How to attract, recruit, and retain talent in the luxury hospitality industry? To answer the human resources challenges of a highly competitive job market, hotel groups have implemented new recruitment tools, career development programs, and innovative communication strategies.
Leaders at the Bürgenstock Collection answer our questions about recruitment, the onboarding process, and career development and give key advice for a successful career in luxury hospitality.
Can you tell us more about your recruitment process?
All open positions are listed on our career page. Depending on the role, we determine the most effective distribution channels to reach potential candidates both in Switzerland and on global platforms. Additionally, we regularly conduct recruitment trips abroad and participate in career days at leading hotel management schools. We also engage with prospective apprentices at expos like ZeBi.
Once a candidate is shortlisted, the next steps in the process can vary significantly by department. For some roles, an online interview may be sufficient, while others may involve a trial day. We prioritise transparent communication throughout every stage of the process to ensure a clear and supportive experience for all candidates.
We also recognise the unique requirements for speciality chefs, trainees, and other specific roles, and tailor our approach accordingly.
How do you integrate new talents?
Depending on the position and department, we offer a mentorship system, a detailed onboarding plan, or, in other cases, close support to ensure a smooth and successful integration of new employees.
What kind of career development programme do you offer your collaborators?
Our HR department includes a dedicated training division that designs personalised development programmes for individual employees and implements position-specific training initiatives. In addition, we are proud members of the Advisory Board at the Academy of Hotel Excellence, where we play an active role in shaping the training programmes offered. This partnership allows us to influence the curriculum and also provides valuable experiences for our employees through their participation.
What internal mobility opportunities do you offer to the Collection collaborators?
We work closely with our sister properties, support internal mobility and share synergies whenever possible. This happens prominently in the kitchen department with the chefs.
What would be your best advice to have a successful career in luxury hospitality?
There is no one-size-fits-all path that applies to everyone. The most important thing is that each person finds their own place. The industry offers so many opportunities, and if you truly love it, you'll find your way. The successful career of each individual looks completely different, and that's the beauty of this industry — there are so many wonderful and promising positions. Whether you want to become a GM or work in one of the operational or administrative departments, everything has its charm.
What human qualities are you looking for in talents?
Openness, confidentiality, curiosity, determination, and strong interpersonal and proactive skills...
Which labels did you earn as a quality workplace?
We earned the title of "Best Employer 2023" from Switzerland's largest business newspaper Handelszeitung and received the "Great Place to Work" certification.
What are the key CSR measures you have in place?
As a forward-thinking and responsible employer, we are proud to support our employees through a partnership with "Small Foot" Daycare. This collaboration provides discounts on daycare services, covering up to 55% of the costs for our employees' children, based on their salary level. Sustainability is one of our core values, and we actively promote environmental responsibility.
We encourage public transportation by offering access to the Bürgenstock Railway and providing discounts on regional public transport. We have agreements with the boat transportation company to provide discounted transportation options for our employees. We also pay a public transport allowance to any employee who does not book a parking space at the resort, and we provide tickets for the boat transportation company and various mountain railways for borrowing. For mobility within the resort, employees can access bicycles, e-bikes, or golf caddies, depending on their role and department.
Additionally, we prioritise the well-being of our team by offering yoga classes and ensuring that our employee gifts are sourced from social institutions, with a strong focus on sustainability. Every aspect of our operations reflects our commitment to both the environment and our employees' holistic needs.
A lover of human interactions, Sonia started her journalism career in various media outlets before moving to London and shifting to the digital industry. Listening to her calling, she's picking up her pen to share the passion and ambitions of luxury hospitality.
