87% of hoteliers continue to struggle with major staffing issues, according to a recent survey conducted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA). Following a period of massive layoffs during the pandemic, a surge of open positions in the hospitality business have emerged and hoteliers are feeling the pressure to enhance their employment offering in order to stay competitive with other hotel employers.
One of the most challenging positions to fill (and keep filled) is at the front desk—the most critical customer touchpoint of any hotel. This is also one of the lowest paid positions, and most hoteliers lack the budgetary wiggle room to offer above-average rates in today’s recovering economy.