Dec 21 2008
Hospitality Employees and the Holidays
I spent six years in the hospitality business as a waitress, front desk clerk, and front office manager and also have quite a few friends who are tour guides, servers, chefs, and housekeepers, so I know a thing or two about these often overlooked difficult jobs—especially when it comes to the holidays.
I’ve spent many a Christmas Eve sorting through dinner reservations making sure everyone has the reservations they want, dealing with families extremely upset that their room isn’t big enough for their whole family, and haggling with guests about the prices they have to pay to use our amenities. Although the holidays are supposed to be a time to reflect on family, love, and peace, many people seem to turn into Grinches who expect absolute perfection and want to blame the girl behind the front desk for their holiday stress.
As I entered the hotel parking lot last Christmas morning (after also working Christmas Eve night), I burst into tears. I had just spent eight hours putting out fires and other crises, dealing with upset guests, and trying to remain calm knowing that my family was enjoying our usual Christmas egg casserole and playing board games. It was a tough day that ultimately led to me changing industries.
So, as the holidays approach and everyone begins their holiday travels, I ask that you keep in mind those customer service personnel working through their own holidays and missing their own families to do their best for you to have a nice Christmas vacation. Please give them a warm smile and maybe even a thank you or a Happy Holidays to let them know that you appreciate their sacrifices.
Photo by mrsmas at www.sxc.hu
