Hospitality Through Bhawna's Lens: A Unique Perspective

Admin

Published on March 4, 2024

Discover how Bhawna's passion for hospitality drives her success in managing and inspiring hotel teams.

In this issue, we are privileged to spotlight an accomplished professional from the hospitality industry, whose career journey is a testament to resilience, skill, and leadership. Graduating from IHM Meerut in 2007, our featured guest has since accumulated 16 years of comprehensive experience across the spectrum of hotel operations, with a particular emphasis on housekeeping. Their professional evolution is remarkable, progressing from Manager of Operations to achieving the pinnacle role of General Manager during their tenure at various esteemed hotels in Patiala. This trajectory not only reflects their adeptness in navigating the complexities of hotel management but also their dedication to fostering environments of excellence and innovation. Our guest's story is a compelling narrative of personal and professional growth, underscored by a relentless pursuit of excellence in service and operational management. As we engage in this conversation, we look forward to uncovering the insights and strategies that have propelled their success in the hospitality sector, offering valuable lessons for aspiring professionals and industry veterans alike.

Can you describe your approach in designing and implementing Training programs for Suba Hotels? How do you ensure they effectively meet the needs of employees and the organization?

Our training programs are meticulously crafted, taking into account the operational challenges, employees' aspirations, and the necessity for a continuous learning curve integrated into their daily responsibilities. The development of these programs is spearheaded by Mr. Jaspal Singh Bhatia, Vice President of Operations, who relies on ongoing needs assessments specific to the hotel environment to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

As the lone female trainer, how do you foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all employees, regardless of gender or background?

We prioritize creating an environment where every employee, irrespective of gender or background, feels empowered to pursue growth opportunities. By delineating clear career pathways, we adhere to Suba Hotels' engagement principles. My role as a female trainer adds an additional layer of assurance, encouraging all staff to push beyond perceived limitations. Our extensive training schedule, spanning from early morning to late evening, offers numerous opportunities for employees to enhance and apply new skills directly in the workplace.

What strategies do you employ to assess training needs within Suba Hotels and adapt your training programs accordingly?

At Suba Hotels, we utilize a robust online feedback system accessible via QR scans, inviting guests to share their experiences directly. This, combined with competitive analysis, continuous employee evaluations, and an understanding of evolving business landscapes, enables us to align our training initiatives with the organization's growth trajectory and talent development from within.

In your opinion, what are the most important qualities or skills for a successful trainer in the hospitality industry, and how do you embody these qualities in your role?

The cornerstone qualities for a trainer in our industry are patience, persuasion, and persistence. My aim is to infuse every learning opportunity with enjoyment while preparing employees for diverse guest service situations. By adapting learning opportunities to fit within employees' schedules, we minimize classroom sessions, emphasizing on-the-job learning that meets real-time guest expectations.

How do you stay updated on industry trends and best practices in training and development?

Adhering to the principle that "Learning never stops," I continuously seek new knowledge through sessions led by Mr. Jaspal Singh Bhatia, VP Operations. This commitment ensures I remain at the forefront of training delivery, engaging employees effectively within our learning ecosystem.

Collaboration with other departments is essential in a hotel setting. How do you ensure alignment between training initiatives and the goals of different departments within Suba Hotels?

Aligning our training efforts with departmental objectives is critical to achieving guest satisfaction through standardized processes. This alignment is continuously validated through guest feedback, TripAdvisor rankings, and Google reviews, ensuring our service standards are consistently met or exceeded.

As Assistant Manager Training, you may encounter resistance or skepticism from employees regarding the value of training. How do you address such challenges and effectively communicate the importance of continuous learning and development?

Addressing employee concerns begins with clarifying the personal benefits of training sessions, emphasizing their role in personal development and contribution to building intellectual capital. Demonstrating the direct impact of training on career growth fosters a more receptive attitude towards implementing new skills in their roles.

How do you address such challenges and effectively communicate the importance of continuous learning and development?

Our focus is to make learning initiatives valuable for every employee, facilitating the application of new skills to streamline tasks and enhance service quality. By employing a variety of engaging methodologies such as quizzes, assessments, and role-playing, we ensure that learning is accessible, practical, and directly contributes to enhancing both the guest experience and internal operations.

This Interview is Published Exclusively on HospitalityNews.in.

Discover Tranquility at The Brigadiers Cottage: Your Ideal Summer Retreat

Nishang Narayan

Published on May 4, 2024

This summer, as the bustle of city life grows ever more demanding, find your sanctuary in the tranquil hills of Mussoorie at The Brigadiers Cottage. Known as the Queen of the Hills, Mussoorie offers a refreshing retreat with its cool breezes and misty mornings, setting the stage for a perfect getaway at one of India’s most unique homestays.

The Brigadiers Cottage is not just a place to stay; it’s a journey into a slower, more thoughtful way of life. Owned by Neetu and Aseem Varma, former corporate professionals who traded city life for the mountains, this cottage offers guests a rare blend of luxury and natural beauty. Their commitment to sustainable living is evident in every aspect of the cottage, from its organic farms to the free-roaming poultry and the melodious sounds of a nearby brook.

Guests at The Brigadiers Cottage can experience the joys of farm life with a modern twist. Imagine starting your day collecting fresh eggs for breakfast or taking part in milking the cows. The farm’s produce, including fresh milk, ghee, and honey, is not only organic but also embodies the essence of Himalayan purity.

For those looking to explore beyond the cottage, the Varmas suggest delightful local excursions. Whether it’s enjoying a picnic by the Yamuna River, with tables set up in the shallow waters, or exploring the vibrant Sainji village, known as the corn village of India, there is something for everyone.

The cottage itself, nestled in lush greenery and designed with an eye for elegance, has hosted a variety of distinguished guests, from diplomats to Bollywood stars, each seeking a slice of peace away from the public eye. Its exclusivity and personal touch make it a preferred retreat for those in the know.

If you're seeking a summer escape where you can unwind, explore, and reconnect with your loved ones, The Brigadiers Cottage in Mussoorie offers an unmatched experience. Plan a stay of at least three days to fully embrace the serene surroundings and the vibrant life of Mussoorie.

Call to Action: Ready to experience the serene beauty and organic luxury of The Brigadiers Cottage? Visit our May issue of the e-magazine for a closer look at this enchanting destination and start planning your perfect summer escape. For more details and bookings, follow us on Instagram @brigadierscottagemussoorie or visit www.brigadierscottage.in.

This article aims to entice readers with the charm and unique offerings of The Brigadiers Cottage, encouraging them to explore further in your e-magazine. Let me know if there's anything else you'd like to adjust or add!

Sweetening the World: Shwetha Rajashekar’s Vision at India Sweet House

Nishang Narayan

Published on May 4, 2024

Meet Shwetha Rajashekar, a dynamic entrepreneur who has transitioned from a successful corporate career to revolutionising the desert landscape with India Sweet House. With over a decade of experience at prestigious companies like Goldman Sachs and Tesco, Shwetha brings a wealth of knowledge to her latest venture, aiming to make India Sweet House a globally recognized brand for authentic and sustainable Indian sweets.

In an exclusive interview in our May e-magazine, Shwetha shares her inspiration for starting India Sweet House. The idea was born from her desire to celebrate and preserve India's rich culinary heritage by bringing traditional sweets made with organic ingredients to a broader audience. India Sweet House stands out for its commitment to quality and sustainability, sourcing ingredients from its own organic farm, Karma Farms, ensuring that every bite not only tastes good but also contributes to a healthier planet.

Shwetha discusses the significant role of Karma Farms in maintaining the purity and freshness of their products, from dairy to ghee. This dedication to organic farming highlights a broader commitment to environmental stewardship, which is woven throughout their operations.

Empowerment is also at the core of India Sweet House’s ethos. Shwetha proudly leads an all-woman team, ensuring that the company not only produces delicious sweets but also champions gender equality in the workplace. This empowerment extends to nurturing their talents and fostering an environment where women can thrive and advance.

The article also touches on how India Sweet House balances tradition with innovation. While they cherish traditional recipes, they are not shy about introducing modern twists to suit contemporary tastes, ensuring their delights meet the palates of today’s diverse clientele.

Curious about the blend of tradition and innovation that Shwetha Rajashekar brings to the table with India Sweet House? Learn more about her unique approach to preserving culinary heritage while advancing sustainability in our exclusive May feature. Discover the full story and get inspired by her vision in this month's issue of Hospitality News e-magazine. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @indiahospitalitynews to stay updated with the latest trends and inspiring stories from the world of hospitality.

Mastering MICE: Varun Sharma's Strategic Play at Clarks Exotica

Nishang Narayan

Published on May 4, 2024

Join us in an enlightening conversation with Varun Sharma, the visionary General Manager, Operations at Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa. Sharma's journey at the resort began in 2014, where he commenced as an Executive Chef. Over the span of 19 years, his career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Through a combination of exceptional skills and a solid educational background in hospitality management, Sharma has ascended to a pivotal leadership role within the resort. His dedication, expertise, and years of experience have undoubtedly contributed to his success and the prosperity of the establishment.

In our May e-magazine, Sharma opens up about the integral role of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events in the hospitality industry, particularly at Clarks Exotica. He explains how these events substantially boost occupancy rates and overall revenue, especially during off-peak periods, and significantly enhance the resort’s reputation and brand visibility.

Sharma also unveils some of the strategic initiatives Clarks Exotica has embraced to captivate the MICE market. These include offering bespoke services, such as customised event planning and state-of-the-art facilities, which provide unique and memorable experiences for guests. Additionally, Sharma touches on the importance of technological integration in enhancing event management and guest satisfaction, using tools like AI and virtual reality to create immersive and personalised experiences.

The interview also highlights how Sharma’s leadership fosters an environment that prioritises staff development and service excellence, key factors that contribute to the resort’s success. His insights provide a glimpse into the complexities of managing a top-tier luxury resort and the innovative approaches that ensure its thriving presence in the competitive hospitality market.

Are you captivated by Varun Sharma’s innovative leadership and keen insights at Clarks Exotica? Delve into the full interview for an in-depth exploration of his strategies and successes in our May issue of Hospitality News e-magazine. Follow @indiahospitalitynews on Instagram to stay updated with the latest trends and expert perspectives in the hospitality industry.