In collaboration with Digital Travel Summit APAC 2023
In today’s highly competitive market with limited staff resources, delivering exceptional guest satisfaction and outstanding customer service is crucial for the success of any hotel business.
This article will explore how senior management can strategize their hotel staff recruitment and training to achieve these goals effectively. We will delve into the case of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) and their innovative approach, The Sampaguita Project, to showcase the importance of a solid and authentic brand of service. Additionally, we will address strategies for managing guest expectations, prioritizing staffing needs, staying competitive in compensation and benefits, maintaining employee morale and motivation, adjusting staffing models, leveraging technology, and overcoming staff challenges to maintain competitiveness.
To manage guest expectations effectively during times of limited-service availability, hotels must focus on proactive communication and authenticity. Being honest and transparent about the current situation while providing exceptional service within available resources can maintain guest satisfaction and loyalty. By fostering trust and creating meaningful connections with guests, hotels can enhance the overall customer experience.
For senior management, it is essential to regularly review and fine-tune staffing strategies to ensure the right people are in the right roles with sufficient resources to achieve business goals effectively. Involving department managers and key associates in decision-making can provide valuable insights into team needs. Leveraging technology to automate repetitive tasks can optimize resource allocation, enabling staff to focus on high-value activities.
Hotels can implement a strong employer branding strategy to attract and retain the best staff, such as Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ “Circle of Happiness.” Demonstrating commitment to diversity and inclusion in recruitment efforts and workplace practices can create an inclusive and equitable environment that appeals to top talent.
Investing in training and professional development programs helps employees enhance their skills and advance their careers, attracting top talent and fostering motivation. Employee recognition programs can boost morale and improve productivity, resulting in engaged, satisfied, and customer-oriented employees.
During challenging times, hotels may need to adjust staffing models and scheduling practices to optimize productivity and maintain employee satisfaction. Changing shift schedules based on peak and off-peak periods and cross-training employees can enhance workforce flexibility and adaptability.
While it is essential to onboard team members quickly, providing continuous learning opportunities and professional development can help team members thrive in their roles in the long run. Developing training materials in advance and onboarding new hires in phases can facilitate a smooth and effective training process.
Embracing technology can optimize hotel operations and empower properties to deliver exceptional customer service. Utilizing CRM systems, data analytics tools, e-commerce platforms, mobile apps, and social media can enhance customer experiences and increase loyalty and growth.
Successful hotels maintain competitiveness by fostering a positive company culture, effective leadership, and a customer-centric approach. Prioritizing customer satisfaction, retaining existing staff, and attracting top talents contribute to overall competitiveness.
In the ever-evolving hospitality industry, senior management is crucial in ensuring guest satisfaction and delivering exceptional customer service. By embracing innovative initiatives like The Sampaguita Project, prioritizing staffing needs, leveraging technology, and prioritizing employee growth and development, hotels can stay competitive and provide meaningful experiences to guests. The upcoming Digital Travel APAC Summit presents an opportunity for industry leaders to gain valuable insights and collaborate, ensuring sustainable growth and success in the dynamic world of hospitality.
Listen to more insights from Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts and Samantha Catabas Manuel, Group Director, Digital Marketing & Reputation Management, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, at Digital Travel APAC Summit.
The Digital Travel APAC Summit offers an immersive experience combining exclusive insights from industry leaders and valuable networking opportunities. Gaining insights from industry leaders helps businesses stay ahead of the competition, navigate challenges, and identify new growth opportunities in the rapidly evolving digital travel landscape. Engaging in meaningful discussions and exchanging knowledge fosters a strong and supportive travel community in the APAC region.
Digital Travel APAC (15-16 August 2023 | Equarius Hotel, Singapore) is the region’s travel event where the ambitious and digitally savvy business leaders and marketing, customer experience, digital transformation and eCommerce heads meet.
As a media partner for the event, travel professionals can enjoy 15% per cent off ticket rates when using the code “EHOTELIER15” to get tickets.
