To become a hotel supervisor, it is favorable to have good interpersonal and communication skills, and also a superb attention to detail. In addition, some employers in this industry may prefer that you have some type of post-secondary education or training in hospitality management. If you are seeking to become a senior-level hotel supervisor, it is helpful to strengthen your commercial insight and knowledge-base by completing a master’s degree program that focuses on the management of hospitality. There are even some hotel chains, usually large ones, in which you may have to obtain a professional certification in order to become a hotel supervisor.
Educational programs to become a hotel supervisor come in several forms, with many ranging from associate’s to master’s degrees. The knowledge needed to help you to gain an entry-level supervisor role can be obtained through the associate's programs that focus on fundamental courses and improving communication skills. Both bachelor’s and master’s degree curriculums take a more in-depth look at a supervisor’s role in hotel management, as well as marketing initiatives, short- and long-term operations, and more. In addition, master’s programs tend to focus on marketing law and human resource management.
Not all employers require you to obtain a license or certification to become a hotel supervisor, but both are very advantageous to have. In the United States, different types of certifications can be acquired to promote your professionalism as a hotel supervisor, with most being offered through the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute. The eligibility requirements to become certified differ depending on whether or not you have formal education in the industry or simply just job experience. No matter what type you obtain, it must be renewed every five years.
It is essential that you have an assortment of skills to become a hotel supervisor, as well as a likeable and sociable personality. To provide guests with the most pleasurable experience possible, you must maintain the ability to consistently collaborate with staff members, as well as guests. It is very likely that you will have to uphold a professional appearance and stay in compliance with policies and procedures to become a hotel supervisor as well; this makes self-discipline a very valuable trait to sustain. Most employers look for a person with excellent social skills to fulfill the role of hotel supervisor. Attending workshops and seminars that focus on this topic are great ways to improve your social skills.