Today marks the second annual National Hotel Employee Day, a holiday observed on September 1st to honor nearly two million workers in the American hotel industry.
Initiated in 2022 by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and the National Day Calendar, the day comes at a critical time when hotels are looking to fill approximately 100,000 open positions.
According to a survey by the AHLA, more than 80% of hotels report experiencing staffing shortages, and 26% say they are severely understaffed. The most critical staffing requirement is in the area of housekeeping, with 40% of hotels ranking it as their top hiring need.
This staffing challenge coincides with strong summer travel demand, offering unprecedented career opportunities for hotel employees. Wages in the hotel industry are averaging over $23.00 per hour this year, coupled with improved benefits and unprecedented flexibility.
America’s 62,500 hotels had a substantial economic impact in 2022, supporting 8.3 million American jobs and paying over $104 billion in wages and other compensation. Additionally, last year saw hotel guests spending more than $691 billion on lodging, food and beverages, transportation, retail, and other related services.
“Employees are the lifeblood of every hotel,” said AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers. “With pay, benefits, and flexibility at near-historic levels, there’s never been a better time to start a hotel career.”
Hotels are now offering near-historic wages, improved benefits, and enhanced work flexibility to attract new talent. “Today and throughout the year, we are proud to celebrate hotel employees and their important work,” Rogers added.
To learn about hotel career opportunities and search for jobs, visit www.thehotelindustry.com
To learn about National Hotel Employee Day, visit www.ahla.com/day
