Understanding the workforce: the key to success in a youth hostel in Scotland
International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management
ISSN: 0959-6119
Article publication date: 1 December 2006
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this article is to provide an insight into the importance of understanding the workforce as it affects and is affected by the internal and external environment; an essential element of effective business performance accomplishment.
Design/methodology/approach
The study was conducted in a 148‐bed, four‐star hostel over a four‐week period using multiple data collection methods comprising written questionnaires, documentation collection and observation of assistants in the hostel. By using Herzberg's motivation/hygiene factors as the theoretical foundation, this piece of research investigated the factors involved in the motivation of hostel assistants. The findings were then used to interpret the results, enable comparison with previous studies in the field and provide insights into suggested courses of action.
Findings
The findings suggest that the favourable environment, which enabled tasks to be carried out and made it possible for the accomplishment of business objectives, was due a balance between motivation and hygiene factors supported by understanding of the workforce.
Practical implications
It is hoped that the findings provide the reader (managers, students and academics) awareness of the importance of a balanced work environment and help to improve practice in the context of budget accommodation where multi‐tasking is an essential requirement.
Originality/value
This paper provides the reader with an overall view of modern hostelling while discussing, from a human resources perspective, the requirements for a more favourable working environment.
Keywords
Citation
Papis, J. (2006), "Understanding the workforce: the key to success in a youth hostel in Scotland", International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, Vol. 18 No. 7, pp. 593-600. https://doi.org/10.1108/09596110610703020
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited