4 tips for government agencies hiring diverse students, recent grads, and other early career candidates for hospitality jobs

Government agencies have a unique opportunity to lead by example in creating inclusive workplaces that reflect the diverse communities they serve. Hiring students, recent graduates, and other early-career candidates from diverse backgrounds for hospitality jobs is not just a matter of social responsibility but also a strategic advantage.

A diverse workforce brings a variety of perspectives, experiences, and ideas, which can lead to more innovative solutions and improved public services. In the hospitality sector, where interaction with the public is frequent, having employees who can relate to and understand the needs of a diverse population enhances customer service and builds trust within the community.

Moreover, by focusing on hiring early-career candidates from diverse backgrounds, government agencies can foster a culture of inclusion from the ground up. This not only helps in bridging the gap in representation but also ensures that the next generation of leaders is equipped with a deep understanding of diversity and inclusion.

Providing opportunities for young, diverse talent to enter the workforce helps reduce employment disparities and contributes to economic equity. Additionally, these initiatives can improve the agency’s reputation, making it more attractive to potential employees and partners who value diversity and inclusion as core principles. Overall, such hiring practices are essential for building a resilient, adaptive, and empathetic workforce that can meet the evolving needs of society.

We consulted four HR executives and CEOs who are at the forefront of recruiting for the hospitality sector. Their insights reveal innovative strategies for government agencies who want to draw in early-career candidates, from crafting compelling storytelling campaigns to highlighting organizational culture and growth opportunities.

• Develop a Storytelling Campaign
• Offer Internships and Apprenticeships
• Leverage Educational Partnerships
• Showcase Culture and Growth Opportunities

Develop a Storytelling Campaign

I have found it very effective to develop a storytelling campaign featuring video interviews and personal stories of diverse hospitality professionals in the agency, such as chefs, waiters, hotel managers, event managers, tour guides, and housekeepers. My best tip is to highlight their career paths, challenges, and successes to inspire potential candidates. This approach showcases the diversity within the agency and highlights the various career paths and opportunities available in hospitality. 

It is the best way to engage with potential candidates in a more personal and impactful way by using video as a medium. It allows for the unique experiences and perspectives of individuals from different backgrounds and cultures, creating a sense of relatability and connection for potential candidates. This can also help break stereotypes and misconceptions about the hospitality industry, showing that it is a dynamic and inclusive field with room for growth and development. 

This strategy has successfully attracted a diverse pool of early-career candidates to hospitality roles within government agencies. My secret tip is to share these storytelling videos on various platforms, such as social media, career websites, and even screen them during career fairs or events. This allows for a wider reach and increases the chances of reaching potential candidates who may not have considered hospitality as a career option before.

Daniel Cook, HR/Marketing Executive, Mullen and Mullen

Offer Internships and Apprenticeships

Hospitality is a hands-on business, and any effort to attract diverse and early-career individuals needs to reflect that. This means offering internships and apprenticeships that provide practical experience and clear pathways to full-time employment, making sure to market through diverse channels, including social media platforms, community organizations, and minority-serving educational institutions. I’d go so far as to go down to the high school level, though your focus should primarily be on vocational schools and colleges to create a pipeline of diverse talent.

Dragos Badea, CEO, Yarooms

Leverage Educational Partnerships

To attract diverse, early-career candidates to hospitality roles, I recommend leveraging partnerships with local educational institutions. By collaborating with colleges and vocational schools, government agencies can create internship programs and job fairs that highlight opportunities within the hospitality sector. This approach not only provides students with hands-on experience but also showcases the agency’s commitment to inclusivity and growth in the industry. In my experience, building these relationships fosters a pipeline of talent that is not only skilled but also diverse, reflecting the community you serve.

Ketie Zhang, Founder, Ketie Story

Showcase Culture and Growth Opportunities

Showcasing the vibrant culture and growth opportunities in hospitality can really appeal to diverse talent. Sharing testimonials from employees who have advanced in their careers makes it relatable. Plus, offering flexible scheduling can make these roles more attractive, showing that the agency values work-life balance.

Josh Ladick, President, GSA Focus