Here’s a riddle:
How can one transform a job that requires face-to-face interactions into remote-friendly position?
The answer is simple:
With the help of a global pandemic.
It forced hotels, restaurants, travel companies, etc. to rethink their business models and adapt quickly. As a result, they had to embrace remote work.
But we’re not just talking about employees working from home. This shift encompasses a comprehensive reimagining of how hospitality services are delivered, managed, and enhanced through technology.
So, how has remote work changed the hospitality industry? And how exactly did modern tech help?
Take a look:
How Tech Can Help With Remote Work in the Hospitality Industry
Did you know that only 2% of people in the hospitality industry work remotely?
That’s because many people don’t know how to integrate tech in their workflow, nor the benefits it brings.
Here are the main advantages:
- Enhanced operational efficiency – technology enables the automation and streamlining of various operational processes in the hospitality industry. For example, management systems can help with the handling of reservations, inventory, and billing.
- Real-time data reports – this is crucial for informed decision-making. There are numerous data analytics tools that provide up-to-date information on bookings, guest preferences, and operational metrics.
- Advanced collaboration – thanks to platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, communication between different employes is seamless. They also help with project management.
- Enhanced customer experience – technology enables you to collect and analyse customer data. That way your hospitality business can offer personalized services.
- Improved cybersecurity – tools such as end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure VPNs protect sensitive customer and operational data.
You can checkout software such as:
- Cloudbeds
- Revinate
- RoomRaccoon
- Salesforce for Hospitality
- ZohoCRM
Or you can get one developed in-house.
Truth is, you can outsource the development or many work tasks to remote employees. For example, you can have a designated team to handle reservations, manage employee payrolls, or handle your hotel’s website. They don’t need to be on-site to do that. In fact, you can benefit greatly from nearshoring in those scenarios.
Now let’s answer the burning question:
How Is Remote Work Impacting the Hospitality Industry
We figured out that remote working is not impossible in the hospitality industry. It’s all thanks to tech. It really did change the hospitality landscape.
Here’s how:
Enhanced Digital Infrastructure
Modern technology is the solution to many issues.
Thanks to cloud computing, people in the hospitality businesses can access and manage data and applications over the internet. This is, as we know, crucial for remote operations. Hotels and travel agencies, for instance, can now handle bookings, customer queries, and backend operations from anywhere in the world.
It’s easy to see that hospitality software is the future.
As a (very crucial) side effect, this has opened a lot of new jobs. After all, someone needs to ensure the continuous support and maintenance of the digital systems. This, by the way, can also be done remotely.
Adoption of Virtual Collaboration Tools
The pandemic has forced many hospitality businesses to start using virtual collaboration tools. You know, the likes of Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Slack.
They have many uses:
First and foremost, communication. You can talk to your team at any time, no matter their location. Just keep time zones in mind. That also helps with collaboration.
Some of the aforementioned tools even have project management extensions. Microsoft teams, for example, has a Planner app. It helps a lot with distributing daily tasks.
Training and onboarding are another plus. The shift to remote work has led to the development of virtual training programs. Those are particularly beneficial in the hospitality industry, where staff turnover is high, and training needs are constant.
Increased Cybersecurity Awareness
We all know at least one person, who has mindlessly shared their data with a shady website. And we all know at least one business that has suffered a data breach.
So, while cybersecurity seems like an important topic to be educated about, many people know next to nothing.
The hospitality industry handles vast amounts of sensitive customer data. It includes but is not limited to:
- personal information
- payment details
- travel preferences
Unfortunately, remote work is expanding the attack surface for cyber threats. This also means there is an increased focus on cybersecurity measures.
To ensure secure remote access and to protect sensitive information, you’ll need to implement:
- Multi-factor authentication methods
- VPNs
- Firewalls
- SSL certificates for websites and reservations platforms
- Cybersecurity trainings for your employees
Automation of Tasks and Services
You can automate a lot of tasks related to hospitality.
Even front desk and guest services!
Thanks to certain tools, you can easily streamline check-in/check-out processes, improve guest communication, and enhance overall guest experience.
Let’s use ALICE as an example. This app has mobile guest engagement and request management features. It can help you automate guest messaging, request management, concierge services, and housekeeping management.
Another huge plus:
Your employees will be able to check schedules, answer questions, help guests, and more, even if they aren’t on-site.
You can also use suitable tools to automate marketing and guest engagement tasks. MailChimp and HubSpot are great options that will make your life easier.
Improved Cost Management
Do you know what remote work does?
It saves you money.
Recent research shows that employers can save as much as $11,000 per employee if they switch to remote work.
That’s quite the impact that remote work has!
We’ll share a secret with you – outsourcing also helps. In fact, it can significantly reduce costs while maintaining high-quality services. IT outsourcing allows hospitality businesses to access expert services and the latest technology without the overhead costs of an in-house team. Which saves money.
Wanna find a suitable tech expert to help with this endeavour? We can be your allies!
Get in touch today and we’ll figure everything out together.
Wrap Up
Remote work does have its place within the hospitality industry.
It offers numerous benefits that enhance operational efficiency, employee productivity, customer experience, cybersecurity, and cost management. All you need to do is embrace the necessary digital tools and outsourcing IT functions. That way you can easily adapt to the demands of a remote-first world.
This is the way to remain competitive and resilient in an ever-evolving market. And it is not a bandwagon you want to miss.
FAQ
What technology is used for remote working?
A lot of technology is involved in remote working. On top of the list are collaboration tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom used for communication. Hospitality businesses employ property management systems (PMS) like Cloudbeds and Opera for operational management. Cybersecurity solutions are also crucial. Most companies use multi-factor authentication and encryption. Other technology examples include automated customer service platforms, AI-powered chatbots, and CRM systems.
How is technology used in the hospitality industry?
Technology in the hospitality industry is used to streamline operations through workflow management systems, collaboration tools, automated customer support, and more. Tech solutions also enable secure data management, optimize pricing and revenue management, and support marketing efforts.
Which technology allows for remote service?
Technology that allows for remote service includes cloud computing and virtual private networks (VPNs). Also, collaboration tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, property management systems (PMS), and AI-powered chatbots. You can use project management systems like Asana, Trello, or Monday to organise your workflow.