A recent industry article on www.hospitalitynet.org entitled”Recruiting Tourism Workers, The Time is Now!” by Michele Laliberte, emphasizes the recruiting challenges employers face in today’s hot labour market. The article provides tips on what employers can do to recruit and maintain high quality workers in their organizations. Laliberte suggests some simple things employers can do:
• Pay employees what they are worth – minimum wages often produce minimum performance. Although quality obviously costs more, it can make a difference.
• Hire the right person for the job – take the time to define your profile of the ideal candidate and hire those people that fit in with the organization.
• Take some time – welcome your new employee and take some time to go over your organization’s values. Listen to your new employees; communicate with them so they know what is expected of them and give them time to integrate into the workplace.
• Recognize the value of the work – Motivate staff by highlighting the good things about their job, for example the opportunity to work with people and to contribute to a customer’s positive experience. Business will thrive with happy, motivated staff.

• Create a workplace where people want to work – Compensation is not the only thing that counts. The work atmosphere, job enrichment, advancement and training opportunities, flexible work schedules, team spirit and the proper work tools are all elements that help retain employees. Appreciate your employees and they will continue to provide exceptional service to your customers.

It is important to encourage interest in working at your company. Companies must ensure their employees are proud to work for them and proud of their service. Building a reputation as an employer that treats their employees with respect means you will have satisfied employees and customers.
For more information and tips on retaining and inspiring staff check out the Web site www.go2hr.ca, a HR resource Web site for those involved in the BC tourism industry.