What does a hotel manager do?

I'm interested in the hospitality industry and would love to know more about what a hotel manager's role involves. What are their main duties, and what skills are important for this job?

A hotel manager, often referred to as a hotel general manager, oversees all aspects of a hotel's operations to ensure guest satisfaction and the efficient running of the hotel. These responsibilities encompass a wide range of managerial tasks, with day-to-day duties varying greatly depending on the size and type of hotel.

Key responsibilities typically include:

1. Administration: Coordinating and managing staff schedules, handling customer complaints and queries, and managing budgets.

2. Operations: Overlooking food and beverage management, housekeeping, and maintenance. They ensure that the front desk, housekeeping, and other areas are running smoothly.

3. Sales and Marketing: Developing strategies to increase a hotel's visibility, attract clients, and increase occupancy rates, sometimes in coordination with a dedicated marketing team.

4. Revenue Management: Evaluating business reports and strategizing revenue management. Managers analyze booking trends, decide room rates, and work with the sales team to ensure profitability.

5. Customer Service: Ensuring guest satisfaction by maintaining high-quality standards for all hotel services and facilities. They will often act as the point of escalation for guest issues.

For the skills, a hotel manager should ideally possess strong communication and leadership skills, as they are central to coordinating staff and ensuring guest satisfaction. Problem-solving skills are vital for handling unexpected issues or complaints. They also need strong organizational and multitasking skills due to the breadth of areas they oversee. Lastly, having a good understanding of the hospitality industry, including trends and best practices, is important.

Finally, while a degree in hospitality or business management is often beneficial, many hotel managers work their way up from entry-level positions, gaining valuable practical experience along the way.