Führungskräfte im Gastgewerbe reflektieren ihre Karriereerfahrungen und Wachstumstipps

“Find a mentor. Early in my career, I underestimated the value of having someone to guide me. A good mentor will also challenge you to see the bigger picture. If you find someone whose career you admire, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions. Their insights will accelerate your growth more than you realise.

Learn what other departments do. It’s easy to stay focused on your own responsibilities, but understanding how other departments operate gives you a competitive edge. Knowing how revenue management, marketing, and operations work together helps you see how decisions impact the entire business.

Get involved in the industry and give back. Networking is about building relationships and contributing to the industry. Joining local hospitality groups like HSMAI will connect you and sharpen your expertise.

Be the first one in and the last one out. It’s not about clocking hours. It’s about showing dedication and willingness to go the extra mile. The best opportunities often come to those who show up consistently and put in the effort.

If it gets too easy, you’ve stopped learning. Growth happens when you’re uncomfortable. If the job feels too routine, seek out challenges. Take on projects that push your limits and require new skills. The discomfort is where real growth happens.”

“If I could give advice to my younger self entering the workforce, it would be this: nothing can stop you if you truly believe in your idea and its potential. Don’t be afraid to take risks or challenge the norm. Innovation is about action, and sometimes that means stepping out of your comfort zone.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned that the best opportunities often come when you least expect them. If you have a great idea and you believe there’s a need for it, go for it, even if the path is unclear or others doubt you. It’s not always about having all the answers at the start, but about having the determination and resilience to figure it out along the way.

For example, when we launched Villa Tracker, it was an innovative concept that connected travel professionals with property managers and homeowners. At first, it felt risky, and there were plenty of unknowns. But by staying committed to the vision and pushing through the challenges, we made it work. If we hadn’t believed in the idea, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

Another piece of advice: never doubt yourself. Imposter syndrome can be overwhelming, especially early in your career, but you have the skills, experience, and drive to succeed. Focus on your growth, be open to learning, and surround yourself with people who encourage and challenge you. With time, you’ll see how much you’ve learned and how far you’ve come.

Finally, take calculated risks. You’ll make mistakes, and that’s okay! Every mistake is a lesson that moves you closer to success. Keep pushing forward, trust your instincts, and remember: if there’s a will, there’s a way.”

“I would tell myself to know my worth and not be afraid to ask for what I want. As a young starter, even more so as a woman, it can be hard to assert yourself and have the confidence to know when it’s the right time to speak up. As a young woman, I would always go with-the-flow rather than throw my hat in the ring, as I was scared that I would be perceived as too pushy or ambitious.

Even if you don’t get what you want right away – by sharing your aspirations with management, it makes them more aware of your goals. If you prove yourself to be an invaluable team member, a good manager will help you find the right opportunities that align with your goals; whether it’s working on an account you’re really passionate about, getting exposure to a part of the business that you’re interested in growing into, or asking for that well-deserved promotion or pay rise.”

“If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be this: start building your network from day one, and never stop. Especially in hospitality, relationships are the real currency.

Master the art of online networking. LinkedIn isn’t just a digital resume; it’s a 24/7 global cocktail party where you can connect, contribute, and learn from the best. I post every single day on LinkedIn, and let me tell you, the results have been game-changing. From building relationships across the globe to becoming part-owners in an influencer platform, all roads lead back to one thing: real relationships built online.

Your personal brand matters. Like, yesterday-level urgency. Start showing up. Share your wins, your lessons, your journey. Position yourself as the trusted voice in your space, not tomorrow, but today.

And don’t wait until you “have enough experience.” You already have something valuable: your perspective. Lean into it.

So, to my younger self (and maybe yours too):

• Be visible.
• Be valuable.
• Be vocal.
• Hospitality is about people; make sure they know who you are and what value you can bring to the table. Make yourself the prize.”

“Early in your career, take note of what you are actually learning. Sometimes you need to move on sooner than later if you are not getting your cup filled as you should still be growing exponentially when you are younger.

Also, take more self assessments. I was not very self aware when I was younger and I think taking more DISC/Enneagram/StrengthFinder analyses would have helped my communication and direction.”

“If I were embarking on a career in the hospitality industry today, I would adhere to the following strategic principles:

• Establish a Foundational Understanding in a Large-Scale Environment: Begin by gaining experience within a reputable, branded hotel with a significant room inventory (at least 100 rooms). This provides invaluable exposure to established operational procedures and standardised practices.
• Cultivate a Culture of Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Embrace a growth mindset, actively seeking out training opportunities and prioritising continuous learning. Given the rapid evolution of the industry, developing the capacity to learn and adapt is paramount.
• Avoid Professional Stagnation: While a large-scale environment offers a strong foundation, avoid prolonged tenure that may lead to departmental specialisation and limited exposure to broader operational aspects.
• Transition to an Independent Property for Experiential Learning: Seek opportunities within independent hotels, where you can apply acquired knowledge, experiment with innovative strategies, and operate outside the constraints of brand guidelines. This environment fosters creativity and encourages the testing of established norms. Critically evaluate the outcomes of these experiments to refine your approach.”
• Recognise the Necessity of Lateral and Vertical Mobility: Understand that career advancement and salary increases often necessitate strategic movement between roles and organisations.
• Prioritise Digital Proficiency: Focus on developing expertise in digital technologies, recognising their central role in the future of hospitality.
• Commit to Annual Skill Development: Dedicate yourself to mastering a new skill or area of expertise each year to maintain professional relevance.
• Build a Network of Mentors and Advocates: Cultivate relationships with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support.
• Develop Comprehensive Expertise in Revenue Management, Sales, and Marketing: Acquire a thorough understanding of these interconnected disciplines, as they are essential for future leadership roles.
• Maintain a Passion for the Industry: Embrace the challenges and rewards of the hospitality sector, ensuring that your work remains enjoyable and fulfilling.”