Staying Informed: A Comprehensive Guide to Keeping Up with Hospitality and Hotel Industry Updates

Staying updated in the hospitality and hotel industry is crucial for professionals and businesses looking to thrive in this ever-evolving sector. There are numerous organizations, conferences, and platforms that can serve as valuable resources to stay informed. This article explores various options and provides insights on how to effectively stay in touch with the latest news, trends, and best practices.

Industry Organizations for Staying Informed

The hospitality and hotel industry are supported by a network of national and international organizations that focus on operations, marketing, and technology. Here are some prominent organizations that can help you stay well-informed:

HEDNA - This organization hosts US, Europe, and Asia committees/meetings. Their meetings offer a platform to discuss and advance industry best practices, standards, and solutions. Participation is flexible, and you can learn and grow by organizing, presenting, or committee work as you see fit. HTNG - Though not as global as HEDNA, HTNG is an excellent resource for those in the hospitality industry. They offer a range of services and publications that focus on enhancing the guest experience. HiTec Global - Specializes in technology trends and innovations in the hospitality sector. They are a go-to source for understanding how technology can enhance guest experiences and streamline operational processes. HSMAI - A global organization that focuses on marketing and sales in the hospitality industry. They offer a wealth of resources, including publications, training, and networking opportunities. AHLA - The American Hotel and Lodging Association is a powerful organization that represents hoteliers and works to advance the hotel industry through advocacy, education, and research.

These organizations are primarily focused on operations, marketing, and technology. They offer excellent subcommittees that help advance industry practices through publishing, endorsement, and certification. Membership and participation levels can vary, but the benefits are immense for those willing to commit time and energy.

Staying Updated Through Professional Networks

LinkedIn is an invaluable professional networking tool that can help you stay informed about the latest trends and updates in the hospitality and hotel industry. Think of it as the 'Facebook' for business professionals. By following influential industry figures, company pages of hotels and resorts, and joining relevant hospitality groups, you can receive valuable updates straight to your feed.

Here are a few groups I recommend joining on LinkedIn:

Hospitality Trends American Hotel and Lodging Association Hotel Group Network

Regularly following and engaging with these groups can provide you with the latest industry news, best practices, and networking opportunities. For example, you can follow my LinkedIn account, where I frequently post updates on hospitality trends and insights.

The Role of Skift in Staying Informed

Another valuable resource for staying informed about the hospitality industry is Skift. Skift is a digital media platform that provides comprehensive coverage of global travel and tourism news, trends, and insights. It is a must-read for anyone in the hospitality industry as it offers detailed analysis and impactful information that can shape business strategies.

By subscribing to Skift, you can stay ahead of the curve on new technologies, business models, and global travel trends. Their coverage of industry news can help you make well-informed decisions and adapt to the evolving needs of your customers.

Conclusion

Staying informed is essential for anyone in the hospitality and hotel industry. By leveraging industry organizations like HEDNA, HTNG, HiTec Global, HSMAI, and AHLA, as well as professional networks like LinkedIn and valuable resources like Skift, you can stay ahead of the competition and ensure your business remains relevant.

Remember, the hospitality industry is constantly changing, and staying informed is not a one-time task but an ongoing commitment. Embrace the opportunities to learn, grow, and network, and you will be well-positioned to succeed in this dynamic sector.