Working as a hotel manager requires that you have strong communications skills, the ability to work well with others and good problem solving skills. A general manager or operations manager is an individual responsible for the daily operations of the hotel, but you may also see jobs for shift managers available, which refer to those who only work during certain hours or shifts throughout the day. Many larger chains also have district and regional managers who are responsible for keeping an eye on all the properties located within a region or district.
Where do Managers Work?
When most people think of hotels, they think of the larger chains that they see in cities around the world. While those chains do hire managers, managers can also work for a number of independently operated hotels and other types of lodging companies. Bed and breakfasts, motels, resorts and inns all need managers capable of keeping guests satisfied and comfortable and working with employees. The skills that you learn in a management degree program and on the job can also assist you in working for a conference center or in other hospitality fields.
What is the Expected Salary and Future Prospects?
According to the Bureau or Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for a lodging manager is $46,810 per year or $22.50 per hour. As this is the median wage, it means that the top 10 percent and bottom 10 percent of managers can earn significantly more or less. They often work long hours and may need to work late at night or on holidays. The BLS also reports that this field will experience almost no change in terms of available jobs by 2022 and that the field will add less than 1,000 new positions.
What do They do?
Hotel managers handle administrative tasks and other tasks in a hotel setting. A hotel manager will meet with unhappy guests and take steps to make them happier about their stays, but they also handle problems that arise between employees. They create the weekly schedule that shows each employee when he or she works, finds new workers to fill in when someone calls in sick and keeps enough workers on hand to staff the hotel. Managers also keep track of the inventory in the hotel, including housekeeping supplies, front desk supplies and linens and appliances for each room. They might arrange for the linens to go out for cleaning or for routine maintenance around the property.
How to Become a Manager
If you want to become a manager, you generally need a degree in hospitality management or hotel management. Many of the accredited programs in the country have an interactive component that requires students to work at a local hotel for at least one semester. Many hotels also look at the experience that you have, including any jobs you had in the past that required management and leadership skills. More than 20 states in the country also have certification programs available for those interested in working as a lodging manager.
Lodging managers ensure that guests are happy and that employees do their jobs effectively. They take care of complaints from guests, order new supplies for the hotel and hire workers capable of doing smaller and specialized tasks. To become a hotel manager, enroll in a hospitality management degree program to gain the necessary education and experience.