Why Hospitality Operators Need Better Networking

Hey everyone,

I want to share a quick story. I often find myself at networking events, feeling lost in the crowd. I've struggled to meet someone new until one person steps in – a friendly face who beckons you over, breaks the ice, or simply includes you in a conversation. That single moment can change everything. (Shout out to Christian M. from Tenzo - Restaurant PerformanceOps for doing this at an event last month!)

I’ve seen how hard it is to invest time and energy in networking, especially early in your career. In large branded organisations, there’s almost an unspoken rule – don’t fraternise with the enemy. You get so wrapped up in internal processes and company culture that stepping outside your four-wall bubble seems risky. On the other hand, in smaller operations, the pace is so frantic that you barely have time to catch your breath, let alone make the effort to connect with others after hours!

For those of us in hospitality operations – whether you’re managing a hotel, running busy restaurants or managing a group of whatever – we’re all in the same boat. The industry is demanding and competitive and often leaves us feeling isolated in our day-to-day challenges. And yet, meaningful networking can offer a lifeline, opening doors to new ideas, partnerships, and opportunities.

Here’s why we need a better networking model for hospitality operations:

• ?? Networking isn’t just for the super senior: Whether you're an AM, GM, Area Manager, or Ops Director, every level has the potential to enrich its network, learn from one another, and reap the benefits of shared experiences and insights.
• ?? Unexpected doors can open: I’ve seen firsthand how networking has led to at least four job opportunities for me, including the chance to start my own business. A simple conversation can lead to breakthrough ideas or a solution to a challenge you’ve been grappling with in your operations.
• ?? Networking is scary – and that’s okay. Let’s be real – putting yourself out there is daunting. But with the right support and structure, we can turn that fear into a fun, productive experience. Think of it as fine-tuning your operational strategy – a bit of planning and a friendly nudge can make all the difference.
• ?? Enough of being sold to: We’re all fed up with events that feel like extended sales pitches. We deserve gatherings where the focus is on sharing genuine experiences, exchanging practical advice, and building relationships that help us all thrive.

In the fast-paced world of hospitality operations, every minute counts. We need networking events that are efficient, enjoyable, and directly relevant to our day-to-day challenges. Imagine events where:

• Real, down-to-earth conversations replace slick marketing pitches.
• Every attendee – whether you're juggling bottles or bookings – feels that your voice matters.
• The event structure is designed to ease the awkwardness of networking, making it as straightforward as tackling your daily operational challenges.

At Ops Club, we’re committed to building that kind of community.?

We’re focused on creating a space where you can talk about the highs and lows of operations without feeling judged or sold to. It’s about fostering genuine connections that can lead to fresh ideas, improved practices, and new opportunities to boost you and your business.

I’m excited about the potential of a networking model that truly understands the demands of hospitality operations. Let’s break down the barriers, ditch the “them versus us” mindset, and build a supportive community where we all succeed together.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on how we can make networking not just easier but also fun and impactful for everyone in our field. Lmk in the comments!

?? Join Ops Club: ops-club.com today ??