Cultivating the Executive Leaders of Tomorrow

In the hospitality industry, interns are seen as future leaders — and how we engage with them today directly influences their development, long-term commitment to the sector, and the reputation of our hotel.

So, How Should We Approach Interns?

1. Warm Welcome & Introduction
Start with a friendly orientation. Share the hotel’s values, mission, and culture. Help them understand your departments and introduce them to team members.

2. Mentorship & Support
Assign each intern a mentor. Create a safe space for questions, continuous feedback, and support. Help them identify their areas for growth.

3. Responsibility & Autonomy
Give interns tasks that match their skills. Trust them. Let them take initiative. Celebrate their successes and contributions.

4. Learning & Development
Provide comprehensive training on hotel operations. Offer opportunities to build professional skills and encourage participation in industry events.

5. Fairness & Respect
Treat interns with the same fairness and respect as your full-time staff. Make them feel like a valued part of the team. Avoid any form of discrimination or mistreatment.

Orientation, Training & Career Retention

Orientation
Provide clear information about hotel policies, working hours, dress codes, and safety procedures. Explain interns’ rights and responsibilities.

Training
Deliver department-specific and hands-on training. Provide access to resources that help them stay updated with industry trends.

Career Retention
Introduce potential career paths in hospitality. Support their professional goals. Offer job opportunities to high-performing interns after graduation. Include them in hotel events and projects. At the end of the internship, provide reference letters or certificates of participation.

Positive Impact

✔️ Contributes to interns’ professional development
✔️ Trains the next generation of hotel talent
✔️ Strengthens your hotel’s reputation
✔️ Turns interns into brand ambassadors

Potential Risks

✘ Lack of support may demotivate interns
✘ Negative experiences may drive them away from the industry
✘ The hotel’s reputation may suffer

Remember:

Interns are the future of the hospitality industry.
Investing in them benefits both your hotel and the industry at large.

Managers and team members should recognize generational differences, learning styles, and motivational drivers to create meaningful, productive internship experiences.

How do you engage interns in your hotel? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments below!

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