Important competency requirements for managers in the hospitality industry

This research attempted to identify core competencies that are important to the success of future managers in the hospitality industry. A total of 296 usable questionnaires collected from hospitality managers and students in the Southeastern United States were used for analysis. Factor analysis generated six dimensions of core competencies: hospitality skills, interpersonal skills, supervisory skills, food and beverage management skills, leadership, and communication skills. Analysis on the perceived importance of the six identified competencies for the success of future hospitality managers revealed significant differences between managers and students on food and beverage management skills, interpersonal skills, and leadership. Findings provide hospitality educators and managers with useful insights when planning curriculum for enhancement of the skills and competencies of future leaders.