Post-pandemic hospitality boom demands skilled workers.

As the world emerged from the shadows of the pandemic, the hospitality industry experienced an unprecedented resurgence. The sector, which weathered the sustained Covid storm for two long years, has now stepped into the limelight once again.

However, this time, it's not just a return to normalcy; it's a remarkable explosion of growth that has not been seen by the industry in a long time. This is evident in the number of new hotels, restaurants and bars mushrooming all over the globe as well as the ambitious expansion plans of current players. The industry once brought to its knees by Covid is not only bouncing back but flourishing, and this remarkable turnaround has ignited an insatiable demand for skilled manpower.

Following the pandemic, as hotels and eateries steadily found their footing, a travel surge of epic

proportions swept across the globe. The phenomenon, often termed "revenge tourism," witnessed a renewed vigour in travel as individuals sought to release their pent-up desire to travel. Hotels and restaurants revelled in this newfound wave of patrons, but this revival came with its own unique challenge: a dire shortage of skilled staff.

The hospitality industry bore the brunt of the pandemic's impact, with thousands losing their jobs or facing prolonged pay cuts. The aftermath prompted many, especially the youth, to shy away from a profession in the hospitality industry that had once seemed enticing and brimming with talent. Reports have suggested a significant drop in admissions to hotel management colleges, indicating a potential decline in future industry entrants. The manpower crisis, it seemed, was far from over; however, this crisis brought forth a wealth of opportunities.

Amidst the manpower shortage, hotels were compelled to re-evaluate their hiring strategies and working conditions. Gone are the days of the industry being perceived as a relentless grind with meagre rewards. Hoteliers have embraced the need for fair compensation and engaging work environments. Workplaces are now evolving into democratic, diverse and inclusive spaces that accommodate the unique needs of their team members.

A prime example of this transformation can be witnessed in the heart of hotel operations – the kitchen. Traditionally considered the domain of 'alpha males,' culinary careers often deterred women and others from diverse backgrounds. However, this narrative is changing. The recognition of diversity's power to fuel creativity has dismantled barriers. Some of the most successful restaurants today are helmed by women chefs who are raising the bar in terms of

culinary excellence. Chefs are no longer confined to hotel kitchens; opportunities abound on luxury cruise liners, in restaurants, flight kitchens, industrial canteens, within the realm of food-tech companies and also as entrepreneurs.

In a country like India, where a graduate degree was once the pinnacle of education, the paradigm has shifted. The realisation that employability matters more than a degree has gained traction. Short-term skill-based courses, coupled with industry internships, have proven to be the catalyst for preparing students to meet job demands. Nowhere is this more relevant than in the culinary field. For instance, the Kamaxi College of Culinary Arts in Goa offers programs ranging from three months to three years, all meticulously designed by industry professionals. This ensures students develop both a robust culinary foundation and an acute understanding of industry needs.

While some hospitality roles prioritise personality over qualifications, culinary positions demand a higher skill level. Employers are stepping up to attract the right talent, going the extra mile by offering customised pay packages, benefits and long-term career plans. The severity of the crisis has even led several countries to relax work visa rules to facilitate overseas hiring, further underscoring the dire need for skilled manpower.

What can an employee do to ride the wave and boost their career prospects?

Do not let the current equation make you complacent and overconfident of yourself. Stay focused on building a strong foundation to your career, work on constantly learning on the job and developing new skill sets and stay well networked within the industry. Success will be yours!

In this dynamic landscape, talented, ambitious and passionate chefs are poised to carve out lucrative and fulfilling global careers. As the postpandemic hospitality explosion reshapes the industry, skilled manpower is the linchpin that will determine success. The tables have turned and the hospitality industry is beckoning skilled individuals to seize the moment, embrace the opportunities and help shape a vibrant future.