Career Strategies with the “Career Coach”
Chris · July 10, 2007
Many hoteliers start their careers in smaller properties and later decide to try to move to a bigger house. The transition can be difficult for some, but the greater challenge is often trying to convince human resource professionals that you will be successful in the more complex role. Today’s viewer-submitted career question for Susan Strayer tackles exactly this issue:
Question: I used to be a General Manager at a small size budget hotel for 3 years. Also, I have a strong education background. Since I’m still young, I want to move to bigger properties for my my future. However, it seems that all management positions at 4 or 5 stars hotel require experience in same size properties. My experience seems not to be valid to apply for management positions. My question is where I should start?
Answer: Property size and class are among some of the qualities that make hotels so different. And understandably so, properties will want you to have experience that matches the demands of customers you will be serving and the size of the property you will be working in every day.
However, it doesn’t mean that the experience requirements will prevent you from growing your career. Understand that a bigger and more complex property may mean a larger degree of responsibility than you are used to at a property that is of a different class. Thus, your best bet is to get a foot in the door at one of those properties—perhaps take a step back or take a position that is a step lower.
Oftentimes the best career trajectories aren’t the straight ones. You should also expand your networking circle. Do you have a mentor? Who do you know who works at the properties you are interested in that can help you learn what it takes and give you advice and guidance? Don’t just think about where you want to go next, think about who can help you get there!
Have a Question for Susan? Ask The Career Coach!
Susan Strayer, SPHR, is Director of Talent Management for one of the world’s leading hotel chains. Susan has over ten years of experience in human resources, recruiting and career development. She has worked with numerous Fortune 500 companies, thousands of coaching clients and is the author of two books. Her latest, The Right Job Right Now: A Complete Tool-Kit For Finding the Perfect Career (www.therightjobrightnow.com), is a complete end-to-end job search and career guide.
