Today, September 1st, marks a special day in the hospitality industry – National Hotel Employee Day, a day to honor and recognize the nearly two million individuals who contribute their dedication and service to the thriving world of hotels and lodging.
Established in 2022 through the collaborative efforts of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and the National Day Calendar, National Hotel Employee Day is a yearly observance that sheds light on the invaluable contributions made by hotel employees nationwide.
With more than 62,500 hotels dotting the landscape of America’s hospitality sector, these establishments serve as significant pillars of the national economy, generating 8.3 million jobs and offering wages totaling over $104 billion in 2022 alone.
As we celebrate National Hotel Employee Day this year, the backdrop is one of unprecedented opportunity and growth. According to insights from Indeed, hotel establishments, ranging from quaint inns to luxurious resorts, are racing to fill around 100,000 vacant positions. To lure prospective talent into the fold, hotels are raising the bar by offering historically high wages, enhanced benefits, and unmatched flexibility, marking a turning point in the industry’s approach to workforce satisfaction.
However, the journey ahead is not without its hurdles. The current climate has more than 80 per cent of hotels grappling with staffing shortages, with 26 per cent reporting severe understaffing, as revealed by an AHLA-conducted survey of hoteliers. One of the most pressing needs is in the housekeeping sector, where 40 per cent of respondents identified it as the top hiring priority.
The intertwined factors of the ongoing staffing challenges and an upswing in summer travel demand have created a remarkable period of professional growth within the hospitality sector. Hotel employees are enjoying an average hourly wage exceeding $23.00, and the benefits and flexibility hotels offer have reached unprecedented levels.
AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers encapsulated the significance of National Hotel Employee Day aptly, stating, “Employees are the lifeblood of every hotel, and we created National Hotel Employee Day to help thank America’s nearly two million hotel professionals for their incredible service and dedication.”
He continued, “From wedding receptions to family reunions and vacations, our workforce helps create some of Americans’ most important memories. And with hotel pay, benefits, flexibility, and upward mobility all at near-historic levels, there’s never been a better time to start a hotel career.”
Amidst the backdrop of National Hotel Employee Day, individuals across the nation are encouraged to explore the vast array of opportunities that the hotel industry presents. The AHLA offers a comprehensive platform, www.thehotelindustry.com, dedicated to showcasing career prospects and aiding in the job search process.
Furthermore, those interested in understanding more about the significance of National Hotel Employee Day can visit www.ahla.com/day to learn about the impact that this special day has on recognizing the efforts and accomplishments of hospitality professionals.
In conclusion, National Hotel Employee Day serves as a powerful reminder of the role that dedicated hotel employees play in creating memorable experiences for guests while contributing significantly to the economy. As the industry continues to evolve, these professionals remain the heart and soul of the hospitality sector, driving its growth and success forward.
Do you have any industry knowledge, experience, or news you’d like to share? Why not send us your press releases, survey results, news, and articles? We will review them and may publish them on the IHS website Just complete the contact form and get in touch.