Hilton’s Recruitment Drive Targets Over-50s in London
Hotel chain Hilton is embarking on a unique recruitment drive specifically targeting individuals over the age of 50 in London. With 160 job vacancies to fill in the capital, Hilton is recognizing the valuable skills and experiences that older workers can bring to the table. This initiative comes at a time when an increasing number of employees are contemplating career changes or adjustments to their working hours in order to pursue their travel aspirations.
The hospitality industry has long been known for its diverse workforce, and Hilton’s focus on recruiting older workers speaks to the company’s commitment to inclusivity and recognizing the contributions of individuals at any stage of their career. The 400 new roles available across the UK cover a wide range of positions, with the majority being in London. From food and beverage to front office, housekeeping, culinary, engineering, and events, there are opportunities for individuals with varying skill sets and interests to find a role that aligns with their strengths.
Hilton’s decision to target over-50s for recruitment is supported by research that indicates many older workers are feeling burnt out from their current office-based roles and are seeking a fresh start. Additionally, for some individuals, the transition to an empty nest as their children leave home presents an opportunity to explore new career paths. The desire for change is further underscored by recent data from Gallup, which revealed that UK employees are among the least engaged in Europe, with only 10% reporting a high level of engagement in their work.
The phenomenon of “quiet quitters,” employees who do the minimum and lack motivation in their roles, is a concerning trend that has implications for both individuals and the broader economy. It is estimated that the lack of engagement among UK workers costs the economy 11% of its GDP annually, amounting to £257 billion. By targeting over-50s for recruitment, Hilton is not only tapping into a pool of experienced and motivated individuals but also addressing the issue of disengagement in the workforce.
Marlene Batson, Hilton’s HR manager, is a shining example of the benefits of hiring older workers. Having joined Hilton in 2022 after taking early retirement from the civil service, Mrs. Batson brings a wealth of experience and a passion for travel to her role. Working part-time allows her the flexibility to pursue her travel dreams and explore new destinations on weekends. Her ambition to visit as many of Hilton’s 8,000 hotels as possible reflects her enthusiasm for the hospitality industry and the opportunities it presents for personal and professional growth.
In a statement, Marlene Batson shared her positive experience transitioning from the civil service to Hilton, highlighting the culture change and flexibility that her new role offers. She emphasized the sociable nature of her work, which allows her to interact with colleagues and visit different hotels, as well as the freedom to explore new places during her free time. Working for a travel company like Hilton has enabled Mrs. Batson to fulfill her dreams of traveling the world, demonstrating the benefits of finding a job that aligns with one’s passions and interests.
Steve Cassidy, Hilton’s senior vice president and managing director, acknowledged the trend of individuals pursuing second careers later in life and the growing demand for roles that offer a different work experience. The hospitality industry, with its diverse range of opportunities, provides a pathway for individuals seeking flexibility, a more active working environment, or a reentry into the workforce after a period of caregiving. By recognizing the value of older workers and their unique contributions, Hilton is not only meeting its recruitment needs but also fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity within the organization.
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The Value of Older Workers in the Hospitality Industry
As the hospitality industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences and market trends, the value of older workers in this sector cannot be overstated. With their wealth of experience, strong work ethic, and dedication to customer service, individuals over the age of 50 bring a unique perspective and skill set to the table. In a fast-paced and dynamic industry like hospitality, where customer satisfaction is paramount, the maturity and professionalism of older workers can make a significant impact on the overall guest experience.
One of the key benefits of hiring older workers in the hospitality industry is their ability to handle challenging situations with grace and composure. Whether dealing with difficult guests, resolving conflicts among team members, or managing complex operations, older workers bring a level of patience and resilience that is invaluable in a high-pressure environment. Their years of experience in various roles and industries also equip them with a diverse set of skills that can be applied to different aspects of hospitality, from front-of-house operations to back-of-house management.
Moreover, older workers often possess a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility that is ingrained through years of professional experience. Their reliability, punctuality, and attention to detail are qualities that are highly valued in the hospitality industry, where consistency and quality are essential for success. By leveraging the expertise and dedication of older workers, hotels and resorts can enhance their service standards, improve operational efficiency, and create a positive work culture that attracts and retains top talent.
Addressing the Challenges of Ageism in the Workplace
Despite the many benefits that older workers bring to the hospitality industry, ageism remains a persistent challenge that can hinder their employment opportunities and career advancement. Age discrimination, whether overt or subtle, can manifest in various forms, from hiring biases and promotion barriers to unequal treatment and lack of training opportunities. In a competitive job market where youth and innovation are often prioritized over experience and wisdom, older workers may face obstacles in securing meaningful employment and fulfilling their professional aspirations.
To combat ageism in the workplace and promote inclusivity, hospitality companies like Hilton are taking proactive steps to recruit and retain older workers. By implementing age-diverse recruitment strategies, offering training and development opportunities for employees of all ages, and fostering a culture of respect and appreciation for generational differences, organizations can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment. Recognizing the unique strengths and contributions of older workers, such as their experience, reliability, and interpersonal skills, is essential for building a diverse and cohesive team that can thrive in a competitive industry.
The Future of Work: Embracing Age Diversity in Hospitality
As the hospitality industry continues to evolve in response to changing consumer demands and market dynamics, the importance of age diversity in the workforce cannot be overlooked. With an aging population and a growing number of individuals seeking second careers later in life, hospitality companies have a unique opportunity to tap into the talents and experiences of older workers to drive innovation, enhance service quality, and create a more inclusive work culture. By embracing age diversity and valuing the contributions of employees of all ages, hotels and resorts can position themselves for long-term success in a competitive and rapidly changing industry.
The future of work in hospitality lies in embracing age diversity and leveraging the unique strengths of older workers to meet the evolving needs of guests and employees. By recruiting, training, and empowering individuals over the age of 50, hospitality companies can create a more dynamic and resilient workforce that is equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. As the industry continues to adapt to new technologies, consumer preferences, and market trends, the experience, wisdom, and professionalism of older workers will be invaluable assets that drive innovation, enhance customer satisfaction, and elevate the overall guest experience.
