Hospitality is one of the world’s largest industries. This industry includes hotels, pubs and restaurants, and leisure clubs.
Hospitality is the third largest employer group, and retains up to 10% of UK employment. It has seen faster growth in the last year that other industries.
In this fast paste industry, hiring new employees is vital to meet fluctuating demands and seasonal requirements.
For businesses operating in this industry it is vital that they have the required employment practices in place to ensure they are compliant with employment legislation. Practices include:
Employment Contracts
Having fully compliant employment contracts in place in line with current employment legislation.
Employers are required to issue employment contracts outlining the terms and conditions to employees, and including benefits and entitlements.
Policies and Procedures
A staff handbook incorporating policies and procedures, outlines the rules and associated procedures, some of the policies included will be:
- Working Time Regulations
- Health and Safety
- Training
- Handling customer complaints
- Tipping Policy
- Grievance Procedure
- Disciplinary Procedure
- Whistleblowing Policy
Talent Plan
Having a strategic Talent Plan designed to ensure that the business has the resources in place at the right time to support the operation is key. The focus of this plan includes a skills gap analysis to identify the current skills and any missing skills, training requirements, and a link to the recruitment programme to ensure that there are sufficient resources in place, including peek times e.g. seasonal resource requirements.
Hospitality provides employment for all ages, and is known for providing employment to workers aged between 16 and 24 years, in roles within bars, restaurants and shops, giving flexibility to work around education and other commitments. Having policies and procedures in place, and legally compliant employment contracts, supports the business to provide work to meet the individuals needs and the flexibility required.
If you are a business in the hospitality industry and need support with your employment and HR practices, reach out to our team of HR Consultants on 0345 646 0406 or fill out our online enquiry form.