Internships are a great way to gain experience in the hospitality industry. For example, an internship at a hotel can allow you to work in guest relations, food, and beverage service, or event planning. Additionally, many hospitality internships offer mentorship programs, connecting you with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and advice. In addition, internships provide a great opportunity to network and make connections that can be helpful later in your career.
Many hotels, resorts, and restaurants offer internships to students or recent graduates interested in a career in hospitality. Internships can last anywhere from a few weeks to a year, typically involving working in various departments within the company. This can give interns a well-rounded view of the hospitality industry and help them decide which area they want to pursue. Additionally, internships often lead to full-time jobs after graduation.
With that said, it’s important to note that there are pros and cons to consider before deciding whether or not to participate in one of these programs.
Pros of hospitality internship programs
Allows you to get real work experience
There are many benefits to participating in hotel internships, especially if you’re interested in a career in hospitality. One of the biggest advantages is that you’ll gain valuable work experience that can’t be learned in a classroom. You’ll have the opportunity to learn how to handle different types of guests, resolve conflicts, and manage your time effectively. In addition, you’ll get to see first-hand how a hotel or restaurant operates, from the front desk to the kitchen. Internship programs can also be a great way to network and make connections that might lead to a full-time job offer down the road.
It gives you networking opportunities
A hospital internship program can be beneficial to career starters in many ways. One of the most beneficial factors is the networking opportunities that it provides. You will be able to meet different kinds of people in the hospital, from the doctors and nurses to the janitors. These people can be helpful in your future career endeavors.
You might even meet your future boss while you are interning! Another great thing about hospital internships is that you will be able to learn a lot about the inner workings of a hospital. This knowledge can be helpful if you decide to pursue a career in hospital administration or even become a doctor yourself one day. If you are considering a hospitality career, an internship program at a hospital should definitely be on your list of options.
It helps you choose a specialty
One of the biggest benefits is that it can help you choose a specialty. With so many different facets of the hospitality industry, from event planning to hotel management, an internship is a great way to gain experience in your desired area and figure out if it’s the right fit for you.
It helps you build self-confidence
There are many internship programs available in the hospitality industry. These programs can offer various benefits to participants, including the opportunity to build self-confidence. Through an internship program, you can interact with customers and complete tasks independently. This can help you develop confidence in your abilities and prepare you for a successful career in hospitality. In addition, internships can provide you with valuable experience that can make you more attractive to potential employers. Participating in an internship program can greatly improve your skills and expand your knowledge of the hospitality industry.
It boosts your résumé
A hospitality internship is a great way to boost your résumé. Not only will it allow you to gain hands-on experience in the hospitality industry, but it will also allow you to develop important skills that can be helpful in any career. For example, interning at a hotel will allow you to learn about customer service, bookkeeping, and event planning. And if you’re interested in pursuing a career in hotel management, an internship can be a great way to get your foot in the door. Furthermore, many hospitality internships offer stipends or pay, which can help offset the cost of living while working. So if you’re looking for a way to improve your résumé and gain real-world experience, a hospitality internship is a great option.
Cons of hospitality internship programs
Hospitality internship programs are often seen as a great way to get your foot in the door of the hospitality industry. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.
You’re treated like an assistant
One of the biggest complaints from interns is that they are treated like assistants rather than given the opportunity to shadow and learn from more senior staff. This can be frustrating, as you may feel like you’re not gaining the skills and experience you were promised. Additionally, many hospitality internships are unpaid, which can pose a financial strain if you’re not receiving college credit or stipends.
It keeps you from entering the workforce
Another downside is that hospitality internship programs can keep you from actually entering the workforce. Many internships are unpaid, meaning you may have to take on additional debt to participate. Additionally, internships can be very competitive, and only a limited number of positions are available each year. As a result, it can be difficult to secure an internship and even harder to turn it into a full-time job. If you’re not careful, you may find yourself stuck in an internship for months or even years without any real progress in your career.
You are not guaranteed to get a job
One of the main cons of hospitality internship programs is that it doesn’t guarantee you a job. The internship may only be for a set period of time, and the hotel may not have any open positions when the internship ends. Even if you intern at a hotel for the summer and do a great job, there’s no guarantee that you’ll be offered a full-time position.
PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM