So you think you could do a better job as a hotel manager than Basil Fawlty? Well, it wouldn't be difficult. The best hotel managers, like wicketkeepers and football referees, are – unlike Basil – inconspicuous. That's because most things are worked at behind the scenes to achieve the smooth-running establishment you hope your guests will see. Guests have usually either come to your hotel for business or pleasure – either way, they want you to provide a relaxed environment to take the hassle out of their stay. Of course, the job varies enormously between the small, family-run hotels and the big hotels, which can see different managers for specific departments, ie, catering, administrative, etc.
Who can I work for?
B&Bs, country clubs, hostels, budget hotels, inns, motels, large chain motels and small, independent hotels.
Where and when can I work?
Anywhere and everywhere. The hours can be fixed, but are usually shift-based and often open-ended. You'll have to work weekends, nights and public holidays. Some hotels can offer fixed hours, but don't bank on it – especially if it's YOUR hotel!
What can I earn?
Reputable large hotels can offer you £100,000-plus-a-year. Scaling down, luxury hotel managers can command £50,000-£60,000. An experienced manager in less grand premises earn £25,000-£30,000 and new starters can expect to get £17,000. Everything depends on the size and the standing of the individual hotel.
What are the benefits?
The contentment of seeing people having a satisfying stay. The satisfaction and kudos of the knowledge that your hotel has a good standing in your locality. Busy but ultimately rewarding.
Are there chances of promotion?
Hotel management skills can lead to careers paths in advertising, retail and finance. Or you may branch into health clubs or restaurants. Ambitious, experienced managers often aspire to open their own hotel.
What will I be responsible for?
Ensuring health and safety and licensing laws, the smooth running of events and catering. Dealing with customer complaints. Monitoring customer feedback and devising ways of getting your hotel more into the public limelight. Making the hotel look and stay attractive on the eye. Managing budgets, managing and disciplining staff. Hiring new recruits and organising marketing campaigns.
What qualifications do I need?
A degree or diploma in management, leisure studies or hospitality is a plus. A few larger hotels will offer graduate training programmes to graduates with at least a 2.2. The Institute of Hospitality offers members numerous chances to further their abilities.
Do I need any experience?
Ask a local hotel if you could do some unpaid work experience or shadow a relevant employee. Managerial experience would give you a head-start, as would first-hand knowledge of the catering and retail industry.
What attributes are needed?
Multi-tasking, sorting problems in a calm and business-like manner while there's all hell being let loose around you! So patience and diplomacy are musts! Self-motivation, a clerical and organisation acumen. Literacy and numeracy skills, ability to motivate others, creativity; good interpersonal skills. A welcoming personality (ie, NOT Basil Fawlty!) is a huge plus.