Essential soft skills for careers in hotel management and tourism industry

The tourism industry is one of the largest employers in many countries, capable to absorb professionals from different walks of life. In the tourism and hotel management industry, there are chauffeurs, chefs, laundry and cleaning specialists, security specialists, accountants, pool and bar managers, waiters, customer service representatives, and many more professionals from different professional classes.

If you are hoping to get a job in this industry, there are certain soft skills you need to learn to increase your chances. Even if you are already working in tourism, acquiring soft skills will open up new development opportunities for you. Here are some vital soft skills to bear in mind.

Customer service skills

Most people do not work at the customer service desk and you may not work there either, but it is erroneous to believe that only customer service representatives need this skill. Whether you work at a restaurant, hotel, coffee shop, or even a zoo, you need to learn smart ways to interact with customers. Besides, you also need to learn how to meet the needs of customers who ask for your help. Knowing what the customer wants even before (s)he even opens his/her mouth is a good way to start.

Communication skills

This skill is required in every industry, especially in hotel management and tourism. Effective communication is just as important as the quality of your service. You will meet people from different backgrounds, races and countries as global tourism is quite fluid with people moving from one country to another in search of fun and excitement. You need to learn how to interact with them in a comforting and understandable manner.

Networking skills

Networking in hotel management and tourism is very important. You want not only new customers, but also repeat customers. In fact, repeat customers are a sign that your business is doing well. While new customers expand your customer base, the return of previous customers stabilizes your business. It is also an indication that your model is working quite well. There are so many ways you can network. This can be as simple as taking phone numbers, emails and/or other personal information of customers and sending them alerts about special offers and discounts. Sending them your best wishes on their birthdays is another way to make them feel appreciated.

Language skills

If you want to be successful in hotel management, it will pay off to learn the language spoken by many of the customers that patronize your business. If you live or work in a place many Chinese people visit, learning to speak Chinese will endear you to some customers. If you work at a spa with lots of German visitors, it is not a bad idea to learn a few words of German. Speaking the language of your guest is one of the most effective ways to build an intimate relationship with them. This skill is highly valued and employers place an emphasis on multilingual job applicants.

Organizational skills

Organizational skills are no less important. It is worth being organized in this industry. Most often, the requirements of your boss or your clients may justify the need for multitasking to meet their needs. Preparing tasks ahead of time is important, as is the ability to organize, network and communicate.

Conclusion

Improving your soft skills so as to increase your chances of climbing the ladder of success in the tourism industry is not a difficult task. All you need is the right application and the willingness to master one or more of the skills discussed in this article. If you wish to gain employment in the industry, mastering these skills is a sure way to increase your employability.