By Laura Lee Blake, ESQ., AAHOA President & CEO
Lincoln’s Wisdom for Modern Hoteliers
President Abraham Lincoln once declared, “Labor is prior to, and independent of, capital. Capital is only the fruit of labor.” That sentiment is more relevant today than ever. In the hospitality industry, we often focus on the bottom line and return on investment, but we might easily forget that our greatest asset walks in the door every day: Our workforce.
Without the front desk associate greeting the guest, the housekeeper ensuring a clean stay, or the maintenance worker fixing what is broken, there is no hospitality experience. Labor is the foundation on which our industry stands.
The Changing Face of Work
Today’s workforce has different needs, and rightfully so. Workers want fair wages, flexible scheduling, opportunities to grow, and to be treated with dignity. These are not unreasonable demands but essential to retaining talent in a competitive economy.
The hospitality industry, known for its resilience, must now be known for its adaptability. We must view our workforce not as a challenge to be managed, but as a strength to be cultivated. This means going beyond traditional approaches and embracing innovation in training, leadership development, and workplace culture.
A Call to Lead with Purpose
At AAHOA, we are working tirelessly to support hoteliers’ adaptation to these workforce changes. From advocating for SBA loan increases and protection for hoteliers from frivolous lawsuits to launching new initiatives that empower our members, our mission is clear: Ensure the long-term sustainability of our businesses by investing in the people who run them.
Remember that strong leadership is not just about making tough decisions but about recognizing where opportunity lies. Right now, that opportunity is in our workforce. If we build careers instead of just offering jobs, we can strengthen both our businesses and the industry as a whole.
As we look toward the future, let us not forget that more than one in 25 American workers is employed in hospitality. Our industry is powered by people, and when we invest in them, we invest in long-term success.
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