Debunking Workforce Myths Of The Hospitality Industry

In this 21^st century, the global economy is highly dependent and driven by three major industries, one of which is the tourism industry (for the curious, IT/telecoms and financial services are the other two).

With Singapore ranked as one of most visited countries by tourists last year, the tourism industry contributed over US$17.02 billion to the economy.

The hospitality industry works hand in hand with tourism and both industries are responsible for creating diversified opportunities across diverse sectors from hotel/cruise, to food and beverage (F&B), as well as airline and travel agencies.

Despite the great progress made in the hospitality industry, there are always myths and misconceptions that linger and must be debunked in order to continue to attract bright young talent to develop even further.

Myth 1: Technology will take over jobs

Over the past few years, technology improvements have been a key driver for increased productivity because it has the potential to improve and alter the way we undertake manual jobs and drive efficiency.

Hotels, for example have deployed automated luggage collection and delivery to speed up the check-in process. Such technology improves efficiency, boosts an organisation's productivity and assists with streamlining certain internal processes, especially when the industry is experiencing labour shortages and the domestic talent pool is aging or unwilling to undertake manual jobs.

Such improvements will not be able to replace employees who provide the personalised experience that most travelers expect.

The hospitality industry is one that requires human connection and touch. Technology can handle manual work, freeing employees to perform more important tasks such as providing more personalised services to guests.

This results in increased job satisfaction as well as better customer service experiences. Truly a win-win situation.