Hospitality Begins with Hiring: Treating Candidates Like Guests to Elevate Hospitality

In the hospitality industry, our guest’s experience is what makes us who we are. We prioritize attentiveness, respect, and service for every guest. Are we applying those same priorities to our hiring process? Today’s candidates aren’t just looking for a paycheck; they’re looking at every experience in their candidate journey to decide if a company truly aligns with their values. Treating candidates like we treat our guests would enhance our industry brand and attract the kind of talent that truly makes a difference.

Every interaction a candidate has in the hiring process impacts how they view our industry. A candidate who experiences warmth, respect, and professionalism from the first interaction is likely to begin a job with a positive outlook and a strong commitment to that same level of service for the guests. Likewise, a rough or disconnected hiring process can leave a lasting bad impression—especially for those who don’t join the team. In an industry where reputation matters, and candidates move from hotel to hotel creating a stellar candidate experience helps to stand out amongst the crowd.

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What Treating Candidates Like Guests Really Means

Communication and Follow-Up

Just as our guest’s value transparent communication, candidates appreciate it too. Providing updates, responding to inquiries, and outlining next steps builds trust and keeps candidates engaged. Just like the care we take when a guest has a request or complaint—timely, informative responses make candidates feel valued and respected.

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A Welcoming, Personal Touch

When a guest arrives at our hotel, the goal is to make them feel at home. During the interview process, a personal touch, such as using their name, recognizing their individual achievements, demonstrates that we view them as individuals, not just applicants.

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Respect for Their Time

In hospitality, we know that time is valuable. Just as a delayed check-in can sour a guest’s experience, a disorganized hiring process can frustrate candidates. Streamlining interviews, sticking to schedules, and giving prompt feedback respects their time and reflects the value you will have for them if they join your team.

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Transparency and Honesty

We are an industry that should pride ourselves on delivering honest, quality service to guests, and the same should go for candidates. Sharing the realities of the role, company culture, and potential growth opportunities establishes a foundation that candidates can trust and grow with. It’s better to present an accurate picture than to have a candidate start a role they’re unprepared for, this is the main culprit for turnover in the first 90 days.

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Our industry is notorious for high turnover, a competitive talent market, and increased employee expectations are reshaping the realities of hiring. Candidates today seek purpose-driven work and a company culture that resonates with their values. A candidate experience that mirrors the hospitality offered to guests helps attract qualified and genuinely invested candidates. When we build relationships and offer positive experiences from the very first interaction, we set the groundwork for how they will ultimately treat guests.?

A welcoming, respectful hiring experience aligns with what true hospitality is and it demonstrates a commitment to people—guests and employees. In an industry built on service, the example of what hospitality is should start long before the first day of work.