 Tell us about your journey. How did it all start?

I am Pushpita Ghosh Savant . I come from the Steel City –Rourkela ,Odisa . Completed my hotel management from IIHM affiliated to Edinburgh Napier University – Kolkata and started my Career with Taj Group of hotels .Over the course of 20 years, I embarked on a remarkable journey in the hotel and academic industry starting as a Front office Executive with the Taj Group of hotels and eventually ascending to the Position of Resort Manager heading the Tree of Life Resorts & Spa located in Varanasi. Enhanced my leanings and experiences with being a part of Residency Group, Hilton Group and with IIHM –Goa imparting the experience with the future and enhancing my academic skills. Being a Woman in this field ,I faced unique challenges and opportunities that shaped my career path.

 What do you think it takes to succeed in this industry?

There are many factors which are required to succeed in this industry. Highlighted 4points are :

• Guest feedback & Continuous improvement – Actively seeking guest feedback through online reviews, direct communication ,surveys ,analyze to identify areas of improvement.

• Adaptability and Innovation – This industry been dynamic keeping ahead of trends and changes is crucial.

• Online Presence – In today’s digital age ,establishing strong online presence is essential. Create an appealing and User friendly website that showcases your hotel’s USP. Utilize online booking systems, reviews and rating.

• Competitive pricing – Pricing strategies play a significant role in attracting guest. Monitor competitive rates and adjust your pricing strategies to remain competitive.

 Share with us 5 skills that you think will be critical for a hospitality career in the future.

• Technological Literacy – Technological literate will be crucial. Professionals need to adapt new systems ,software and digital platforms. A strong understanding of emerging technologies and the ability to leverage them effectively will be invaluable.

• Cultural competence- Involves being sensitive and respectful towards diverse cultural backgrounds, customs and preference to guests. Understanding different cultural norms, communication styles and service expectations will lead to delivery of impeccable service.

• Sustainability and Environment awareness – In response to the growing concerns about environment , sustainability and environmental consciousness will be critical skills in the future of hospitality .Professionals who are knowledgeable about sustainable practices,energy efficiency, waste reduction and eco-friendly initiatives will be in high demand.

• Emotional intelligence – As this industry focuses on personalized and experiential services, emotional intelligence will be highly sought after skills. Hospitality professionals need to possess empathy , strong inter personal skills and the ability to connect with guest on emotional levels.

• Adaptability and flexibility – The hospitality industry is known for its fast paced and unpredictable nature .Future hospitality personals need to be adaptable and flexible in order to thrive in dynamic environments which could be open to new challenges, embracing change and quickly adjusting to evolving customer preferences.

 Describe an ideal hospitality professional.

Overall a ideal Hospitality professional is a combination of exceptional interpersonal skills ,customer centricity ,professionalism ,adaptability , and a genuine passion for providing memorable experience to guest. They are the back bone of the industry ensuring that every guest feels valued, respected and well cared for.

 Share some of your secrets in keeping an engaged, safe and happy team.

Foster a Positive Work culture – Simply a supportive work culture where employees feel valued and respected with a scope for open communication from team members.

Recognize and reward achievements – ACKNOWLEDGE and APPRECIATE the hard work and accomplishments of your team members like reward and recognition program, town halls, team celebration weeks , which could be monetary incentives, public recognition or other meaningful reward.

Empower & delegate –Trust your team member and delegate responsibilities effectively. Give them the autonomy to make decisions and take ownership in their work. Empower them to contribute ideas and suggestions.

Provide growth & development opportunities – Invest in the professional development of your team member by offering training program, workshops or career advancement.

Lead by example – Have always believed this. As a leader demonstrate the quality and behaviors you expect from your team. Be approachable , supportive and lead with integrity.

 How do you think AI will impact our industry?

AI is going to have a significant impact on the hospitality industry transforming various aspects of the industry. Here are few:

• Personalized guest experience –AI can analyze vast amounts of customer data ,such as preference booking history ,feedback and create personal experience for guest. Help in customer inquiry ,make recommendations and assist with bookings.

• Efficient operations and cost reduction – AI can optimize various operational processes such as inventory management ,pricing strategies, resource allocation.

• Streamlined check in and check out process – AI can automate and streamline the Check in and Check out process .Self check in Kiosks automated with AI technology can verify guest identities, process payments, provide room keys enhancing operational efficiency .

• Efficient housekeeping and maintenance – AI powered robots can be used for tasks such as cleaning , restocking supplies and delivering items in guest rooms reducing workload on staff and improving work efficiencies.