Hospitality success in 3 words: Network, Network, Network

Kerrie Hannaford Jun 15, 2020

When I joined the hospitality industry, it immediately felt like home to me, although the reasons for it weren't as obvious. It was not because of the impeccable opportunities that our commerce offered or the flamboyant nature of the business, or even the unending perks. It became clear to me over time that it had more to do with the multitude of roles I was expected to play in my job. At every level of my career, hospitality has remained my passion. Although in my early years, I did have a keen interest in nursing, hospitality took hold and I went along with it.

I've been part of the Accor family for the past 15 years. After stints at IHG and Starwood Hotels in Australia, I joined Accor in 2005. In 2007, I became Head-Sales, Distribution and Revenue Management for Australia, later moving to New York City as the Vice President-Global Sales (North America). In 2013, I became Senior Vice President, wherein my role was to cover the management of Central America and the Caribbean Hotels, in addition to USA and Canada.

Prior to joining the team at Accor, India, I returned to the Pacific region as Area Director-Sales and Marketing, Accor (New Zealand, Fiji and French Polynesia), leading the sales, marketing and distribution for all brands and hotels within the region.

Sales and Marketing have always been a very dynamic profile, with its fair share of highs and lows. Knowing how to navigate a “no” into a “you will say yes in the future” comes from a never-ending passion. I love what I do and there is no other way to put it. One feels invigorated and eager to take on daily challenges and I always encourage myself to achieve excellence.

The unknown continues to inspire and drive me every single day. Not knowing what the day ahead will bring, challenges me to be flexible, creative and mindful of the fact that although some things cannot be changed, I can adjust my attitude to yield a positive outcome. Of course, the unknown can arrive as disappointments, but it's unfair to expect a good day every day. Moreover, no success story is ever built without failures. Through all the hardships and challenges, I have really tried to retain my faith in myself and others, and that’s simply what has kept me going.

You will find your own way, you must trust that. Fear is good but don’t try to silence it. Instead, listen to it and address it. Don’t avoid risk because of the fear of failing. Be courageous, take that step, and leap out of your comfort zone – you will be surprised at what you can accomplish.

All my years of travelling and living amidst various cultures have taught me to make my own space, one initiative at a time. On my journey, I have found motivation through developing, teaching, training and leading teams. In our business, no two days are the same, but I can say my team inspires me every day. I feel I am only as good as my team and for my brand to truly be successful, my team needs to know they are valued and are always learning. It’s equally important for me to know their likes and dislikes, you need to be empathetic and rational to set an example.

LEADING IS ABOUT LETTING GO

Another key attribute of a good leader is to let go. We all stumble and it’s natural to make mistakes. Therefore, forgiveness and understanding is important. While all this does make a good leader, do not forget to have fun! At the end of the day, it’s about enjoying and embracing what you do. If you truly love your job, the feeling becomes contagious.

Countless role models have come into my life who have inspired me. All these years, I have consciously surrounded myself with people who challenge, inspire and intrigue me. To me, all women from around the globe from all walks of life, young and old, who have stood up, spoken out, and dared to defy, are role models. The best mentors and guides have been the lessons I’ve learned from women and men that I have met on my journey.

DON'T TRY TO BE LIKE THE BOYS

It’s no secret that our industry has always been a male-dominated one. Times are changing though, for all the women trying to make a place for themselves. Don’t try to be like the boys, because you will never be like them. Instead, focus on doing things your way, celebrate small wins, learn from your failures, and keep going.

For all aspiring women hoteliers, I can’t stress more on the fact that it’s imperative to keep your health in check, both mental and physical, and find that balance. Also, a tip to always keep handy for this industry - network, network and do more networking, and never give up – just remember someone is always watching and will recognise your talent.