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Even though many career fields are experiencing a reduction in available employment opportunities, the hospitality industry is continuing to grow at a healthy rate. Every year, members of the baby boom generation are entering retirement age and most of them are still young and healthy enough for travel. Many who are still active in the work force are traveling more often as well.
Hospitality is an extremely variable industry regarding the types of jobs it has to offer. Work is available in restaurants, hotels, resorts and even aboard luxury cruise ships. Someone working in the hospitality field can have plenty of opportunities to see the world and to experience different cultures. Many students working towards a degree in the hospitality field are able to take advantage of internships and programs that allow them to Study Abroad for a semester or two.
It is not difficult for someone curious about working in hospitality to get a taste of what it's like without making a large financial commitment. Entry level jobs in hospitality are fairly easy to obtain. Students enrolled in hospitality degree programs as well as those who are exploring future career options can find seasonal jobs in any part of the country ranging from front desk personnel, waitstaff, housekeeping and driving a shuttle.
Salaries and wages rise with education and experience. The average salary for a hotel manager is $53,000, while a banquet manager averages $44,000 per year. Servers in quality restaurants can earn around $300 nightly in gratuities, private chefs who freelance can earn $100,000 per year and those who start their own businesses sometimes become very wealthy.
Job requirements in the hospitality industry are as varied as the positions available. Managing a hotel, resort or restaurant may require a four year degree. For those interested in the culinary arts, community colleges and culinary schools offer two year degree programs. Perhaps the best news for aspiring hospitality professionals is that it's one area where it still possible to advance the old fashioned way: by working their way up the ladder.
