Liset Bom: "The new way of working in the hospitality industry"

In the bustling world of the hospitality industry, where the pressure is high and the days are long, it is crucial to dwell on what really matters: our staff. That is why, from this spot, I want to shine a light on an approach that may take some getting used to for many of us, but is at the same time necessary for our industry: modern employment.

My vision of leadership in the hospitality industry is inspired by the needs and well-being of our team. Unlike the old norms where employees were often under extreme pressure, I strive for a culture where balance and respect are paramount. The idea of working 50 hours a week and rarely being able to take holidays because "it's too busy" is no longer sustainable in our vision of hospitality.

At Hotel de Sterrenberg, we believe that every employee, from the chef to the person sweeping the car park, is essential to our guests' experience. Therefore, everyone gets an equal share of tips, regardless of one's position. This is not only reflected in our corporate culture, but also in concrete actions such as a four-day working week for our kitchen team, overtime to be recorded, and a fair distribution of work during holidays.

Another important aspect is providing space for personal development. We encourage our employees to pursue their dreams, even if they lie outside our hotel. With personal development budgets, we help them acquire the skills needed to open their own restaurant or further develop within our industry.

In our industry, it is a common misconception that more hours of work equals more dedication and success. However, at Hotel de Sterrenberg, we see that working less hard enables our employees to live richer and more complete lives, both inside and outside their professional lives. This benefits the quality of their work and their overall satisfaction. When people have time to relax, spend time with loved ones, or pursue a hobby, they return to work with renewed energy and creativity. This has a direct positive effect on how they approach our guests. By recognising that you are more than your job, we foster an environment where employees feel valued and encourage them to grow both professionally and personally.

This approach not only leads to higher employee satisfaction, but also improves service to our guests. A happy team radiates this to guests, resulting in a more positive experience for everyone who visits our hotel.

The hospitality industry is at a crossroads: we can stick to old habits or opt for a future where well-being and professional development are key. At Hotel de Sterrenberg, we opt for the latter, as we believe this not only benefits our employees, but also increases the quality of our services. It is time for a modern approach to being an employer in the hospitality industry, valuing our staff as the key to our success.