As we move forward in the 21st Century, I personally see at least five critical components of learning for all of us in the hospitality industry. 

First, we must recognize that international studies are not just for economics classes in college � it is an essential subject.  It is not a matter of studying geography, but of learning to appreciate the value of the global marketplace and the economic potential and value for our individual business.

Second, we must realize the value of ethics and values in both professional and personal decision-making.   We all realize in some detail how our industry literally encompasses many of the perspectives of our global market.  It attracts people from all walks of life and provides employment to professionals at a wide range of skills. 

Third, we must do much more than discuss diversity in seminars and read of it in magazines.  The reality of the world is that most people outside the Americas are not Christian.  More than 70% of the world is black, yellow or brown.  We must prepare our minds to be open in ways many of us have yet to address.

Fourth, we must ask why we perform certain operational practices when they are obviously flawed.  Why are schedules always made the same?  Why must housekeeping always have the largest turnover?

Finally, we must address technology.  We cannot rely on the ways of the past to guarantee success in the future.  

I find myself frequently asking, �How can we form effective partnerships between our company and education?�   It seems that many of us in the hotel business may not have a comfort level of how to effectively teach a workshop in a classroom setting, yet we do know how to set and meet goals.

In related stories on Distance Learning, we are now being offered new potential ways to expand our learning through options in addition to those offered by traditional classrooms and semesters.  It requires self-drive and focus, but the benefits also return to those that make the effort.

I hope you will give some thought on your personal and professional journey for continuing success.
 

John Hogan, CHA MHS is the Director of Education & Training for Best Western International, the world�s largest lodging brand.  His background includes teaching college level courses as an adjunct professor for 20 years, while working with Sheraton, Hilton, Omni and independents hotels.  Prior to joining Best Western International in spring of 2000, he was the principal in an independent training & consulting group for more than 10 years.  He has published more than 75 articles & columns on the hospitality industry.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of this publication or of Best Western International. A variation of this article originally appeared in the December 2000 DIRECTIONS.