The UK hospitality industry is currently faced with a rising challenge: attracting young talent. Recent survey findings by Harri show only 5% of British college leavers are considering a career in hospitality. Combine this dwindling interest with 170,000 sector vacancies, and therein lies a potentially problematic future survival of UK hospitality.
However, to address the issue, we need to dive into the why – over half of the survey respondents saw hospitality as a temporary job, rather than a sector for long-term investment. Why? Along with a belief the sector does “not offer career progression”, other reasons identified included the search for better pay, working hours, earning potential, and wanting a less stressful career.
As a recent addition to the board of trustees for the La Salle Hotel School, I’m actively advocating for change. Encouraging more young people into the industry is something all hospitality professionals can play an active role in. Furthermore, it’s something one tool can help us with.
Tech is a powerful ally in reshaping the perception of the hospitality industry and addressing the concerns of young job seekers. By integrating advanced technology, we can modernise the workplace, streamline operations, and create a more appealing work environment for younger generations.
Tech Solutions That Hospitality Workers Want
Harri’s survey also revealed that most hospitality workers are keen on more advanced tech solutions. Digital clock-in and clock-out systems that were once considered cutting-edge are now just the basics. Today’s hospitality workers are looking for more sophisticated tech solutions to make their jobs easier and more efficient. They want mobile apps that let them manage their schedules, track tasks, and communicate instantly with their teams. They’re also interested in AI-powered inventory systems that can predict stock needs and automated reservation systems that simplify bookings.
Real-time feedback and performance analytics are high on their wish list too, helping them to continuously improve their skills. By embracing these advanced tech solutions, the hospitality industry can meet the modern expectations of its workforce and boost overall efficiency and job satisfaction.
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How to Use Tech to Improve Hospitality’s Appeal to Younger People
Apps for Workforce Management
Let’s be honest – nobody likes to feel like they’re being closely monitored when they’re at work. Rather than adding extra pressure to recruits (and extra time to the day of hospitality managers), why not rely on tech to help young people with task management. Venue management software like iVvy enables users to manage their daily schedule, and easily communicate with managers and other team members by sharing real-time updates. By empowering team members with the tools to self-manage, you foster a sense of autonomy and trust.
Let’s not gloss over the fact that young people are always on their phones, so having mobile-friendly solutions is a must. Mobile apps for scheduling, task management, and internal communication make it easier for staff to stay updated and manage their responsibilities on the go. This flexibility is particularly attractive to younger workers who value convenience and efficiency.
E-Learning and Development Platforms
Gone are the days of printed documents, awkward role plays and dated training videos. E-learning platforms can significantly enhance the appeal of the hospitality industry to young recruits. These platforms offer tailored courses on essential industry topics like safety, compliance, and customer service, helping new hires quickly adapt to workplace standards.
It’s not just about accessibility – the diversity of interactive and engaging digital content like quizzes and simulations make for a more enjoyable learning experience, keeping new recruits engaged and interested. The flexibility to access training materials anytime and anywhere aligns with young people's preference for digital solutions and work-life balance.
For managers, real-time progress tracking allows for all employees to be supported effectively, while up-to-date content keeps everyone informed of the latest best industry practices.
Flexible Remote Work Options
Offering remote work options for certain roles can significantly attract younger workers looking for career flexibility. With advancements in technology, many tasks in the hospitality industry, such as administrative work, customer service support, and marketing, can be effectively managed remotely. By providing the necessary digital tools and accessible platforms, employees can perform their duties from anywhere, maintaining productivity while enjoying a better work-life balance.
This flexibility appeals to younger workers and expands your talent pool, attracting candidates who may otherwise require remote working arrangements. Remote work options can also lead to increased job satisfaction and retention, as employees appreciate the trust and autonomy granted by their employer.
Tech-Enhanced Workspaces
Creating modern, tech-enhanced workspaces can really boost the appeal of the hospitality industry for younger generations. Imagine having workspaces equipped with high-speed internet, collaborative tools like video conferencing software, and smart devices that make everything run smoothly.
Think about using tablets for order taking, digital check-in systems, and smart room controls for accommodation and event spaces. These tech-enhanced environments not only make operations more efficient but also foster a collaborative and innovative atmosphere that encourages teamwork and creativity. By investing in cutting-edge technology, hospitality venues can position themselves as forward-thinking and attractive workplaces for young professionals who are used to (and expect) modern tech in their daily lives.
Balancing Hospi-Tech with a Human Touch
Let's not forget the importance of maintaining a human connection at work. Sure, the younger generation loves tech-savvy solutions both in and out of the workplace, but face-to-face engagement is still so important. We don't want to turn our workplace into a robot zone. Instead, let's focus on using tech to empower our team members. This means reducing workloads, improving task management, and helping everyone stay on top of the latest hospitality practices. It's all about finding that sweet spot between tech and a personal touch.