If you’re a property manager, you’ve almost certainly experienced the effects of staffing shortages. The hospitality industry has been struggling to keep up with demand post-pandemic, and the combination of increased demand and worker shortages is challenging (to say the least). When you’re looking for ways to improve efficiency and reduce inflationary pressures, hiring for temporary hospitality jobs can be a winning strategy. Temporary workers have long been a staple for other industries, and there’s more that our sector can learn from other types of businesses. Here’s a look at ways that you can boost efficiency with reduced or temporary staffing:
Restructure Roles to Combine Jobs
Currently, many hotels operate under a clear division of labor, and roles are rigid. This isn’t the case in many other industries, and it’s common to see job listings that combine responsibilities into one position. If you need to ensure that operations are running smoothly with a smaller crew, consider redefining roles so fewer people are needed in each department. There are many ways to implement this concept, such as combining similar roles or introducing a player-coach system (for example, a housekeeper could supervise a team as well as clean rooms). Although you may find it helpful to combine lower-level responsibilities as much as you can, don’t be afraid to bring in an expert when necessary. In many cases, highly experienced temporary contractors bring a wealth of knowledge and valuable perspective to a property. Then, full-time employees can build upon this foundation when the contractor’s tenure is up.
Utilize Talented Independent Contractors
Contract work is becoming more common across multiple industries, and following this trend can be one of the most effective ways for hotels to improve efficiency and ensure adequate coverage. Instead of focusing on hiring full-time, W2 employees, managers would be wise to tap into the talent of seasoned contractors. Hiring permanent employees is a time-consuming process that often requires a lengthy training period, which is a luxury that few hotels have right now. Highly experienced contractors will save time and add value without disrupting your team’s workflow.
The staffing shortages within the hospitality industry are widespread, and many hotels are struggling to keep up with demand. Our industry has experienced rapid changes since the pandemic, and it may be time to change your staffing practices to help your property thrive. If you need someone experienced and talented to step into a role on a temporary basis, we can help connect you with the best candidates in the business. Since 2003, Hospitality Taskforce has been the leader in sourcing elite contractors to fill temporary hospitality jobs. To start the process of finding the right person or people for your property, please contact us or submit an RFP.