It’s graduation season! In a time when eager young professionals are wrapping up their college education, we’re once again reminded of how limited their opportunities are in our current job economy. There used to be an expectation that if you went to college and earned your degree, that you were essentially guaranteed a job in your field of study. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case. The unemployment rate for recent college grads has dropped over the years, but 50% of all employed college grads are employed through unskilled positions. The hospitality industry is one that can help fix this problem; particularly in tourist states like Colorado. Our industry is thriving and we have an opportunity to help change this curve!
Hospitality programs are growing in popularity at universities across the country. These programs dedicate 4 years of a student’s life to learning, practicing and understanding the hospitality industry inside and out. Not only do these programs give you a pool of qualified individuals to employ at your organization, but these individuals have committed to your industry and will do whatever they can to thrive and succeed.
So much goes into creating a successful hotel and it can be hard to define what makes them successful. One thing we know that works is having employees that are willing to go the extra mile for guests. “Hospitality students knew almost instinctually that the cornerstone to the hotel business is building a relationship with the guest.” Because hospitality students have dedicated so much of their lives to this industry, it comes as no surprise that they are the ones on the front lines with a big smile ready to help with whatever your guests may need. Employees like this are the ones that create a memorable experience for your guests.
Don’t delay; strong students will get picked up quickly! Of course, it can’t hurt to hire them before they graduate, giving you an advantageous position to promote them as you see fitting with their experience and learning.
Checkout our website for a list of local hospitality students that have been actively involved with the CHLA and are eager to work and learn in our wonderful industry! If you’re a student, we also host a job bank on our website of local Colorado hospitality positions that our members are eager to fill!
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Source:
Colorado Hotel and Lodging Association Blog 