Exclusive Interview | Tapan Kumar Sahu, Executive Housekeeper, Mina Hotel and Residences, Doha
/“Work with international brands in your home country: Gaining experience with renowned international hotel brands within your home country can provide valuable exposure to global standards, operations, and career development opportunities. It can serve as a steppingstone towards working abroad in the future.”
Tell us about your journey. How did it all start?
My journey in the hospitality industry began with IHM, Bhubaneswar, but Industrial training at Taj Residency, Vishakhapatnam provided me with a strong starting point towards my hospitality goal. It’s a great feeling to see how my career progressed from being a room attendant to an Executive housekeeper with various national and international hotel groups. My dedication and passion for hospitality have clearly played a significant role in my career advancement.
What do you think it takes to succeed in this industry?
There is not a guaranteed formula for success, certain ingredients can contribute to achieving success in the hospitality industry. Here are some key elements.
1. Eye for details: Paying close attention to the little things can make a big difference in providing exceptional service and creating memorable experiences for guests.
2. Will do and will deliver attitude: Having a proactive and positive mindset, being willing to go the extra mile, and consistently meeting or exceeding expectations are traits that can help you stand out in the industry.
3. Allocation of resources to enhance productivity: Efficiently managing resources, whether it’s time, personnel, or materials, can lead to improved productivity and smooth operations within a hospitality setting.
4. Understanding guest needs and providing a quality atmosphere: Recognizing and fulfilling the needs of guests is crucial. Creating a welcoming, comfortable, and high-quality environment can enhance their overall experience and satisfaction.
Share with us 5 skills that you think will be critical for a hospitality career in the future.
Hospitality skills play a vital role in various roles within the industry. Here are some additional skills:
1. Sustainability and environmental awareness: In today’s world, being conscious of sustainability and environmental impact is highly valued. Incorporating sustainable practices and promoting environmental awareness can contribute to the overall reputation and success of a hospitality establishment.
2. Professionalism: Maintaining a professional demeanor, being courteous, and demonstrating integrity in your interactions with guests and colleagues is crucial in creating a positive and trustworthy atmosphere.
3. Multitasking: The ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently and effectively is often necessary in the fast-paced hospitality industry. Being organized and adaptable helps ensure that guests’ needs are met promptly.
4. Positivity: A positive attitude can make a significant difference in guest experiences and team dynamics. Being friendly, approachable, and enthusiastic can create a welcoming environment and leave a lasting impression on guests.
5. Teamwork: Collaboration and effective communication with colleagues are essential for smooth operations and providing exceptional guest service. Working well in a team fosters a positive work environment and enhances overall productivity.
What are the attributes you look for while selecting or hiring?
1-Qualification and skill
2-Adaptability and learning agility
3-Work ethics
4-Possitiveness
5-Can do attitude
What is your favorite interview question & why?
My favorite question towards candidate-
‘What are the strategies that you implemented to ensure environmental sustainability?’
Reason to asked this.
The response of the candidate will indicate their responsibility towards society and awareness about the environmental issue.
Share some of your secrets in keeping an engaged, safe and happy team.
1-Clear communication
2-Apreciation and recognition
3-Path to grow
4-Training and development
5-Work life balance
6-Pleasent atmosphere to work
What is the one app / tech solution you would love to see?
While there are several apps and websites available for guests to provide feedback and reviews about hotels, it’s true that there may not be as many platforms specifically designed for hoteliers to receive feedback. However, the hospitality industry is constantly evolving, and there’s always a possibility for new developments.
It’s a great idea to have a dedicated app or website where hoteliers can receive feedback from guests, industry professionals, or other stakeholders. Such a platform could provide valuable insights for hotels to improve their operations, service quality, and overall guest satisfaction.
Indian hospitality professionals are very keen to work abroad. What advice would you give them?
My advice for Indian hospitality professionals aspiring to work abroad,
1. Networking and building connections: Actively participate in hospitality industry events, conferences, and online platforms like LinkedIn. Building a strong professional network can open doors to international opportunities and provide valuable insights and advice from industry experts.
2. Enhance a foreign language: Having proficiency in an additional language, especially one commonly used in your desired destination, can significantly enhance your chances of securing a job abroad. It showcases your adaptability and willingness to communicate effectively with international guests and colleagues.
3. Work with international brands in your home country: Gaining experience with renowned international hotel brands within your home country can provide valuable exposure to global standards, operations, and career development opportunities. It can serve as a steppingstone towards working abroad in the future.
