Elliott Rhoad

Travel truly IS essential! For wellness, infrastructure, economic boosts and so much more. ❓Where are your fave places to travel? Stay? Eat? Hidden gems? Best service you’ve ever had? Tag your place(s) in the comments below 👇🏽 and let’s get folks experiencing the power of hospitality! 🫶💫🍍

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#EventProfs, are you registered for WEC in Louisville yet? Thanks to our sponsor, Marriott International, we have 15 complimentary tuitions for our AI Enhanced Event Professional Certificate course. You'll learn from the incredible team at Reposite and walk away with verified skills in how to harness AI to make your life as a busy event professional easier. Learn how to let AI take over the mundane tasks for you, plus you'll explore how AI can help you create meaningful and immersive experiences at your events. Not sold yet? Here's some feedback from one of our participants in our AI course from last week: "The MPI AI-Enhanced Event Professional Certificate Course was an absolute game-changer for me! Delving into the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) in event planning displayed how this tool liberates both time and creativity. I felt like a pioneer in event management innovation, using innovative tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini. Collaborating with industry professionals enriched my learning experience, and by the course's conclusion, I felt confident in my ability to craft impactful and unforgettable events using AI. This course is not just about education; it is a thrilling journey into the future of events that has broadened my horizons and unlocked new career possibilities. I highly recommend it to anyone aiming to stay ahead in the ever-evolving events industry. If you are ready to revolutionize your career and infuse your event planning with excitement and efficiency, this course is an absolute MUST!" Interested? Fill out this short form to reserve your seat! https://bit.ly/WECAI

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This shows that thinking outside the box drives revenue.

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Elevate Your Hotel Career with RoomsRelay Hire! Are you a hotel industry freelancer, task force member, or consultant looking to showcase your expertise and land your next big opportunity? Look no further than RoomsRelay Hire! 🔗 RoomsRelayHire.com At RoomsRelay Hire, we provide an intuitive and powerful platform where hospitality professionals can create compelling service listings that capture the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned consultant or a dynamic freelancer, our platform helps you stand out in a competitive market. Why RoomsRelay? ✅ Showcase Your Experience: Highlight your achievements and specialized skills in a comprehensive, easy-to-navigate format. ✅ Boost Visibility: Get your profile in front of top hotel owners and general managers actively seeking talented professionals. ✅ Enhance Your Listings: Our team of experts, with over 20 years of industry experience, guides you in crafting listings that focus on critical KPIs like Occupancy Rate, RevPAR, Customer Satisfaction, and more. ✅ Maximize Opportunities: Whether you're aiming to increase revenue, reduce costs, or improve guest satisfaction, RoomsRelay connects you with the right opportunities. Ready to take your hotel career to new heights? 🔹 Visit RoomsRelayHire.com 🔹 Create your profile 🔹 Start showcasing your expertise today! Join the RoomsRelay Hire community and let us help you connect with the best opportunities in the hospitality industry. Your next career milestone is just a listing away! #HotelIndustry #HospitalityCareers #RoomsRelayHire #HotelConsultants #Freelancers #HospitalityProfessionals #CareerGrowth #JobOpportunities

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Does your hotel’s onboarding process set new hires up for long term success? A housekeeper onboarding experience isn’t limited to just their first day on the job — in fact, it starts long before a new hire’s first day. Download this checklist to audit your current onboarding procedures before, during, and after your new hire’s first shift to improve retention rates, employee engagement, and guest experiences: https://hubs.ly/Q02y-Gfk0

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One thing I look at in every single hotel and venue I visit is accessibility. I have always been focused on accessibility as long as I have been in the hospitality industry. But I became hyper aware of how badly many places are failing when I had my son 9 years ago and was pushing a stroller in all public places. This was eye opening at just how frustrating it is to get into a venue or move around easily when one cannot navigate all of the obstacles in many places. Many places do an OK job at the basics, but still need to be far more accessible. With an estimated 13.5% of the US population having some kind of disability, you would think places would want to go well beyond the basics of ADA requirements to make all feel welcome. But the number of times I had to go through the back of house to get to the one elevator that services a particular area, or been yelled at for using an elevator reserved for VIP's, or had the parking lot access blocked by concrete beams, or any one of a million other impediments. Hotels, you simply have to go further than just meeting basic ADA standards. Yes, I am happy that you have 1% of your inventory as ADA rooms, and that you have a couple of accessible parking spots. Are you truly welcoming to all guests? Do you make it easy for guests to get around your hotel or venue? Are your staff trained to help everyone? Have your executive team arrive at your hotel in wheel chairs, or blindfolded, and spend the whole day navigating your hotel. I bet you could figure out 30 points within your property that should and easily could be fixed. We have to do better and be more welcoming to people of all abilities.

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The hospitality industry has faced its share of challenges in recent years, but for many, issues around staffing continue to pose a problem. A lot of hotels around the world are struggling to attract and retain employees, which in turn is impacting their operational efficiency, service, and ultimately, the guest experience. So what’s the answer? There are many factors at play, but creating a positive, communication-friendly work environment is an essential ingredient, especially one that’s free from language barriers… and this is where #artificialintelligence can play a crucial role. Combining hardware, cloud software, and mobile connectivity, Relay is seeking to eliminate language-related barriers with its breakthrough AI functionality, allowing for real-time face-to-face language translation via talk or text. Their "TeamTranslate" enables teams to select their preferred language so all messages they send or receive are automatically translated accordingly – a potential game-changer for #hospitality. More info via International Luxury Hotel Association https://lnkd.in/esbD6eZY #hoteltech #hoteltechnology #hospitalitytechnology #hotelindustry #hospitalityindustry 

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#wednesdaywisdom Ops Journal #6 - Lines of Communciation 🎯 "It's too much work for one person" a colleague reminded me recently, out of care for my well being. I asked in turn with genuine curiosity; "What is more important than communicating with our teams and partners on the frontline?" Nothing was the response... ✅️ Lines of communication are the difference between life and death on the battlefield. Whilst we are far removed from the ranks of Charlemagne or Saladin Ayyub, business can also thrive or die on its lines of communication. 💯 This past week, an intense amount of work has gone into reviewing our lines of communication. I urge any and all leaders to undertake this task as soon as practical. 🙏 Even if you are confident that they are strong, remember, business is ever evolving and the most dangerous thought - "We have always done it that way" 🤯 A framework for you below to consider when reviewing, it is important to not only review how we communicate, but also, lay out principles for what good communication looks like. 👍 Make time to communicate well, that is how we will make history together 👌 #making #history #together

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Are you Gen Z or a Millennial working in the hospitality industry? What are your thoughts on how the industry is adjusting to new generational expectations? Is it even possible for an industry famed for long hours and shift work to adjust to these? Share your thoughts.

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The best way to prevent nerves from getting the best of you? Make a plan. Learn more from #Adecco Staffing.

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Enjoyed the 2024 March Madness...as did Cleveland and Phoenix. "Hotel revenue per available room in the Cleveland market between April 5-8 was $195, a whopping 227% year-over-year increase, according to CoStar data. Average daily rate rose 105% year over year to $241 and occupancy was 81%, which was a 60% jump over last year." "The Phoenix market also saw a marked increase in hotel metrics compared to last year. RevPAR from April 5-8 was $238, a 109% year-over-year increase. ADR increased 51% to $274 and occupancy rose 38% to 87%." #hoteldata #str #costar #NCAAtourney

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Things I’ve learned in my multi unit stretch assignment: Build relationships with trust and accountability Partner with the team to diagnose the root cause and find the habit creating the negative result Bring awareness to the negative behavior Reinforce a positive behavior in it’s place Utilize the leadership teams to close the gap Stack and compound the little wins to create momentum Empower leaders to shine with their own unique gifts Rinse and repeat I once thought leadership was a mythical skill set people were naturally gifted with. These last two years I’ve learned what it really consists of: Relationship building. Consistency. Accountability. It never get’s easier. We just keep striving to get better. 🤝

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Fueling team spirit isn't just leadership; it's an art. Dive into these five strategies that go beyond the boardroom, sparking joy, and elevating your team to new heights. Ready to inspire greatness? Click the link to read my latest blog. #InspireLeadership #TeamElevation #LeadershipStrategies https://lnkd.in/g8yM38uw

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This week I had the opportunity to attend Marriott’s AGM Leadership Meeting at the beautiful Courtyard Downtown Detroit. The central themes were: Be Connected, Be Curious, and Be Courageous. Here are some key takeaways I’m excited to bring back to my property and create some magic! ✨ 1. ✨ Be Connected✨: Emphasizes the importance of building strong, authentic relationships within and outside of our hotels. Remember “if we treat our employees right, they'll treat the customers right. And if customers are treated right, they'll come back.” 2. ✨ Be Curious✨: Reinforced the importance of a having a curious mindset. Asking questions, seeking knowledge, and continuously learning are key to being a great leader. 3. ✨Be Courageous✨: Highlighted the need for courage in leadership. This is demonstrated when making bold decisions, taking risks, and standing up for what’s right. #creatingmagic #marriottinternational #marriottselectbrand #MxM

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Servers are the heart and soul of a restaurant. With rising minimum wage ($19 in West Hollywood!), operators are looking for ways to cut costs and create server-free dining experiences. TBH, makes me think of the short-lived “order & pay” mania during the pandemic (s/o to Toast!). HOT TAKE Well-trained and warm service can enhance your meal and build guest loyalty. At the very least, a server’s upselling skills should increase revenue enough to cover their higher cost (offering another round of drinks, add-ons, etc). If a restaurant doesn’t have the resources to hire and train great people, creating a server-free environment makes sense. As a guest, I’d much rather order myself than interact with someone with poor menu knowledge. Would you pay fine dining prices in a server-free restaurant? https://lnkd.in/d4E5pvRY

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This is paramount, know your Team! Take the time to listen, one on one, compassion, empathy and respect will unlock the hidden gem in each person that others could never. Because your care, your team will excel and exceed all expectations! #leadership #management #leadershipdevelopment #employeeengagement

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Successful Managers have the skill not only to handle subordinates but also to manage superiors. Recent Guest Lecture in the Project Management Class at the Avila University on an interesting topic “Manage Your Boss”. Sarah Sullivan Jose (Joe) Ascensio #manageyourboss #manageup #manageacross

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🚢 Servant Leadership: Putting Your Team First in the Hospitality Industry 🌍 In the fast-paced and ever-evolving hospitality industry, the success of any organization hinges on the strength and dedication of its team. As leaders, we have the unique opportunity and responsibility to foster an environment where our team members feel valued, supported, and empowered. This is where servant leadership comes into play—a leadership style that emphasizes prioritizing the needs of your team above all else. By focusing on the growth and well-being of our employees, we create a foundation of trust and collaboration that leads to exceptional guest experiences and organizational success. Servant leadership isn't just about making decisions for the benefit of the team; it's about actively listening to their concerns, providing the resources they need to excel, and recognizing their contributions. When we lead by serving, we cultivate a culture of mutual respect and loyalty. This approach not only boosts morale and job satisfaction but also drives innovation and performance. In an industry where customer satisfaction is paramount, a motivated and engaged team is our most valuable asset. How do you practice servant leadership in your organization? What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences! 🌟 #Leadership #ServantLeadership #HospitalityIndustry #TeamSuccess #CustomerExperience

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🌟 Building Trust, Building Teams 🌟 June, Director of Operations at a hospitality management company, came to us for coaching to improve trust within her team. Her team was struggling with collaboration and communication issues, which were impacting project deadlines and overall morale. And ultimately, impacting the overall guest satisfaction. We focused on trust-building strategies. As trust grew, June's team became more cohesive and collaborative. They communicated more effectively, met deadlines, and showed increased job satisfaction. By building trust, June successfully elevated her team's performance and morale. Trust is the foundation of any successful team. Watch this video to discover powerful strategies to strengthen trust among your team members and elevate your collaboration to new heights. 🤝✨ 👉🏼 Visit my website or DM me to learn more about how my coaching approach for organizations and individuals can move the needle! https://lnkd.in/ge27cnYs –––––– #coaching #leadership #business #coach #growth

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