Hotelier Life
As a blogger who shares travel spots and hidden gems, one of my most frequently asked questions is about my hospitality career. So, I thought I'd go ahead and share more about my professional life.
My love for travel sparked when a 12-year-old me traveled solo to Hong Kong to visit my mom. It was my second visit, and I realized I enjoyed being able to explore the new city. Fast forward to graduating high school, my mom and I were in the middle of our US visa application process and had about six months before having to move. I wanted to go to school but did not want to commit to anything crazy, so I chose Hotel and Restaurant Management. My love for hotels then grew from there.
So what do I do?
I am responsible for the overall operations of Sales and Marketing such as organizing sales, account management, client relations, developing business strategies, promoting the hotel, and community engagements.
In this role, I work closely with the Hotels' General Managers, Director of Operations, and Director of Revenue Management to ensure we generate target revenue and build relationships with partners.
How did I get into Sales?
I have been extremely fortunate with this job. While attending Fresno State as a biology major, I was given the opportunity to work as a Sales Manager at Holiday Inn Express & Suites, which sparked my passion for serving and working with people. Creating an extraordinary experience that leaves a smile (and happy tears) on our guests' faces brought me joy. This led me to take a different path and pursue a career in Hospitality. Before this role, I was a Community Manager for a company that managed apartments which taught me how to work both independently and make decisions that are customer experience driven but also protect my owner's investments.
When I applied for the Sales Manager position, I knew it was a very long shot. but with hundred doubts in me, I dropped off my resume personally. I was initially rejected (basically) and did not get a call for an interview until 3 months later, I was referred to the new General Manager who came in and took over. This General Manager took a chance on me and gave me the opportunity to start as a Sales Manager for our 86-room limited-service hotel.
Where do I see myself in 5 years?
I still have a lot to learn, but one day, I want to be able to be a support and share my knowledge with other sales leaders. I would like to either have my own business or be a Regional DOS. I really want to be in a position where I supporting partners. I enjoy working with organizations and sports groups!
In all honesty, NEVER did I ever imagine that I will be in this career. Never imagined I would be overseeing two hotels, leading and building my sales teams, and being given a chance to open a hotel before my second year. I had so much self-doubt, insecurities, and fear — I still do, but God has been pouring me with blessings and I am grateful for supportive family, friends, and work-family who loves, encourage and believes in me when I don’t even believe in myself. Most of the time, we are our enemies and most prominent critics.
A lot of things may seem impossible, and things aren’t always going to go our way, but don’t lose hope and don’t lose courage. Keep pushing. Because we won’t know the taste of sweet success if we don’t know the bitter taste of hard work and failure. Check our brand new Hyatt Place below!
