Attracting the Right Talents to Kickstart their Hospitality Career with You

Feb 28, 2024

Hiring the “perfect” fit goes beyond looking at your prospective talent’s work experience. With structured training and a supportive environment, mid-careerists who are passionate about hospitality can similarly contribute to the success of your organization!

Check out the story of how Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore onboarded a new hire through the WSG’s Career Conversion Programme for Tourism Professionals (CCP-TP) which is administered by SHA.

Chris Tan made a successful transition to the hospitality sector by joining Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore as an Assistant Community Manager in April 2023.  During his interview, Chris expressed interest for the role and was also keen to host guest events despite having no prior relevant experience. After hearing that Chris enjoys outdoor activities as well, his interviewer Fiona Sng, Director of Operations, decided he was indeed the right person for the job.

Under the CCP-TP, the hotel established a structured on-the-job training (OJT) plan for Chris, outlining the skills sets that were needed for him to achieve the required competencies in his new role.   

Chris’ comprehensive scope of learning included OJT for property management system and front office operations, just to name a few.

In fact, his work goes beyond the usual duties of check- ins and check-outs as Chris also helps to curate VIP stay experiences and organize events by coordinating with the key departments and vendors to wow the hotel guests.

Of the numerous events that he has curated, from walking tours on local delights and heritage sites to scenic runs, his most memorable event was bringing his guests to experience the beauty of Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve. It was a truly rewarding experience for Chris when he saw his guests enjoying the rich diversity of native wildlife, such as crocodiles, migratory birds, and even mud crabs.

Chris Tan, Assistant Community Manager, Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore
(Photo credit: Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore)
 
Taking this bold step to pivot to a new job has been a fulfilling journey for Chris so far.  He encourages other mid-career switchers who are interested in the tourism industry to go for it if they have a genuine passion for hospitality.

Chris shared “My role as an Assistant Community Manager offers me diverse experiences and opportunities for constant growth. The hotel's structured on-the-job training has been instrumental in my career transition as it not only provided me with essential skills tailored to my new role but also cultivated a supportive learning environment.

Embrace the change as an opportunity to learn and grow. The hospitality industry thrives on adaptability, and each day presents a chance to make a meaningful impact. It's a rewarding journey filled with diverse experiences and endless possibilities.”

Through the CCP, the hotel received salary support for the duration of Chris’ 3-month training. After onboarding Chris onto the CCP for Tourism Professionals, Fiona Sng, Director of Operations, Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore shares on her perspective as an employer: “I will recommend employers who are on the fence of coming onboard the Career Conversion Program (CCP) to find out more on how it can actually benefit you.

While the traditional way of recruitment and manpower planning is to bring in employees who are experienced and skilled in this industry, we have to also be innovative and open to change. This CCP allows us to capitalise on the grants while also solving our manpower issues, by hiring professionals without the relevant experience, but giving them the opportunity to learn and grow into their new roles.”

Interested to find out more about the Career Conversion Programme for Tourism Professionals after hearing the success story from Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore? Contact SHA at CCP@sha.org.sg today!