How to Use LinkedIn to Propel Your Hospitality Career to Senior Leadership Roles
- Bertran Moreno
- Jan 17
- 3 min read
In today’s competitive hospitality industry, securing a senior leadership role requires more than just an impressive résumé and industry connections. LinkedIn has become a vital tool for professionals, offering unparalleled opportunities to showcase expertise, network strategically, and position yourself as a thought leader. If you're aiming to climb the ladder in hospitality, here’s how you can leverage LinkedIn effectively.
Here's how you can use LinkedIn to propel your hospitality career to senior leadership roles:
1. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile: Your Digital First Impression
Your profile is often the first touchpoint for recruiters, peers, or potential employers. Here's how to make it count:
Professional Headshot: A high-quality, industry-appropriate photo helps build credibility. Aim for approachable yet professional.
Headline Matters: Use your headline to reflect your current role and aspirations. For example, “Dynamic Hospitality Leader | Driving F&B Excellence | Passionate About Guest Experiences.”
About Section: This is your elevator pitch. Highlight your leadership skills, key achievements, and what sets you apart. Include relevant keywords like "luxury hospitality," "F&B innovation," or "asset management" to appear in search results.
Showcase Results: Use measurable achievements, like “Increased F&B revenue by 20% over two years” or “Successfully opened three 5-star properties across Europe.”
2. Build a Network That Matters
LinkedIn is all about quality connections, not just quantity.
Targeted Connections: Focus on connecting with General Managers, Regional Directors, Asset Managers, and recruiters in the hospitality space. Send personalized connection requests mentioning shared interests or goals.
Join Industry Groups: Participate in discussions in groups like “Hospitality Leadership Forum” or “Hotel & Resort Investor”
Follow Companies: Keep an eye on brands you admire, like Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, or boutique chains, to stay updated on news and job postings.
3. Engage and Share Content
Active engagement on LinkedIn can position you as an industry thought leader.
Post Regular Updates: Share your achievements, insights, or even lessons learned from challenges. For example, “Here’s what I learned leading a multicultural team in a high-pressure F&B environment.”
Comment on Posts: Add meaningful insights to discussions from industry leaders. This shows your expertise and builds visibility.
Publish Articles: Write about trends or innovations in hospitality, like “The Future of Sustainability in Luxury Hotels” or “How Technology is Redefining the Guest Experience.”
4. Leverage LinkedIn’s Job Search Features
LinkedIn’s job search functionality is one of its most powerful tools.
Set Job Alerts: Stay ahead by setting alerts for senior hospitality roles in regions or companies of interest.
Use Open to Work Badge: If you’re actively looking, enable the “Open to Work” feature, which discreetly signals recruiters.
Apply Strategically: Tailor your applications to showcase how your skills match the role. Use LinkedIn’s “Easy Apply” to streamline the process, but always follow up with a direct message to stand out.
5. Build Relationships with Recruiters
Recruiters specializing in hospitality roles can be instrumental in your career growth.
Be Proactive: Send a brief message introducing yourself, highlighting your aspirations, and attaching your CV.
Stay on Their Radar: Periodically update them on your career milestones or availability for new opportunities.
6. Highlight Certifications and Skills
Certifications from specialised hospitality institutions can add weight to your profile.
List All Certifications: Include courses like “Revenue Management,” “Sustainable Hospitality,” or “Luxury Brand Strategy.”
Endorsements and Recommendations: Request endorsements from peers and managers for leadership, innovation, and problem-solving skills.
7. Monitor and Refine Your Digital Presence
Consistency and attention to detail are key.
Stay Active: Regular activity keeps your profile at the top of search results.
Audit Your Profile: Ensure it aligns with your résumé, avoiding discrepancies.
Engage Globally: The hospitality industry thrives on diversity; connect with professionals worldwide to broaden your horizons.
Why LinkedIn is Crucial for Hospitality Leaders
The hospitality industry is built on relationships, and LinkedIn serves as a powerful platform to extend your network, amplify your brand, and uncover opportunities. By showcasing your expertise and engaging with industry professionals, you position yourself as the leader recruiters and employers are seeking.
So, as you set your career goals for 2025, make LinkedIn your ally in reaching those milestones. A few minutes a day spent updating your profile, engaging with content, or connecting with peers could be the key to your next big opportunity.
