The Hospitality Show 2024 in San Antonio last month was a vibrant gathering of industry leaders, where innovative ideas and personal stories intertwined to inspire and motivate attendees. The event celebrated excellence in hotel management and underscored the importance of teamwork, culture and resilience while facing the ever-present industry challenges.
I had the pleasure of attending many of the sessions throughout the week and wanted to share some of my takeaways.
Honoring Hands-On Leadership
One of the standout moments was the recognition of this year's best general managers, all of whom shared a common trait: they are deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of their hotels. These hands-on GMs exemplified the power of collaboration, working side by side with their associates. Their commitment to fostering a supportive environment contributes significantly to their hotels’ success, reinforcing the idea that leadership is most effective when it’s grounded in teamwork.
Creativity in Crisis: Lessons from José Andrés
The keynote by renowned chef José Andrés highlighted the vital role of creativity during emergencies, particularly through his work with World Central Kitchen. Andrés emphasized that quick and innovative responses can make all the difference when disaster strikes. The faster you get people fed and taken care of, the faster the community can recover, and the faster that they may be able to come back to work at a hotel or local business. He also acknowledged the hospitality industry’s willingness to lend a hand during crises, offering hotels as temporary shelters and kitchens. This spirit of generosity is a testament to the core values of hospitality.
Building a Strong Hotel Culture
Another significant takeaway came from the “Wealthy Franchise” keynote, where the focus was on the culture within a hotel. The speaker, Scott Greenberg, stressed that the difference between successful and failing franchises lies in the environment created for employees. It’s not just about perks like birthday cards, but about fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect among staff and management. A positive culture encourages associates to engage fully, contributing to the overall success of the hotel.
Passion and Respect: Erin Andrews’ Journey
Erin Andrews, the renowned sports broadcaster, delivered a powerful message about passion in the workplace. Her journey in a predominantly male industry required her to be open to new opportunities—saying yes to challenges that helped her gain respect from coaches, players and peers in the sports industry.
Andrews spoke about the importance of collaboration and respect in her work environment, highlighting the mutual support among colleagues. Her anecdote about quickly notifying a player’s family during a critical moment showcased her commitment and the trust she built within her profession, by going above and beyond—doing things that are not part of your job but that build trust.
Andrews also expressed gratitude for the hospitality she experiences while traveling, acknowledging how hotel staff play a role in alleviating stress from her demanding career. This reflection reinforced the essential connection between hospitality professionals and their guests, underscoring the impact of attentive service.
Key Takeaways from The Hospitality Show 2024
The messages from these influential speakers converged on several key themes:
- Be Passionate About Your Job: Genuine enthusiasm can drive personal and professional growth.
- Think Outside the Box: Creativity is essential, especially in challenging situations.
- Cultivate a Positive Work Culture: A respectful and inclusive environment fosters employee loyalty and success.
- Embrace Opportunities: Saying yes to new challenges can lead to advancement and learning.
The Hospitality Show 2024 served as a reminder that the heart of the industry lies in people—both guests and associates. By embodying these principles, hospitality leaders can not only navigate challenges but also inspire their teams to thrive.
The Hospitality Show 2025 will take place Oct. 26-28 in Denver. For more information, visit thehospitalityshow.com.