A prospective employee needs a mix of on-the-job experience and training in both the hospitality and recruitment industries to become a hospitality recruiter. A candidate must have several years of experience working in the hospitality industry. This experience provides the candidate with contacts and knowledge that he or she can use to pursue a career as a hospitality recruiter. While many recruiters do not require a college diploma, having a formal education in a related field can help a candidate’s chances. In most cases, candidates will also receive on-the-job training.
To work as a hospitality recruiter, most companies require that you have a high school diploma or a general education diploma (GED). A two- or four-year degree in a related field, such as tourism, hotel management, hospitality, or communications, can help a candidate find work in the recruitment industry, though it is not usually required. A certificate from a hospitality vocational school can also help a candidate get a job.
Professional experience in the hospitality industry is one of the most important qualifications for becoming a hospitality recruiter. The amount of experience required varies by company, but most require at least one year. Working in the tourism industry, as a hotel employee on either the management or service side, or in another hospitality service job such as a restaurant worker or event planner can provide this experience.
To work as a hospitality recruiter, a candidate must have a number of skills that will help him or her with the process. For example, a candidate must have prior professional experience communicating with others, as the job heavily relies on communication. Experience in sales, particularly cold-calling, can also help a candidate who wants to work in the hospitality industry. Basic typing and computer skills, telephone experience, and good organizational skills are among the other requirements.
For new hires, many recruitment firms provide a formal training course. An orientation course to on-the-job training with a mentor are all examples of training. Training may last two weeks or more, depending on the recruitment firm. A candidate learns the fundamentals of recruiting during training, including how to find clients, negotiate with hiring companies, and organize the business for maximum efficiency. Many recruiting firms pay candidates on a commission basis, which a candidate learns about during orientation or training.
To further their education, a candidate interested in becoming a hospitality recruiter can attend conventions hosted by various recruitment firms or enroll in courses at extended learning schools. Continuing education is not required, but it can help keep a recruiter up to date on industry changes. Recruiters can also improve their skills by attending these courses and conventions.