Why Do Fresh Hotel Graduates Start with Low Salaries?

The starting salaries for fresh graduates entering the hotel industry vary widely. While some may earn around 8,000 if they apply directly to a hotel, others might receive around 15,000 upon selection through college interviews. This discrepancy highlights the multifaceted nature of the hospitality sector, particularly when it comes to the initial compensation of new entrants.

The Hotel Business and Its Unpredictable Nature

The hotel industry is as unpredictable as some of its employees, often driven by financial constraints. Each hotel has its own budget for staffing, and the variability in these budgets can significantly impact new hires. Additionally, the high drop rate among new employees is a significant issue, stemming from various factors such as a lack of knowledge, health concerns, and unfamiliarity with organizational processes.

The Risk and Investment of New Joiners

Hotels invest substantial amounts in new employees. This investment includes providing uniforms, food, accommodation, and travel facilities, depending on the hotel's policies. However, the risk is high when a new employee leaves, as the hotel has to re-invest in another individual, incurring both financial and time costs. Furthermore, the ongoing monthly and annual salary obligations add to this investment, making the risk and costs even greater.

Training and Work Pressure

Initial months in the hotel industry are often reserved for extensive training. Fresh graduates require substantial guidance to adapt to the work culture and operational standards, leading to a period of low productivity or even none at all. This low productivity is one of the primary reasons for the low starting salaries of fresh graduates. While the hotel doesn't mistrust its employees, the pressure to perform and meet high standards from the outset can be overwhelming for new hires.

The Reality of Freshers in the Hotel Industry

The question itself emphasizes the term freshers, highlighting the unique challenges faced by new graduates in the hotel industry. These challenges include:

Initial training and orientation, which consume significant time and resources, reducing immediate productivity. The high variability in job retention rates, leading to higher risks for both employees and employers. The financial constraints faced by hotels, which influence starting salary scales. The pressure to perform upon joining, which can be daunting for fresh graduates.

Despite these challenges, the hospitality sector continues to attract new graduates due to the diverse career paths and opportunities it offers. Understanding the factors that influence starting salaries is crucial for both aspiring hotel professionals and those recruiting new talent.