By Margaret Heffernan: Assessing the qualities and actions of 111 chief executives, a pattern emerged. Because narcissists crave attention, they often work hard to achieve glory. That often gets them into positions of power and influence. Once they get there, however, they still need attention and applause.

By Megan Sullivan: Finding the perfect hotel-restaurant match involves soul searching, “first dates,” compromise, and trust, in order to build a healthy and successful business relationship.

By Miranda Dobson: Hoteliers in London could suffer from a post-Olympic slump, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers’ survey of European city hotels. A slowdown in the hotel business was predicted across Europe, and PwC said no cities on the continent would reach double-digit growth.

By Li Yuting: Promoted under the subtitle of "Design Experience, Build Brand," the third international Design Hotel Forum was recently held at The Peninsula Shanghai and offered attendees an intriguing insight into a rising industry. Design hotels share common themes with boutique hotels and luxury hotels, but also have completely unique elements.

By Dr. John Hogan: Success does not come automatically to the start-up or to a brand that has been around for 50 or more years.  Success does not automatically come to a hospitality business operating only in the local, regional or international market place.  Success is achieved by those individuals and companies with a vision, finding a way to make their plan a reality and then enjoying the journey as they work and play to their goal’s destination.

The hotel industry may be a people-centric business at heart, but using technology in the right way can help raise productivity while enhancing the work environment for employees. The Rendezvous Grand Hotel is doing just that to tackle some of the issues that hoteliers are facing in an ever-changing industry, while still recognising the importance of its staff.

Marriott is offering a choice of flexible work and meeting space easy to find and simple to reserve, just like a hotel room. Workspace on Demand is a new service being tested among hotels primarily in the Washington, DC and San Francisco areas. People can book small meeting space, as well as lobby seating areas and communal tables to work, meet, connect and collaborate.

By Robin Amster: Pent-up demand, a strengthening economy and the growing popularity of experiential travel should make 2013 a year of opportunity in the tour sector, favoring tour firms, travel sellers and their clients. Early indicators suggest that 2013 could bring a return to pre-recession levels.

By Rochelle Olson: A hotel guest who repeatedly refuses housekeeping services. A room paid for in cash, or a guest who doesn't bring luggage. An older man checking in with a younger girl who looks disheveled or frightened. All of these are of possible tip-offs to juvenile sex trafficking.

By Pat Brans: Here are 12 time management habits for the new year. Tailor these as you like, but whatever you do, work on one each week using Benjamin Franklin’s method.