Working in the hospitality industry can be pretty demanding. Customers can be very rude and demotivating. A single mistake can bring down the rating of your restaurant (and get you fired). A tiny bug in the hotel app can mean thousands of stranded tourists across the globe struggling to book a room for tonight. Hint: IT team won’t be going home for a few days.
However, working in the industry also comes with plenty of rewards. In fact, it is overall much more rewarding and satisfying than most other industries. Of course, where you work matters a lot.
Perks and benefits of working at a hotel.
Lately, the hospitality industry has experienced a significant shift in the way it approaches employee benefits. Gone are the days when hotel employees were solely focused on earning a paycheck. Today, hotels are realizing that by providing their employees with enticing perks and benefits, they can attract top talent and create a positive work environment that fosters loyalty and productivity.
Let’s take a look at some of the more common benefits one can expect as an employee of a hotel.
Complimentary stays for employees.
One of the most sought-after benefits for hotel employees is undoubtedly the opportunity to enjoy free or heavily discounted stays. e.g., Hyatt offers its employees up to 12 complimentary nights at its hotels worldwide every year.
At the risk of sounding like a MasterCard commercial, I would say that taking your family on a luxurious vacation without worrying about accommodation expenses is priceless.
This perk not only allows employees to experience the very essence of hospitality firsthand, but also helps them create lasting memories with their loved ones.
Imagine being able to maintain a healthy work-life balance, thanks to your work.
Discounted stays for self, family, and friends.
The discounted rates offered to hotel employees are extremely popular among employees, their friends, and family members. These highly discounted prices make it possible for not only employees but also their loved ones to enjoy affordable stays.
Most hotels don’t even require the employee to be among the guests when using friends and family rates.
The Hilton Go Program is the front-runner in providing these incredible discounts for personal trips of employees, friends, and family.
Dining benefits.
Imagine having access to exclusive culinary experiences and being able to savor mouthwatering dishes prepared by renowned chefs. Every single day at work.
Our corporate culinary team created healthy menus for colleague dining rooms using the same principles applied to our hotel restaurant menus, which focus on healthy people, a healthy planet and healthy communities. — Hyatt Employees Policy
Numerous hotels provide their employees with complimentary or discounted access to on-site or sister property restaurants. This may even include popular restaurants that require reservations several days in advance.
Retire from work, not the perks.
Marriott offers a fascinating perk to its long-term employees. Those who have worked for the company for 25 years or more are granted lifelong benefits of complimentary nights and discounted rates, even after leaving or retiring from the company. This is the perfect lifetime membership that any frequent flyer would desire.
You can read more about Marriott Employee discounts and perks here.
Industry benefit.
If you are employed by a hotel, your business card may provide you with complimentary meals, room upgrades, and additional perks, even at hotels belonging to different companies. It is not a guaranteed benefit or an official partnership, but it frequently occurs. Your position and level of seniority will also influence the extent of these privileges.
A chance to explore the world.
Working in the hotel industry provides numerous opportunities to explore different parts of the world. These opportunities include internal transfers to international locations, educational programs, training in various regions, attending global conferences, and receiving performance incentives. While the extent of these possibilities may vary based on factors such as seniority and team dynamics, the hotel industry generally offers more chances to explore the world compared to other industries.
Conclusion
It is evident that hotel employees’ benefits are changing everything within the industry. These perks not only attract top talent but also create a positive work environment, improve work-life balance, and foster loyalty among staff members. Hotels that prioritize employee benefits will undoubtedly reap the rewards of higher job satisfaction, improved guest experiences, and a thriving workforce.
