Season 1-3: Best of
Welcome to a special episode of “Monday motivation – Felix asks”. It is Monday, 17 May, and exactly 6 months ago I started this little project. I have conducted a total of 18 interviews with hospitality and tourism professionals from all over the world and started my website withFelix.de.
The third season ended last week, and before season four starts next week on 24 May, I reviewed all interviews to share my favorite quotes and takeaways with you. Considering all the wise words that were said by all these exceptional leaders, I am truly grateful for the journey that this little project has taken me and will forever savor each moment.
I remember the day when the first idea for this project popped up in my head, but I was not sure if people would take the time to answer my questions. So, I sent out my questions, and only a few hours later, an email from Mr. Phil Barnes was in my inbox. THANK YOU!
His email was a confirmation that I am indeed on the right track, and the rest you all know!
In last week’s episode, I asked Abdul Baaghil what hospitality means to him, and he said exactly what it means to me:
“It means everything to me!”
I hope you will enjoy today’s article, a list of powerful and wise words from hospitality and tourism experts from all around the world.
Phil Barnes, General Manager at Fairmont Century Plaza and Regional VP Southern California
“Passion, enthusiasm, energy, and commitment have driven my career, and to have those you have to be in an environment where learning and development are encouraged, and you can question and understand why decisions are being made. I have said on many occasions that we are in an industry where we are just trying to take care of people, not solve world hunger or put a man on Mars, so we should be aligned and transparent in the organization we work in if we are to be successful. If you’re not in that kind of organization, then find another one that is.”
Monika Tritz, the General Manager at Kempinski The One Suites Hotel Shanghai Downtown:
“Never stop moving, even if you feel you are moving in baby steps, important is you move - and sometimes in your career, you might have to step one step back to get two steps ahead."
Arian Röhrle, General Manager at Seehotel Schlierseer Hof and President “The International Association for Deputy Managers and Front Office Managers of Luxury Hotels”
“Weaknesses are challenges and opportunities to improve and that one should set always set goals that are 80% favorable and 20% scary.”
Emma Parfitt, Area Director of Marketing at The Dorchester
“One of the best things about being in hospitality is the diversity of people you get to work with, all with different passions and talents and who are always so generous with their expertise.”
Julian R. Haddon, Regional Director of Sales and Marketing Europe for the Rosewood Hotel Group
“Give your very best with humility & kindness at all times as we are all replaceable...”
Declan McGurk, Commercial Director at the Boatyard Distillery
“I think the important thing for any person starting in their career is that they take the wheel and drive. Don’t wait for opportunities to present themselves but instead make the decisions yourself. There will be obstacles and roadblocks but when they occur take a moment and re-think how to get to the next destination.”
Rob Arrow, Product Development & Head of Concierge Service at Seera Group
“Providing moments and memories that will stay with those involved for a lifetime, gestures big or small that touch the soul and mind.”
Anna Ziegler, Director of Sales and Marketing at Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten
“Passion! People! Cultures! It is an industry that brings people from various backgrounds with very different experiences to achieve one common goal of creating memorable experiences for guests, colleagues, and clients. The joy of creating something special together as a team is rewarding and fulfilling!”
Walter Ishizuka, Executive Chef at The Hoxton Paris
“Be persistent; find the right place to start a career with a mentor who can teach you the spirit of work and a company that believes in its staff’s development.
Something important that I have noticed over the years is to be patient, not rush, or be afraid to start from the bottom and learn the basics. The younger generation wants to go fast, however, a lot of things take time and repetition to master the knowledge and skills.”
Alaina Monblatt, Director International Relations at The Plaza New York
“To me, hospitality is a very natural thing. I love welcoming people to my country, my city, my home. I love hosting and entertaining, recommending activities, restaurants, and just making travel a bit easier and more beautiful for my clients and friends.”
Roman Mehrow, Founder and Owner at RSelection AG, Zurich
“It’s the most beautiful industry with a lot of great (crazy) people. You most probably won’t do it if you want to make quick money, but you will become rich in experiences that no one can ever take it away. And there is no other industry with such a passion.”
Till Raymond Westheuser, General Manager of The Wellem, Düsseldorf
“Keeping your eyes open, being able to listen to the older generation without being too proud to ask for advice if needed. And finally, not taking yourself too seriously is a key aspect to further develop as a hotelier.”
Michael Bonsor, Managing Director of The Rosewood, London
“Learn as much as you can now and experience as much as you can. When you are young you don’t realize how much freedom you have to travel or make mistakes. Do all of this when you are young – it gets more complicated the older you get!”
Corina Goetz, Founder of Star-Cat Ltd., London
“The advice that I still follow to this day is that relationships are key to everything.”
Edouard Grosmangin, Managing Director of Rosewood São Paulo
“You are joining the most incredible industry of service endlessly revisiting customer’s needs & dreams. Don’t be a follower, anticipate, believe, and try things. Traditions are made from successful innovations. I love people in general and believe that attitude is a little thing that makes big difference: keep smiling as much as you can.”
Sulaiman Al-Romi, Director of Protocol at the Capital Market Authority, Riyadh
“Yes, H.E Mr. Mohammed Al Shaikh he is still my good wisher, He gave me an advice which I follow and will always follow; he said “Do not hesitate to help anybody who comes to your door asking for help, help if you can.”
Richard Schestak, Managing Director of Siam Kempinski Bangkok
“Choose the organizations and leaders that you wish to work for wisely since early lessons and experiences form your professional character. Ensure that you build a good network from the start and be passionate about what you do. Dare to venture out into the unknown.”
Abdul Baaghil, CEO and Founder of Harvest Cotton Tale
“We live in times where resumes are not good enough; it is all about the power of “Your Brand”, yet genuine and true to self.”
Again, a massive THANK YOU to all the interviewees, and I am excited to start season 4 on Monday next week.
Happy Monday, and don’t forget to #sharepositivestories
Felix
