Applied to:
This award is designed to reward companies that demonstrate a strong commitment to identifying and recruiting top talent, as well as effectively integrating new employees into their organization. Companies with exceptional talent acquisition programs understand the importance of recruiting the best candidates to ensure the highest level of service to their customers. These programs may include strategies and processes such as innovative recruitment methods, effective onboarding programs, and ongoing support for new employees.
The project:
The 'Strong Start' onboarding process aims to provide new team members with a comprehensive, customized, and engaging learning journey at every level. Launched in 2016, this program was developed through a collaboration between Heads of Department, People & Culture, and Learning & Development teams to cover various aspects of Minor Hotels' culture, brand, service, job tasks, behaviors, and compliance. 'Strong Start' has been rolled out across the organization, ensuring all 34,000 team members in 56 countries begin their Minor journey with a consistent and positive experience.
The dynamic program's modular structure allows for full customization and integration of the latest trends and best practices. Digital tools, such as eCampus powered by Skillsoft’s Percipio and the in-house social media platform Yammer, make the process flexible and interactive. This process starts as soon as new team members are hired and continues throughout their first year. Department Heads and Learning Managers work together to ensure onboarding content is digestible, interactive, and relevant, providing mentorship to support new team members.
The onboarding programs, customized based on the team member’s level and function, include Minor Hotels, Property and Department Orientation, meeting the Senior Leadership team, Brand Programs, Service Excellence Training, Job Task Inventory & New Hire Training, Behaviors for Success, and Compliance Programs. Specialized onboarding programs are available for certain functions, such as New General Manager Onboarding and New Manager Orientation. For corporate office team members, new joiners can meet with Minor’s Founder and Chairman William E. Heinecke.
Key modules include brand-training programs like "Live Avani" and "Discovering Anantara," "Customer Service Leap: From Good to Great," and "Behaviors for Success." New hires receive a Job Task Inventory to guide their development, with check-ins at 30, 60, and 90 days. Digital tools, eCampus and Yammer, support self-paced learning, virtual classes, and engagement with co-workers.
For new managers, the "Connect New Manager Orientation" offers four modules over 90 days, including asynchronous and live sessions for exchanging insights. The New Hire Training includes certification as a Job Skills Coach for section level and above.
The Hospitality Awards celebrate innovation and excellence and highlight the most creative initiatives in a sector that is constantly and rapidly changing hospitality.
