Build a high-flying career in hospitality

Congratulations Sekhar, on joining Institute of Hotel Management, one of the premier institutes in India. If one wishes to be a smiling face, dressed up in classy suits and sarees, surrounded by gorgeous décor, architectural ingenuity, exotic locales, gourmet cuisine, fancy gyms, swimming pools and spas, yet constantly meeting new people and getting paid for it handsomely, one has landed the right career. 

As the world gets smaller and more connected, we are witnessing a spike in tourists and business travellers year after year. This has pushed the hospitality industry i.e. hotel and tourism industry to grow rapidly. Capitalising on this, the hospitality industry is witnessing large corporates like Hyatt and Hilton as well as our own Saravana Bhavan and Anjappar jumping into creating chains in India and overseas. 

Even late entrants like Junior Kuppanna and Murugan Idly Kadai are joining the race. Thanks to the culture of dining out, partying and travelling, that has become second nature to us, the hospitality industry has turned into a highly employable sector.

The qualities expected are patience, excellent communication skills and self-discipline. Be friendly and polite. Build on an ability to work under stress. Don’t forget that it demands you to work at odd hours. 

The industry presents a platter of opportunities after completing your studies. Work in any existing hotel or start your own. Be a consultant or teach. The demand for manpower in this industry offers choices such as restaurant manager, personnel management, catering manager, housekeeping, food and beverages services, stock management, front office operations, customer relations, event manager, fast food chain manager and more. 

You have options to work in various environments like clubs, hotels and restaurants, hospitals, airlines, guest houses, cruise ships, forest lodges, banks, armed forces and railways. Self-employment is also a good option, provided you have the requisite experience and a sound business plan. 

There are several specialised courses if you are aiming high. They can help upgrade your profile. Postgraduate studies in hospitality and event management, human resources, luxury brand management or international hospitality management are attractive areas that would see you climbing higher. Do study further if it benefits your qualification. But this is an industry that respects experience more than degrees. You can undertake some studies while working in order to enhance your career. You gain both experience and bring in new skills with your education. Very few opt for higher studies, as the job opportunities at lower levels are high. More than 85% are employed right away. 

If you desire for international exposure, then think of Switzerland, five out of top 10 hospitality schools are in this country. Hospitality is all about making people happy and comfortable.