Human resource management : an employee perspective of the HR function in the hotel industry

Abstract

The main purpose of this study is to examine employees’ perspectives of the HR function in their hotel. The benefits of having an HR function will also be drawn up. The research question is to understand what employees think about HR in the hotel industry and the rationale behind their thinking. In order to carry out this study, a total of 15 in-depth interviews were carried out with managers and employees of different grades from four five star hotels and one four star hotel around Malta. The responses of these interviews were then analysed so as to establish what the interviewees believe to be the main functions carried out by HR and to examine the benefits of these functions. The major result of this study shows that HR is not an added function however it has to be incorporated within the organisation’s goals and management processes. The HR function also contributes to business strategies and brings value to the organisation. Moreover, in order to have a successful business, HR must ensure that all strategies are well communicated with all the employees of the company, regardless of their job position. However numerous limitations were encountered so therefore recommendations were drawn up which may assist HR personnel to keep improving. The main recommendation for the HR function is to ensure that it is being given adequate importance and attention that it needs to produce excellent results.