Whether guests are at hotel for a getaway, visiting family, or on a business trip, they rely on it to be a trustworthy and welcoming second home. The employees, from hotel managers to waitstaff, are the face of the company, representing the values of the brand. In an industry driven by customer satisfaction and personal interaction, hiring the right people is crucial.

As travel booms, hospitality businesses must do what they can to meet increased staffing needs while navigating current staffing shortage, all while maintaining quality service.

Here’s how you can scale up hospitality hiring effectively, ensuring your team is ready to deliver top-notch guest experiences.

1. Focus on Employee Retention

As a hospitality hiring surge approaches, it’s crucial to prioritize retaining your core staff. Keeping your main positions filled ensures that your operations run smoothly, even as you bring on extra help. Attempting to hire for core and temporary positions simultaneously can stretch your resources thin, potentially compromising guest satisfaction and your brand reputation. By maintaining a stable foundation, you allow new hires to integrate seamlessly into your existing team without disruption. Consider offering increased incentives, flexible scheduling, and clear paths for advancement to keep your experienced employees engaged and loyal, especially during busy seasons.

2. Improve the Candidate Experience

The onboarding process sets the tone for your new hires’ experience with your company. A streamlined and efficient onboarding process not only leaves a positive first impression but also energizes new employees, making them eager to start and perform highly their roles. To enhance the candidate experience, implement mobile-responsive features like SMS notifications and easy-access support.

When your candidates feel valued and prepared from day one, they’re more likely to contribute positively and stick around longer-term.

3. Accelerated Hiring with Technological Innovation

During hiring surges, quickly bringing on new hires is essential to keeping up with demand. To stay competitive, leverage technological innovations that streamline the hiring process. Utilizing advanced tools, such as AI-driven applicant tracking systems, help to quickly sort through candidates and identify the best fits. Social medica platforms, internal networks, and employee referrals can also speed up the search for talent.

Additionally, integrating automated background checks and digital onboarding platforms can further reduce time-to-hire, ensuring you secure top candidates before they move on to other opportunities. By embracing technology, you can hire quickly and effectively, keeping your team strong during the busiest times of the year.

4. Enhance the Background Screening Process

In the hustle to fill positions, don’t overlook the importance of a robust background screening process. A comprehensive screening program tailored to the hospitality industry can give you confidence in your hiring decisions. From verifying work history to conducting criminal background checks, an end-to-end screening solution helps to ensure you’re hiring trustworthy and capable staff. This not only protects your guests and brand reputation, but also contributes to a more secure and efficient workplace.

By focusing on retention, enhancing the candidate’s experience, accelerating the hiring process safely, and strengthening your background screening efforts, you can navigate the any hiring surge with confidence. These strategies will help you build a reliable, enthusiastic team that can handle the demands of the season, ensuring your guests receive the best possible service, making your hotel their trusted home away from home.