Emily Ohanian

Cultural sensitivity and diversity are not just values they are necessities in today’s workplace. In the hospitality industry, we work with colleagues and guests from all over the world. Embracing diversity helps us build stronger teams, where different perspectives spark creativity and innovation. Cultural sensitivity in the workplace allows us to communicate with empathy, respect individual values, and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and valued. A diverse and culturally aware team doesn’t just deliver better service it cultivates trust, enhances collaboration, and ensures that every guest interaction reflects true hospitality. The more we respect and celebrate differences, the stronger our workplace culture becomes.

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In hospitality operations, no two days are ever the same. One moment you’re supporting a guest with a special request, the next you’re solving a challenge that no one planned for. That’s the beauty—and the reality—of our industry. What I’ve learned is this: success in operations is not about avoiding problems, but about how quickly and gracefully you can respond to them. ✨ 💡 A few lessons I carry with me every day: • Be present on the floor. You’ll see and feel things reports will never show. • Lead by example. Guests and teams notice your energy before your words. • Stay calm under pressure. The team reflects the leader’s state of mind. • Celebrate small wins. They build the culture that delivers big results. Hospitality is not just a job—it’s a mindset of service, resilience, and continuous learning. 💼🌸 #HospitalityLeadership #OperationsExcellence #GuestExperience #GrowthMindset

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"I found a better opportunity." Translation: I found a leader who values me. Over the years, I’ve coached hundreds of professionals through resignations. What I’ve learned is that the official reason is rarely the real reason. Behind phrases like “better opportunity” or “career growth” lies something much deeper: They don’t feel valued. Their ideas are ignored. Their skills are underutilized. They’ve stopped learning. Nobody simply says thank you. If you want to retain your best people, focus on what truly matters: Listen actively Show appreciation Encourage and apply their ideas Provide flexibility Give meaningful feedback Involve them in decisions Offer growth opportunities Communicate with honesty Trust them to succeed None of these require a large budget—only genuine intention and care. Be the leader you once wished you had. #Leadership #EmployeeEngagement #PeopleFirst #Retention #CompanyCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #FutureOfWork #EmployeeExperience #Motivation #TeamSuccess

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Praise Doesn’t Pay the Rent – Lead with Recognition and Reward Leadership for Hospitality, Lesson 34 In hospitality, we thrive on recognition. A smile, a kind word, a public compliment—it fuels morale. But here’s the truth: praise alone isn’t enough. John C. Maxwell says it plainly: “If you praise them but don’t raise them, it won’t pay their bills.” In luxury hospitality, our colleagues give their hearts to the guest experience. They work long hours, anticipate needs before they're spoken, and often operate in high-stakes moments with grace and warmth. While praise is powerful, leaders must also ensure fairness, growth, and tangible reward. 🔍 When was the last time you: + Matched a team member’s effort with a raise, not just applause? + Backed up recognition with real career progression? + Audited your pay equity and bonus structures? If not recently, it’s time. The best service in the world is delivered by people who feel valued and fairly compensated—not just praised. Let’s not lead with words alone. Let’s lead with action. 👉 Question for You: How do you balance recognition with tangible reward in your leadership approach? #LeadershipForHospitality #MaxwellMoments #LuxuryHospitality #PeopleFirst #MandarinOriental

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Been couple of decades that I have been a Hotelier, worked with plenty of leaders, participated in quite a few of leadership cohorts, listened in and observed some fantastic leaders, MY TAKE AWAYS on effective ways of addressing generational diversity. Embracing Every Generation: Hospitality’s Key to Success The hospitality industry is thriving thanks to the fresh energy of Generation Z alongside the experience of older generations. Gen Z customers and employees—digital natives passionate about sustainability and connection—are reshaping hotels, restaurants, and travel. Yet, true success comes from welcoming guests and staff across all ages. Unique Strengths Across Generations Baby Boomers value personalized service and comfort, Gen X seeks convenience and family-friendly options, Millennials want authentic experiences, and Gen Z prefers tech-savvy, socially responsible choices. On the workforce side, Baby Boomers and Gen X bring mentorship and knowledge, while Millennials and Gen Z offer adaptability and tech skills. Together, they create dynamic teams ready to meet diverse customer needs. Why Balance Matters Focusing only on Gen Z risks missing loyal older guests and experienced staff insights. Ignoring Gen Z means losing touch with emerging trends. Hospitality that balances all generations builds loyalty and fosters a positive workplace culture. Inclusive Experiences and Workplaces Leading brands blend tech conveniences with warm, personalized service. They support all guests and promote inclusive workplaces with training, mentorship, and flexible schedules to meet diverse needs. The Future Is Multigenerational By valuing every generation, hospitality creates richer experiences and stronger teams. This approach ensures the industry remains innovative, welcoming, and successful for years to come. In a world where connection is everything, hospitality’s greatest asset is its ability to care for all generations—turning every visit and every job into an opportunity for joy, growth, and shared success. Arguable? Agreeable? #Be inspired #Be empowered #Be you

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Top Hotel Brands to Work For in 2025 Hospitality extends beyond guest experience; it encompasses the creation of thriving work environments for teams. Based on global workplace rankings and industry recognition, the following hotel employers are shaping the future of work in 2025: 1. Hilton Consistently ranked #1 Best Company to Work For by Fortune Strengths: unmatched employee culture, career mobility across 7,000+ properties, strong Diversity and Inclusion (D&I), and world-class training. Key Insight: Hilton maintains its position as the undisputed global workplace leader, followed by Marriott and Hyatt. Meanwhile, luxury brands such as Four Seasons and Rosewood continue to be highly aspirational for professionals seeking boutique culture and ultra-luxury exposure.

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Working, 9 to 5..... Bear in mind that taking on a leadership position is not a guaranteed way to get a 9 to 5 schedule in hospitality. A manager who oversees day to day operations for example in a restaurant, bar, or hotel will likely be expected to work when the business is busiest, and that will definitely not be during the traditional work shift of 9 to 5. Upper level leadership positions in a large hotel or resort, such as Director of Rooms or Guest Services Manager, are more likely to have a consistent Monday through Friday schedule. Just like leaders in other industries, though, their responsibilities may keep them at work more than 40 hours a week, so whether it counts as a true 9 to 5 could be debated. For a real 40 hours weekday schedule, look for a role in human resources, sales, or accounting and finance. It is common for every person in these departments to work a standard schedule, from an entry level associate all the way up through the managers.

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