The New Urban Professional: Changing Tastes in Service and Design
I find it fascinating to watch the changing tastes of both individual and corporate guests in recent years; it is clear that there has been a steep increase in the number of young professionals that choose to seek out a unique travel experience, and choose a hotel that reflects their taste and individuality.
These guests are also willing to spend more to be a guest in a hotel that is eco-friendly, offers unique style and new services, and has restaurants offering a changing menu that is aligned with a healthy lifestyle. The rise of boutique hotels through the 90’s is expected to continue and to increase rapidly, and many corporations involved in the hotel industry are moving into this new direction with their own new brand of boutique hotels.
A New Face in Corporate Culture
I have been involved in the hospitality industry for over 36 years, and I see this as one of the most interesting changes in the hospitality business and culture; many new and successful businesses have an innovative approach to management – you won’t find them in suits and ties! These young professionals demand the best in service, design and originality when travelling or arranging meetings.
In the past, many people chose the familiar, corporate style hotel, either in their personal travel or for a business destination, but this trend is quickly shifting. The new face of corporate culture has an entirely different set of needs in their travel choices. They seek out properties that are in sync with their personal taste and style.
Hotel executives that are involved in developing, managing and creating a successful brand of boutique hotels have different challenges; staying one step ahead, and providing fresh style and service at every level requires skills beyond older style hotel management models. My hotel executive search firm is currently heavily involved in assisting to find the best candidates for executives for boutique hotel management.
Watching a new brand of boutique hotel become successful and to stay at the forefront is an exciting part of what we do at Bentley Price Associates, Inc. It takes innovative ideas, new approaches to service, and impeccable taste to provide the level of service that is expected by a growing breed of young professionals. Establishing your niche and gaining loyalty for your new brand could not be more critical during this period of change and expansion. Our hotel recruiting team is engaged in seeking out the best of the best in hotel management for this shift in the hospitality industry.
Your feedback is always welcome, and I invite you to contact our hotel executive recruiting firm or contact me personally.