Recruiting in Hospitality, Tips to Attract and Hire Top Talent

Posted on 04/20 by Erin Helms

The hospitality industry is competitive. Recruiting during a tight job market makes things even more challenging. Finding and keeping top talent in the hospitality industry is getting more difficult. However, you use strategies to recruit the best in the industry successfully. Go after candidates who want a nontraditional schedule, highlight your work culture and the fabulous perks of the hospitality industry, or consider a referral program or changing your compensation model. You can successfully recruit top talent for the hospitality industry.

Seek Out Candidates Who Desire Nontraditional Schedules

Weekends, nights, seasonal, and irregular shifts are standard in the hospitality industry. The best way to attract candidates willing to work these nontraditional hours is to focus on job seekers looking for a nontraditional schedule. You might consider a summer break teacher or a college student who needs to work weekends or nights. Remember also that retirees like part-time jobs and seek them more than younger workers.

Emphasize Your Work Culture

Although pay is still the No. 1 priority, a great culture is attractive when candidates evaluate options. Those in the hospitality industry want to be part of a company culture that supports and values them. Take steps now to create an attractive culture. You can highlight your culture during in-person hiring events and job descriptions. Highlight any perks you offer and articulate your vision, mission and philosophy.

Use the Excellent Perks of the Hospitality Industry

Your industry has a considerable advantage when it comes to offering perks. The hospitality industry can offer employees and their families VIP experiences in restaurants and hotels where they work, along with food and lodging discounts. A free meal during a shift can go a long way. These perks can benefit your company too. It saves your company from paying traditional employment taxes since discounts are nonpayroll compensation.

Employee Referral Program

An active employee referral program reduces the cost and time of employee recruitment. Employee-referred job candidates typically are a great culture fit, leading to less turnover. Social comradery among hospitality workers is an excellent resource for engaging employees in an active referral program. Offer cash bonuses, additional paid time off or professional development.

Change Your Compensation Model

It is standard for hospitality employers nationwide to increase wages to attract and retain workers, particularly during peak seasons. Competition is fierce, so consider an alternate, more sustainable compensation model. A salaried front-of-house staff can help to bring in talent who provide a better customer experience. A better experience equals more referrals and returning customers. Other positions can enjoy profit sharing or bonuses for meeting business goals. LaborMAX has top hospitality job candidates ready to work for you now.

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