourism sector. You need to be passionate, you need to love people, food, you need a smile! You need to be passionate about the hospitality industry, have a smile and a happy nature, with a flexible and can-do attitude. Be bubbly and upbeat  I hate anything depressing: I cant do thisI cant do that That automatically rings alarm bells in your interview or application as I think, what else cant you do?! Many roles are naturally customer facing so you need to show you can offer good customer service with a bright personality. Paramount in my mind is flexibility and a genuine interest in people. First of all Id advise and developing an interest in the area you want to go into, if you contact the actual employer establishments they are probably more than happy to talk to you about whats available. To get a career in this sector I would advise to brush up on the hotel, get as much information as you can. Theres nothing worse than being in interview and you ask have you been to the website? and they confess they havent. Apply in writing, make sure youre application form is full and complete, with a covering letter that details what particular areas you are interested in; the hours and days that you are available to work. You need to be realistic: hotels are 24-7, 365 days a year so be realistic on your application form. As an employer, I usually make up mind within the first five minutes of the job interview. Be smartly dress, and sit properly.I tend to look for people with a sense of fun. When you deal with certain colleagues or customers you need a sense of humour to keep you sane. The hospitality industry is so huge that its certainly possible to fast track your career and people pick out the stars. Play to your strengths  whatever youre good at, go for it. Ask questions, get involved, dont just stand around, take an interest and you will get noticed and moved on and up.