This is the second in a five-part series.

Recruiting exceptional talent is a critical endeavor in any industry, but it assumes a particularly distinctive importance in the realm of hospitality and private clubs. These dynamic sectors, driven by an unwavering pursuit of excellence and unparalleled member experiences, have witnessed significant changes in recent years.

Needs and expectations have evolved, making it clear that recruiting cannot rely on the same approaches used 20, 10, or even 5 years ago.

A fundamental aspect that distinguishes successful recruitment in these industries is recognizing the inherent inconsistency of service. Service, by its very nature, is consumed when it is produced, leading to unique challenges and an ever-evolving landscape that demands acute attention and adaptability. Understanding these intricacies, especially in the context of changing times, is essential for achieving success in the hospitality and private club sectors. The ability to adapt to new trends and evolving demands is now more critical than ever, making recruitment a pivotal factor in staying at the forefront.

Anticipating Industry-Specific Needs

Understanding the hotel, hospitality, and private club sectors goes beyond job descriptions and qualifications. It involves grasping unique traits, trends, and individualized requirements. Effective recruitment in these dynamic industries anticipates evolving needs and identifies candidates who meet position requirements and integrate with the team and culture.

For instance, a luxury hotel seeking a General Manager must consider prior leadership experience, adaptability to changing guest preferences, technological integration, and market navigation. This role requires orchestrating guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, and revenue growth.

Similarly, a private club, whether hiring a Food and Beverage Director, Human Resources Director, General Manager, or Controller, seeks talent proficient in culinary excellence, club culture, and member expectations. The Human Resources Director fosters a cohesive work environment, the General Manager steers financial success and exclusivity, and the Controller ensures fiscal health and industry compliance.

In these industries, roles demand candidates proficient in their domains and attuned to sector-specific demands. Bridging professional competence and industry nuances is vital for successful recruitment, ensuring individuals integrate with the team and contribute to ongoing success.

Navigating Industry Challenges

The hospitality and private club industry faces its fair share of challenges, from seasonal fluctuations in demand to global events that can impact travel and leisure. An intimate understanding of these challenges allows recruiters to find candidates who not only possess the requisite skills but also the resilience and strategic acumen to thrive in such an environment.

For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges to the industry, requiring adaptability and creative problem-solving. Recruiters who understood the industry's challenges were better equipped to identify leaders who could pivot, implement safety measures, and devise innovative or alternate revenue streams during the crisis.

Matching Candidates with Organizational Cultures

Successful recruitment in the hospitality and private club industry extends beyond skills and qualifications—it's about finding candidates who align with the club’s unique culture and values. Each establishment has its own identity and philosophy, whether it's a five-star resort, a family-oriented private club, a yacht club, a city club, etc.

Understanding the industry means appreciating these cultural differences and seeking candidates whose professional values resonate with those of the organization. For example, a club known for its strong sense of community and family-oriented atmosphere would require a different type of General Manager than a trendy urban hotel known for its nightlife and contemporary flair.

Tailoring the Search Process

An industry-specific understanding also informs the recruitment process itself. It means tailoring the search strategy to fit the industry's dynamics. It means knowing where to look for candidates, whether it's through industry-specific networks, and associations, or by leveraging relationships with professionals who have a deep-rooted connection to the field.

Additionally, it involves asking the right questions during interviews to assess a candidate's industry knowledge, adaptability, and commitment to member and guest satisfaction. Understanding the industry allows RCS as a recruiter to craft meaningful and industry-relevant interview questions that delve into a candidate's ability to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities presented by hospitality and private clubs.

Conclusion: Elevating Recruitment in Hospitality and Private Clubs

In the world of hospitality and private clubs, where leadership and vision converge, successful recruitment is more than matching resumes to job descriptions. It's about understanding the industry's nuances, anticipating its ever-changing needs, and recognizing the importance of cultural alignment. With this profound understanding as a foundation, recruitment becomes a strategic endeavor that has the power to elevate organizations, shape the future, and ensure that exceptional member and guest experiences remain at the heart of the hospitality and private club industry.

About the Authors:
Pat Fleming, SHRM- CP is an executive search consultant and recruiter for RCS Hospitality Group. She has more than 30 years of experience from a corporate, human resources and club level perspective. Pat previously served in a variety of capacities at the club level as communications director, membership director, and HR director, collaborating directly with the club’s board of directors, committees, executive leadership team, members, and staff. Her passion is employee relations, which encourages appreciation and respect for each department and how ongoing employee engagement plays a vital role in the success of the club to provide best in class service to its members.

Amy Paris is RCS Hospitality Group’s lead recruiter. As a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, Amy is driven by a genuine passion for identifying and hiring top talent.  Amy has honed her expertise in time management, social media, and project management over the course of her career. As a dedicated recruiter, she collaborates closely with diverse clients to grasp their unique requirements, diligently sourcing and screening candidates, coordinating interviews, and skillfully negotiating offers. Drawing from her past experiences as a director of special events and in club management, she adeptly develops and executes captivating recruitment campaigns.