Struggling with turnover?

The labor market continues to struggle to fill the open positions.  This isn't only in hospitality but in a number of industries.  Did workers just get to a point of where they are saying it's not worth it?  Who are these individuals not working or not returning to the work post pandemic?  How many really decided to retire early?  Did increasing concerns with immigration have anything to do with it?  Did eVerify requirements cause those previously grandfathered in to look for work in other areas or industries? 

There are a lot of questions as to how it happened.  There are a lot of suggestions as to the reason or cause.  At the end of the day, it happened. 

25 years ago, the industry looked a lot different.  There were unspoken benefits of comp'd rooms, huge family discounts, or meals to give unbiased feedback on the dinner special.  It was a way of bragging without bragging.  "Oh yes, they comped the room..." was not rare then.  Telling a friend, "Oh they took care of your parking..." is happening less and less now. 

Hotel jobs are not as coveted as they once were.  Similarly, flight attendant jobs were previously hard to come by.  There was an allure to the industries.  Once touted as a way to get to meet celebrities, see the latest food trends, or experience unique architecture...now is overshadowed by the vision of dealing with rude guests and uncomfortable situations.  Videos of these industry workers often trend as they deal with the nastiest of customers. 

This doesn't seem to be a trend across the world but certainly more in the US.  Internationally hospitality is still seen as a fun, cool, and exciting as ever. Several countries allow work visas to allow international students to come stateside and gain hands on experiences through internships.  Madison Hospitality Consultants can help putting you in touch with some of these placement agencies. 

There are several types of work visas.  We work primarily with J1 visas.  These programs can be more cost effective than you might think.  It's truly a win/win situation for those that take the time to develop a strong curriculum.  Several of these agencies also have templates or customizable programs you can adjust for your property.  Often by spending 4 months to a year in the US working in hotels, can give those individuals a serious leg up in their home countries and not just due to the exchange rates. 

While it can be tough to form close bonds and relationships with interns knowing that before you know it, they will have to go home.  The feeling of accomplishment, that you have provided them a great, educational experience, and competitive advantage can really be worth it.  Almost every international intern I've encountered has been extremely professional and gracious.  Interns tend to be more punctual and have overall better attendance.  Who doesn't want that and an individual with unwavering positivity in their workplace?!?!  Associates often rally behind interns, engage and learn their culture adding to the team mentality and giving perspective to the other workers.

There are other added benefits too.  By composing a comprehensive internship program that truly helps educate and make the intern feel welcomed, you are laying down a great foundation for future success.  Getting the staff and managers in the repetition of training, training, training helps them become experts quicker and takes away a lot of the nerves of working in a new location.  It helps shape your company's culture to being one of openness, tolerance, and diversity.  Often one of the top five reasons employees leave their job is lack of training.  By constantly training and looking at development as a necessity not a luxury, you will see a more engaged team and take away a huge reason for people leaving the workplace.   

Reach out to us via the contact@madisonhospitalityconsultants.com for more information or to set up a quick commitment-free consultation.