Careers in Accommodation

RECOMMENDED EDUCATION
A secondary school diploma is preferred. A college diploma in tourism or business management is an asset.
POSSIBLE CAREER PATHS
Front Office/Rooms Division Manager, Housekeeping Director, Rooms Division Executive.
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Small Hotel or Guest House Owner/Operator
OVERVIEW
An owner/operator of a small hotel or guest house business plans, directs and manages all the daily and long-term operations. This position offers the opportunity to work flexible hours and meet new people. Business tasks can often be combined with household tasks (e.g. breakfast for guests can be purchased at the same time as groceries for the household). Ensuring the enjoyment and comfort of guests is the owner/operator's number one priority, and he has the ability to do this creatively in ways that appeal to him.
EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
Experience in tourism is required of a successful small hotel or guest house owner/operator. Organizational skills, marketing, sales and customer service skills, and good communication skills are also necessary. In order to manage the tasks required, administrative skills, accounting and cash control skills and knowledge of business, the sector, industry and locale are mandatory. One must enjoy people and have a tolerance for strangers staying in their home as well. Desired skills for this position include management, leadership, risk management and human resource management skills. Financial management skills and office or business experience are also assets, as would be an ability to speak a second language.
DUTIES
Meet guests' needs related to overnight stays and meals, respond to enquiries and solve problems, offer tourism information and promote local area, use business management skills, use sales and marketing skills, complete financial management tasks, use administrative skills, maintain facility, equipment and supplies.
RECOMMENDED EDUCATION
A college diploma or degree in business, tourism, marketing or hotel management is useful. Training in first aid, food safety and small business management are all assets.