Did you know?
• Housekeepers tuck in roughly 24 beds per day, with each portion of a mattress weighing 30 lbs. in every lift. That’s 24 beds × 8 lifts/bed × 30 lbs./lift = 5,760 lbs./day—nearly 3 tons per shift.
• Housekeeper turnover seriously affects housekeeping and laundry operations. The top reason? Room attendants often feel they haven’t been properly trained.
• Housekeeping sees more injuries than any other hotel position due to its physical nature.
Last month, this industry celebrated International Housekeeping Week, and while we typically report on the executives who lead our industry, we don’t often shine a light on the many members who service it day in and day out. It always touches me when I see those same leaders take a moment to recognize the “heart of the house” and honor those everyday heroes who make our stays comfortable and clean. So, I’d like to use my column here to report on a couple of hoteliers who directed the spotlight to their on-property employees.
Meyer Jabara Hotels (MJH) celebrated the week across its portfolio of 45 branded and independent hotels in recognition of this dedicated department of professionals.
“Housekeeping is one of the most important roles in the hotel industry,” said Justin Jabara, president, MJH. “Housekeepers work diligently behind the scenes, ensuring every detail meets the highest standards. A clean room directly affects guest satisfaction, loyalty and the hotel’s reputation. Guests often judge a hotel within minutes of entering their room. A spotless, fresh-smelling, well-prepared space communicates professionalism, safety and comfort.”
To celebrate, MJH organized team-building events, recognition ceremonies and appreciation activities across its portfolio.
“Not only do housekeepers uphold brand standards by following cleaning protocols and checklists, but the consistency of service they provide guarantees that no matter which room a guest stays in, they’ll receive the same level of quality,” he added.
Davidson Hospitality Group also celebrated housekeepers. Corporate senior leaders who each worked in housekeeping during their career ascension paid tribute to the “backbone of our industry” by exemplifying how hospitality can be a rewarding and fulfilling career at every level. Here’s how they responded to the following question: What were some of the personal takeaways from your experience within this department?
Housekeeping taught me attention to detail, cooperation and a sense of urgency. The housekeeping team is one of the most diverse in our industry… There is a great sense of accomplishment at the end of the day because you have cleaned all the rooms, but you know you have to start all over again and exceed the guest’s expectations.
—Harry Carr, SVP, revenue management, Pivot
… It was one of my most favorite roles. Working with the ladies and gentlemen in housekeeping helped me to improve my interpersonal management skill set. These people are some of the hardest workers, and you know that it is some of the hardest work for the lowest pay and yet they keep such a positive attitude.
—Robert Morse, VP, revenue management, Davidson Resorts
The housekeeping department taught me how to lead people. This was especially the case in my first role as a housekeeping manager where I oversaw a team who was more tenured and experienced in the role than I was. I learned to come in from a place of humility and curiosity… It taught me a style of servant leadership. Their directness and genuine care have truly contributed to shaping me and the way that I lead teams today.
—Kenny Imafidon, VP, operational excellence, Davidson Hospitality Group
International Housekeeping Week may only be celebrated for seven days, but the employees who keep our rooms clean and our guests happy should be honored each and every day.
