Working in the hotel industry can be both exciting and incredibly demanding. The life of a hotel employee often involves long hours, irregular shifts, high guest expectations, and constant multitasking. Here’s a breakdown of what the lifestyle is typically like, followed by practical ways to manage stress.
Life of a Hotel Employee
Depending on the role (front desk, housekeeping, kitchen, management, etc.), the day-to-day routine varies, but common themes include:
1. Long and Unpredictable Hours
- Early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays are common.
- Shift changes can disrupt sleep patterns.
2. Customer Service Pressure
- Constant guest interaction requires patience, emotional intelligence, and diplomacy—even under stress.
3. Fast-Paced Environment
- There’s little downtime, especially during peak seasons.
- Emergencies and unexpected guest demands are frequent.
4. Team-Oriented Work
- Collaboration across departments is vital: front office, housekeeping, kitchen, security, etc.
5. Career Opportunities
- With dedication, promotions are often available.
- Skills gained are highly transferable globally.
How to Deal with the Stress of Hotel Work
Here are actionable strategies:
1. Practice Time Management
- Plan your day effectively; create checklists for tasks.
- Use quiet moments to prepare for peak hours.
2. Set Boundaries Off-Duty
- Don’t bring work home mentally—disconnect during off time.
- Set clear boundaries to protect your rest and personal life.
3. Take Care of Your Body
- Prioritize sleep (use blackout curtains or earplugs if you work night shifts).
- Eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated.
- Exercise regularly—even short walks help.
4. Develop Stress-Relief Habits
- Deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness exercises during breaks.
- Talk to coworkers—it helps to share experiences and vent positively.
5. Focus on What You Can Control
- Guests may be rude or unrealistic—respond professionally, but don’t internalize.
- Learn from mistakes and move on quickly.
- 6. Celebrate Wins
- Whether it’s positive guest feedback or a smooth shift, acknowledge small victories.
7. Seek Support
- Use HR or wellness resources if burnout is creeping in.
- Consider therapy or coaching if stress feels overwhelming.
Final Thoughts
Working in a hotel teaches resilience, empathy, and multitasking like few other professions. While stress is part of the package, with the right mindset and habits, it can be managed—and even turned into motivation for growth and success.LIFE OF AN HOTEL EMPLOYEE AND HOW TO DEAL WITH THE STRESS OF WORK IN HOTEL
Rajeev Kirtikar, rajeevkirtikar@gmail.com