Challenges in Online Training for the Hospitality Industry

John Hollywood MIH is an experienced manager in the luxury hotel industry and currently serves as the Head of Learning & Development at Iconic Luxury Hotels, which includes properties such as Chewton Glen, Cliveden House, The Lygon Arms, 11 Cadogan Gardens, and The Mayfair Townhouse. He is also an Academician of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts. With a strong background in Food & Beverage, Operations Management, and Hotel Management, John possesses extensive expertise in senior management roles. He is highly skilled in Learning and Development, with a particular passion for training and mentoring. Based in Wallasey, England, John Hollywood has a broad professional network with over 500 connections.

What Are Some Of The Recent Challenges And Trends In Online Training For The Hospitality Industry?

Online training provides flexibility and addresses workplace difficulties such as time limits. It enables people to train on their commute, at home, during breaks, or even on the job. Bite-sized training modules are especially useful in addressing time constraints. However, the operational responsibilities of luxury hotels, along with high client expectations, make finding time for training challenging for personnel. While online training tools are readily available, finding the time to devote to learning is a huge obstacle. Due to regulatory constraints and the related costs, it is not viable to John Hollywood MIH expect employees to complete training outside of work hours. As a result, incorporating training into daily routines, such as briefings or departmental meetings, can provide opportunities for learning while maintaining productivity. Innovative strategies, such as putting training content on displays in common locations or adding subliminal learning methods, can also improve training efficacy. Time restrictions continue to be a major concern for luxury hotels in the United Kingdom.

What are some of your recent project initiatives?

Our internal leadership program has proved to be highly effective in developing and promoting talented individuals within our organization, making it one of our most significant initiatives. We also have two internal management initiatives, one of which is designed specifically for department heads seeking advancement within the company. However, the program that has received the most attention, particularly in view of the challenges posed by Covid-19, is our leadership program with an internal focus. Each cohort comprises of fifteen to twenty participants who serve as assistant department heads or supervisors in our five properties. Over the course of five to six months, these individuals are exposed to a comprehensive curriculum that includes modules on team management, personal branding, financial management, and leadership skills, among others. By investing in the growth and development of these individuals, we have witnessed a significant increase in internal promotions, effectively establishing a talent pool for positions in upper management. This strategy not only reduces our recruitment expenses, but also fosters employee loyalty in an industry notorious for high turnover. Our program has consistently produced exceptional leaders who advance from supervisory positions to deputy general manager or even general manager positions, guaranteeing the continued success of our renowned luxury hotels.

Artificial intelligence (AI) integration is anticipated to cause significant changes in the online training sector in the future. Larger and more extensive systems will likely be developed as a result of major corporations and conglomerates acquiring smaller online training businesses. Personalization will be a major emphasis, extending beyond preferences for learning styles to examine the psychological profiles of specific students. Data about learners will be gathered by AI, including information on the best periods for learning, such as the mornings or nights, and variables like exercise habits or daily schedules that can effect learning. With this level of personalisation, AI will be able to suggest for each person particular learning schedules and techniques that will maximize their retention and efficiency. Online activity, social media, and personal preferences are just a few of the sources that may be used to collect data for personalization. However, the extent of customisation and reliance on data may give rise to worries about measurement techniques and privacy. In general, personalized learning experiences will become increasingly prevalent in online training as AI technology is used to create these experiences.

What Would Be Your Piece Of Advice For Budding Professionals In The Feild?

In light of the challenges posed by Covid and the changing dynamics, it is essential to comprehend what managers anticipate from the organization and what the organization expects of them. The alignment between the company’s expectations and the capabilities of its administrators is crucial. Additionally, areas such as team management, finances, operations, and personal branding require consideration. By ensuring alignment and addressing these factors, the organization as a whole will benefit. It is essential to reevaluate obsolete models and comprehend the evolving requirements and skills required at this level, such as strong operational and financial acumen, as well as people management and employee well-being skills. By recognizing and meeting these expectations, businesses can encourage employee retention and establish a firm foundation for future growth.