Humber Addresses Best Practices for Recruiting Talent At Choice Hotels Canada's Regional Meeting

On September 19, Humber was invited to speak at Choice Hotels Canada’s Regional Meeting hosted at The Globe & Mail Centre – Toronto.

The panel discussion focused on pertinent issues affecting the hospitality industry; namely, recruitment and retention in a competitive labour market.

Kristy Adams, Program Coordinator, Hospitality – Hotel and Restaurant Operations Management was asked to address best practices in finding, recruiting and hiring talent, in particular Hospitality graduates for the hotel market. Adams encouraged hoteliers to build their brand and hotel awareness by getting involved with post-secondary institutions. Activities such as guest speaking, attending career fairs, industry networking and alumni events as well as hosting field trips and enrolling in the work integrated learning placements were presented as tried, tested and true initiatives that inspire and entice graduates.

In addition, Adams suggested that hotels consider creative recruitment initiatives: “We are seeing our graduates enticed with signing bonuses for those difficult to fill positions” stated Adams. Hoteliers were urged to become centres for learning and experiences in order to be employers of choice. “Funds should be devoted to onboarding and training so that new hires feel valued and understand the company culture.”