Here's how you can acquire the most valuable skills for a career in hotel operations.

"Learning is not a destination but a Constant Journey" We all Learn in time as long as we are receptive to the teachings of the world I started my journey Into this wonderful in the year of 2002, I joined my hotel Management College and enrolled for the BHM Course (4 Year Degree Course). For This I had to move out of Goa my home town to Mangalore a City i had never visited before. Out of my Comfort Zone And Into a foreign land ,there was a tremendous shift in all the aspects of life The moral here is to be Open Minded in Your aprroch to all Experiences "We Can Learn Something from Everything "

Skill and talent are distinct, yet closely related. Those with talent may develop skills more easily, and those with skills can tap into talent. However, it’s crucial to recognize the difference. No matter your career path, success starts with cultivating a strong attitude and moral compass—your inner qualities. These inner traits shape how you achieve your goals. Once your inner foundation is set, focus on utilizing and refining your existing skills—the outer aspect. The goal is to continuously leverage and enhance these skills through lifelong learning, particularly in digitalization, to stay competitive and relevant in an evolving world.

To acquire the most valuable skills for a career in hotel operations, start by gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions in various departments of a hotel. Seek opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and take on additional responsibilities to broaden your skillset. Invest in formal education or specialized training programs related to hospitality management, customer service, and business operations. Stay updated on industry trends and best practices through continuous learning and professional development activities. Finally, cultivate strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills to excel in the dynamic and fast-paced environment of hotel operations.

The only way to really learn hotel operations is with on the job training. I was fortunate to have completed an in service training program that included working in all departments of the hotel and completing studies and exams over 6 weeks each year for 4 years. If this type of program is not available to you I would then seek an entry level position and share with your manager and HR that you have a desire to learn more about hotel operations and understand each departments roles and duties. When it’s not busy or when business allows, perhaps you can request job shadowing and or to help in other departments to get exposure. Understanding the ‘screws and bolts’ will be valuable no matter what position you end up pursuing in the industry.

Take the time to learn each position within the organization. Not just a quick overview, but a deep dive and understanding of each position. This not only brings on a greater respect for the team, but provides valuable insight into the business operations. Be intrigued by things you do not know or understand. Research, ask questions and learn at every opportunity. Ask to be shown how and ask why certain functions are important. When you understand why a task is completed a certain way, you can learn and grow. It may also spark new ideas! Never be afraid to learn from an employee. Remember, they do this day in and day out. You can learn so much! Hands on experience is the best way to acquire more skills and knowledge!

"Service Of The Gods" "There is a part In all of us that Belongs to the devine" "I have learnt that we need to put our Customers up there with the Gods" . The goal of every service Person is to be of service in the best possible way, going beyond the requirement, has become a norm in the hospitality industry, and it is expected in all ways and form. hence knowing the time to do more is of utmost importance "Go the Extra Mile When Your Guest Need It"

There are two things I have seen have a profound impact on someone's customer service skills. The first one is the experience of having worked in businesses catering to different types of people. The second one is travelling to places clearly different from "home". The common denominator is interacting with a variety of people. It shows you that different people like to be treated in different ways. Something that seems polite to one person could appear rude to another.

AI " Assisted Intelligence " With the creation of Data, Stats & Trends Come an Era which has surpassed the industrial Revolution, Todays Guest Delight is Based on accuracy of delivery and also the the ease of convenience. Better Quality with ever more personalization is expected through continuous engagements with preferred Brands. AI will Sync all relevant Information to high light Preferences of individuals to create a Unique experience for the customer every time for the first time. "AI is A Part Of us"

Computer literacy has been an invaluable skill in hotel operations for a very long time now. Managing bookings, finances or marketing campaigns all involve tech. This becomes more important as time goes by, and is very often discussed at hotel conferences. New technology keeps being developed and using (or not using) it to its full potential has an incredible effect on the success of the business.

Simple way is to dot down the items that have major differences, keep an eye when receiving those items, make sure the units of ordering and receipt is right, check the last few receipts, it usually happens items were not loaded in the container for whatever reasons or might come in the following truck, once the receiving is confirmed with the right unit rest all is internal which can be a wrong issue or a theft sometimes which can easily be tracked and action taken accordingly. Put responsible persons during loading in the right places so items are not misplaced or land up in the Wrong stores on in wrong hands. Once the ordering and receiving is right then rest be assured things will fall in place, lower Inventory levels

"Money Matters" The Goal of every organization is to grow. For this it need a constant inflow of revenue to take care of the operating Cost,Future Investments and Maintenance. Resources Should be the priority. To create the desired product which will have value for money and a uniqueness to stay ahead. Market trends need to be Scrutinized diligently to capitalize on opportunities which are on the horizon 'Value For Money will get you all the Honey"

"Lead from The Front " "The Team you Have will determine Your Success Choose Wisely" As a leader create a team that is Happy. a happy Team will keep your guest happy. And happy guest will always return for more Happiness. As a leader Be equipped with The skill sets which need to be monitored, De Escalate stressful and challenging Situations, "Be The Calmer Of The Seas "

Leadership is the capacity to translate a vision into reality. Your growth will show how effective is your team and how efficient you are as a leader.

Hotel industry is unique in itself as its human - product - deliverable intensive within very short or finite time line Success with happiness is possible only if one has latent passion for it Ego under feet and walk the shop floors is the credo for sustained success all the while having an eye for detail In this industry one sees ‘ best of person or worst of person (s) ‘ and could be all on same day. One needs to be straight faced thinker cum quick decision maker all the while retain respect, sensibilities of parties involved and entity itself All round knowledge of all departments of a hotel helps gain respect of team members as one gains experience No two moments nor two days are the same. Learn to be self motivated at all times

Becoming a customer of a company you aspire to work for can provide invaluable insights into their service offerings and operational processes. By experiencing their services firsthand, you can gain a deeper understanding of their customer journey, identify areas for improvement, and assess their strengths and weaknesses. This immersive approach allows you to appreciate the company's culture, values, and commitment to customer satisfaction from a unique perspective. Additionally, engaging with their products or services as a customer can help you align your skills and experiences with their specific needs, making you a more informed and strategic candidate when pursuing opportunities within the organization.