CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Hotel occupancy in Chicago has been nearing full recovery to pre-pandemic levels, but as tourists and business travelers return, hotel workers have not.
There are more than 2,000 vacant hotel jobs in Chicagoland according to the American Hotel and Lodging Foundation (ALHF).
Meanwhile, the latest report from economic recovery monitors, such as the Chicago Loop Alliance, claim that hotel occupancy levels have reached at least 90% of 2019’s numbers.
Many hotels — now in a mad dash to recruit staff — have been offering expanded benefits, greater flexibility and increased wages to full- and part-time employees.
A nationwide ad campaign has been launched in an effort to attract job-seekers called “A Place to Stay,” with a specific focus on Chicago.
The AHLF said filling those roles is crucial, and its campaign focuses on highlighting over 200 career pathways that exist in the industry.
“If you have a skill, it’s likely transferable to a career in hospitality,” said Jenniifer Fugolo with the ALHA.
The ALHA said thehotelindustry.com is a good place to start for jobseekers who want more information on how to start a career in the hospitality industry.
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