HSMAI Perspective: Unlocking Talent Trends – Insights from the State of Talent Report

Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHBA, President and CEO, Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) 

The hospitality industry is continually reshaped by transformative trends and innovations. The HSMAI Foundation Special Report: The State of Hotel Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Optimization Talent 2023-2024, a cornerstone resource for sales, marketing, and revenue optimization leaders, offers a roadmap for navigating these changes. This year’s report is more than findings and forecasts. It offers best practices, case studies, and suggested actions to improve talent outcomes across the commercial functions.  

The report is made possible with the support of the HSMAI Foundation’s corporate talent partners and is authored by Dorothy Dowling, Managing Director, Horwath HTL, and a special advisor to the HSMAI Foundation board. 

Key Insights  

This year’s report unveils nine crucial trends: 

  1. Meeting the Needs of Multigenerational Workforces 
  2. The Rise of The Gig Economy and Fractional Staffing Models 
  3. Retention Through Upskilling, Reskilling and Upward Mobility 
  4. Transforming Employee Engagement 
  5. Leadership Defines Culture and Organizational Purpose 
  6. Return to Office and Hybrid Work Models 
  7. Cross Functional Teamwork and the Evolution of Commercial 
  8. The Rise of Artificial Intelligence 
  9. Prioritizing Emotional Wellness 

Dive Deeper 

The State of Talent Report is an invitation to be a talent leader, championing models that thrive on research, inclusivity, and forward-thinking leadership.  

“Each of the 9 trends represents a piece of our industry’s talent puzzle,” said Lori Kiel, CHDM, HSMAI Foundation Chair and Chief Commercial Officer, The Boca Raton Resort and Club. “The State of Talent Report highlights the industry’s positive trends while honoring the adaptability and innovation inherent in hospitality.” 

Explore the full report and join the conversation on how we can collectively elevate the people at the heart of hospitality. 

The HSMAI Foundation is funded solely by individual and corporate donations. If you are interested in being a 2024 Corporate Talent Partner, click here.  The Foundation is also focused on building a bridge to the future of talent via individual, tax deductible gifts to the Century Campaign.  You can learn more and donate here. 


Categories: Sales, Talent and Leadership Development
Insight Type: Articles, Reports