Our terminology has become more contentious as we compose, frame and wage our efforts for consumer awareness and recognition of our various brands. In the last several years, we have had the "Bed Wars"; then we moved into the "Amenities War", ever ramping up our escalation of strategies and tactics to remain competitive or take the lead. Next, we had a "cooling off" period (also called a recession), where we just tried to survive and maintain our scant resources. Now, quite healthy, we are looking at the "experiential", surely a stealth movement.
We denounce the "guerilla" tendencies of organized labor; we pour millions into "reconstruction" — more lodging options — new hotels, renovated or converted properties. We surgically strike using our political capital to crush global movements which threaten some standardization of product and service in our businesses. And, we debate in every forum available our position(s) on immigration, wages and health care, perhaps not understanding that this audience represents the very face of hospitality, in many cases, our ambassadors and associates.
The beneficiaries should be the consumer, the hospitality businesses which perform, and the elevated stature of excellence across the board. But, the messages and actions have become blurred and the objectives less than decisive and distinctive. Are we just shooting ourselves in the foot – again and again?
Offensives always begin with the politicians, those we have elected/hired to represent our best interests. Nationally, those are the members of congress, and they are doing a horrible job, mostly self-serving and scared of shadows. In hospitality, those politicians would be the executives of the International, National, State and Local Lodging and Restaurant Associations, Convention and Visitor Bureaus, and Chambers of Commerce. Naturally, they call upon the generals and senior officers for status, statistics, analysis and counsel. This corps is usually composed of flag company executives, hotel/restaurant management companies and REITs. Everyone else is the "foot soldier", responding, as best they can, to the mission.
At some point, the players, at whichever level, must assess the campaign – those in the field questioning the generals, the generals tasking the leadership, and leadership recognizing the challenges and responding accordingly. Everyone has the obligation and responsibility to voice concern and demand accountability. If one chooses to remain silent, they have acquiesced and must ride the current tide. Oh, you silent majority.
Many in the Industry are doing a flat out wonderful job. Some destination marketing organizations are expert at rallying their troops, soliciting opinions, being inclusive, action and results oriented. The same can be said for many trade and professional associations. Some corporate entities have absolutely forged the way to enhance the guest experience. And, in every community we have individual contributors, who run thoughtful and inspiring businesses.
But, what about the poor consumer, who watches all of our machinations, is perhaps influenced by our marketing, confused when they see our standings in terms of wages paid and industry/staff turnover, and disappointed when they are tempted to the Hospitality landscape? Have we granted them "refugee status"? All they want is value for the price, expectations met as advertised, and, preferably a memorable experience rather than a host of surprises. Our employees watch too, as their wages are punctuated with shorter/split shifts and their employers seeking all sorts of avenues to deny benefits under the new health care legislation. In some instances, we have lost the battles, compromised the war, and wasted the whole enchilada. We can do better!
About The Author
John Hendrie, the consultant/owner of Hospitality Performance, has taken a hard look at the HR discipline. He knows it; he has worked it. Now, he has formulated his thoughts and recommendations as a collaborative author in a new, must read E-book, called Good Book of Business. He and other experts share their expertise on topics from marketing to finance to operations. A must read for any businessman or woman! Buy it and become enlightened. Click here to see a sample chapter.
Authors contact
John R. Hendrie
Phone: 978-346-4367
Email: jhendrie@hospitalityperformance.com
Hospitality Performance, Inc.
http://www.hospitalityperformance.com
40 East Main Street
USA – Merrimac, MA 01860
Phone: 978-346-4367
Email: jhendrie@hospitalityperformance.com
