A comparison of graduating seniors who receive job offers and those who do not according to hospitality recruiters’ selection criteria

This study used an exploratory mixed methods approach to identify the characteristics possessed by hospitality graduating seniors who receive job offers. Quantitative analyses reveal that: (a) seniors who receive job offers are different from those who do not in relevant work/internship experience, perceived person–organization and person–job fit, leadership/career preparedness, professionalism, and interview behaviors and (b) student characteristics have various effects on recruiters’ hiring decisions in different hospitality segments. Suggestions are provided to help students better prepare for a hospitality career and hospitality programs better educate students for employments. Future research is advocated to address the limitations.

► This exploratory mixed methods study profiled hospitality students with job offers.
► The results revealed five factors influencing recruiters’ hiring decisions.
► Relevant job experience, PO/PJ fit, & leadership/career preparedness were identified.
► Professionalism & interview behaviors were recognized as emerging factors.
► These factors have various effects on recruiters’ hiring decisions by segments.