Hotel manager : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates and those with an HND, a degree in the following subjects may increase your chances:

• hotel and hospitality management;
• business or management;
• business with languages;
• travel, tourism or leisure studies.

Entry to manage a particular environment within the hotel or hotel group, for example advertising or accounting, may require a relevant qualification or professional accreditation.

Some of the management training programmes run by large hotel groups are for graduate entry only, for which a minimum 2:2 degree is usually required. It is possible to enter hotel management without a degree, HND or foundation degree, since employers place a lot of emphasis on relevant experience. A general standard of education is sought and many people then work their way up to management through on-the-job training and external qualifications.

A postgraduate qualification is not normally necessary for entry unless your first degree is in a non-relevant subject or you lack work experience. Masters, diploma and certificate courses in hotel and/or hospitality management are offered at various institutions. Many of these courses are open to graduates from any discipline with little or no experience, as well as non-graduates with significant hotel or managerial experience.

Employers often ask for relevant work experience, not all of which needs to have been in a hotel, although this is particularly helpful. Other experience might include any customer-focused work such as catering, bar or retail work. Language skills may also be an advantage, especially for hotels which are part of an international chain.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• a friendly personality and genuine desire to help and please others;
• ability to think clearly and make quick decisions;
• numeracy and logistical planning skills;
• a professional manner and calm, rational approach in hectic situations;
• ability to balance customer and business priorities;
• flexibility and a 'can do' mentality;
• energy and patience;
• excellent communication and interpersonal skills, especially when dealing with speakers of other languages. 

It is important for anyone planning to specialise early on in their hotel management career to select a first job with care, as some hotel groups offer wider opportunities including events, sales, marketing, human resources and training.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.