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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Monday, October 17, 2005

It's the attitude that's important

 •  Opportunity knocking for that hotel job

By Lynda Arakawa
Advertiser Staff Writer

There are no hard and fast rules about what it takes to get a management position at a hotel. But some industry officials contacted by The Advertiser noted several qualifications that they generally look for:

  • A bachelor's degree in travel industry management or business administration is often preferred but not required.

  • Previous experience in the hotel or restaurant industry. Hotel student internships provide valuable experience, said Eileen Nepomuceno, director of quality training for the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa.

    "That experience is so important, and it helps to solidify what they're really interested in and what they want to pursue in this industry," she said. "It helps them to stay focused on what they need to learn more of."

  • Computer proficiency.

  • Strong verbal and writing skills.

  • Speaking another language, especially Japanese, is a plus.

  • Leadership experience. Take the lead in projects at work, community service, student activities or clubs, Nepomuceno said. "That all comes into play when you're in the interview and you're selling yourself for the position."

    Perhaps above all, hotels are looking for people with lots of energy and a passion for the business.

    "You gotta have high energy and leadership potential to be in these positions," said Kawehi Sellers, internship and career placement coordinator for the University of Hawai'i School of Travel Industry Management. "You have to be really outstanding and energetic."

    Keith Vieira, senior vice president and director of operations for Starwood Hotels & Resorts in Hawai'i and French Polynesia, said he looks for individuals with "that 'go get 'em' energy."

    "It is much more attitude-based than it is pure intelligence," he said. "You're really looking for that special one who is just aggressive from a standpoint of wanting to do more.

    "I definitely want to see an affinity for ho'okipa, or Hawaiian hospitality. They have to have an understanding that our culture and our history is very important to our guest experience. We make sure that either they have that knowledge or they have the desire to learn that knowledge. We're not looking for cutthroat, do whatever it takes to win."

    Reach Lynda Arakawa at larakawa@honoluluadvertiser.com.