Authenticity Within Hospitality Industry free essay sample

Due to globalization and a world increasingly filled with deliberately stage experiences within the hospitality industry, consumers crave for authenticity. Instead of making the employees as cast members or puppets, the organization must identify what makes it authentic by finding the deeper meaning of the organization’s DNA and involving their staff members through-out the process, frontline staff in particular. Zaina Ibrahim BA of International Hospitality Management University College of Northern Denmark On one occasion, however, we left disappointed and couldn’t pinpoint why: all of the service tangibles were present. What had been missing, however, was authenticity on the part of the staff; they said and did all the â€Å"right† things, but failed to be fully engaged and invested in their actions and words — they were not authentic. † (McCrary 2008) Authenticity in Tourism and Hospitality is of a high demand both personally and professionally. Due to globalization, virtualisation and rapid development, there is nothing left un-touched, it is a challenge to define what? s fake and what? s real. Living in an artificial world filled with deliberately stage experiences, people crave for authenticity. Gilmore and Pine II indicate that goods and services are no longer enough; what consumers want today are experiences – memorable events that engage them in an inherently personal way and they choose to buy based on how real they perceive an offering to be. Business today, therefore, is all about being real, original, genuine, sincere and authentic. (Gilmore and Pine II, 2007) In the hospitality industry, consumers play an important role on how to develop or improve the product and services offered within the industry. According to Ian Yeoman who is a professional futurologist specializing in travel and tourism, authenticity evolves because consumers search for exceptional experience, special moments that are original and real. (Yeoman, 2008) Consumers have the power to voice out their satisfaction or dissatisfaction to the whole world via online rating sites like Tripadvisor. The majority of those comments are about experiences they had during their travelling period. The factors that have the biggest impact on guests are when hotel guests have had a bad experience due to poor services from the front line staff. In Tom McCrarys case, how can a frontline staff portray a service that is totally different from what the organization is promoting? This question is interesting because it sheds light on the importance of a mutual understanding on authenticity within all staff members of the hotel. Not just to act authentic but to be authentic as a professional. How hoteliers define authenticity will have an effect on how they practice authenticity in reality. There for it is interesting to direct attention to the understandings of authenticity within a hotels organisation. Zaina Ibrahim /International Hospitality Management (2012) Page 2 This research will focus on the hotel industry. Instead of focusing externally on what the consumers define as authentic experiences, the study is going to highlight authenticity seen from an organizational development platform. The attention will particularly be oriented towards the frontline staffs that constantly are in direct interaction with hotel guests. In order for a hotel to provide real authentic experiences it is of high necessity that the organization itself is able to find and define its authenticity. The hotel has to address the question: â€Å"What is the deeper meaning of our existence, what is our DNA that makes us stand out from the others looking beyond profitable goals? (Senge, 2010) If a hotel fails to work with these questions in cooperation with the employees it might lead to fakeness or a mismatch between what the hotel portrays to provide and what the front liners actually provide in their actions. The hypothesis of this synopsis is that in order for a hotel to provide sustainable authentic experiences, hoteliers within the hotel need to have mutual understandings of the hotels authenticity or DNA. This is the foundation for being able to provide authentic products and services. This leads to the investigation of: How do hoteliers from different departments of a hotel conceptualize â€Å"authenticity†? What are the connections between these conceptualizations and the way the hotel provide authentic experiences in practice? It is important to underline that this synopsis mainly focuses on the first part of the problem formulation – â€Å"How do hoteliers conceptualize â€Å"authenticity†. The second part of the problem formulation can only be answered after analyse the empirical data regarding the first question. Zaina Ibrahim /International Hospitality Management (2012) Page 3 Theory of Science Social Constructionism The scientific foundation of this synopsis is based on social constructionism. It is with the lens of social constructionism this paper is going to try to conceptualise authenticity. Before beginning this process it? s important to understand what social constructionism is? Social constructionism focuses on uncovering the ways in which individuals and groups participate in the creation of their perceived social reality. Knowledge and truth is socially constructed and there for not objectively given. When people interact they socially construct their reality, which means reality is constantly constructed and reproduced. Constructionists view knowledge and truth as created not discovered by the mind (Schwandt, 2003) and supports the view that being a realist is not inconsistent with being a constructionist. Language and communication play an important role in social constructionism as language creates and recreates reality instead of being a result of reality. In other words it is through communication and conceptualization that our lives become meaningful and through that we learn. It is through constant affirmation and negotiation of meaning people coordinate realities and significance; hence it will be hollow for a social constructionist to research without engaging in human interaction in meaningful contexts. Communicating through language brings concepts across and provides means of structuring the way the world is experienced. (Arbnor Bjerke, 2009) Zaina Ibrahim /International Hospitality Management (2012) Page 4 A social constructionist will not be interested in finding the real essence of authenticity nor reaching a closed and definitive definition of the concept. Instead the focus will be on how the people within the hotel industry conceptualise and use authenticity in their working lives. The word ‘authenticity’ will only become meaningful for a social constructionist in the instant where it becomes an objective for negotiating and coordination of meaning. The interest will be on how people socially conceptualize the term ‘authenticity’ and use it to co-construct meaningful realities. Social Constructionism view on this study In order to create substantial authenticity throughout the hotel organization you need to direct the attention to how the hoteliers from the General Manager to the Receptionist conceptualize authenticity. Authenticity meaning what is the hotel’s DNA or what is the organization put in this world to do looking beyond goals of profitability. To do this, it? important to stress that real authenticity has to come from within the hotel organization itself and not be constructed from the consumer’s perception or seen as an instrumental tool. Implementing authenticity could sound very instrumental but in fact it involves a deeper form of reflection and learning because it evolves the identity of the hotel. There for it is very difficult and probably time-consuming for an organization to work wit h authenticity but it is necessary to include this internal change process in order to provide sustainable authentic experiences without faking or acting. Research Methodology Qualitative Research From a social constructionists point of view qualitative research methods are preferable, because it is the method which can unfold how language is used to construct reality and create meaning. There for qualitative research will be used on this study to collect empirical data. More over by using qualitative research, the opportunity of seeing it through the eyes of the hoteliers being studied is an advantage. What is qualitative research? It is a research strategy that emphasize words rather than quantification in the collection and analysis of data (Bryman,2008). The main steps of qualitative research which will be implemented during the process of collecting the data are attached. See appendix 1. Zaina Ibrahim /International Hospitality Management (2012) Page 5 Semi-structured interviewing Semi-structured interviewing would be the best method to apply because it is a two way communication which can be used to use to gather qualitative information. Most importantly it provides the opportunity for learning from a social constructionist point of view. What is semi-structured interviewing? A researcher has a list of specific questions to be covered, usually referred to as an interview guide but the interviewee has a great deal of flexibility and freedom in how to reply. As the interviewer pick up things from the interviewee, the interviewer might ask questions that is not in the guide. The interview process is flexible and emphasizes more on how the interviewee understands the issues or subject. Bryman, 2008) The reason semi-structured interview is chosen for this research is because it not only provides answers but it provides the reasons of the answer. The relatively unstructured nature of the interview has the capacity to provide insights into how hoteliers from different departments conceptualize ‘authenticity’ and connects it to their work. Interviewing one representative from every department in a relaxed atmosp here, without the intervention from other staff members, will hopefully result in very sincere and authentic interviews. Hopefully the employees will unfold their true stories regarding authenticity. Semi-structured interviewing steps procedures: Step 1 Planning interviews 1) Identifying respondents 2) Number of interviews 3) Preparing interviews Step 2 Interviewing respondents 1) Initiating interviews 2) Conducting interviews 3) Concluding interviews Step 3 Data analysis Zaina Ibrahim /International Hospitality Management (2012) Page 6 Data Analysis Narrative analysis Narrative analysis is suitable for analysing this research data because of how it can explore and identify identity and its focus on the role of stories in creating and maintaining organizational identity, culture and structure. This is supported by Riessmen, narrative is a basic human way of making sense of the world – we lead ‘storied lives’ (Riessman, 1993) What is narrative analysis? This particular study requires a story telling, because it can help make sense of the events the hoteliers have experienced. Critical reflections There is a paradox in this research. It was stated that interaction and engagement in relations are key aspects of sense-making. However this synopsis is only done by the researcher alone without any disturbance from outside that could change knowledge, perception and reality. The interviewer needs to be aware that she indirectly is a co-creator of reality. The interactions thereby influence the negotiating of meaning. Reflecting on the power of words, it is important to reflect on the language that the interviewer brings into the interview. This is because the words chosen by the interviewer will affect the interviewee. It is of a high importance to give space and freedom for the interviewee to unfold her untold stories and remember that the interviewer is also an intervener. In semi-structured interviews viewpoints must be covered during the interview because this method is the way of capturing perceptions and concerns of the hotel staff. Lastly the interviewer needs to practice the skills of intense listening and provide questions that can unfold stories. Limitations This research has several limitations; it does not focus on consumers as important as they may be. Yes it is important to consider consumers during this process, however in this case the first step or phase is to achieve authenticity by looking at the organization itself.

Quebec Winter Carnival Essays (522 words) - Parades, Mardi Gras

Quebec Winter Carnival The Quebec Winter Carnival Quebec City is the World's Snow Capital. Quebec City held its first winter carnival in 1894. It was an elaborate celebration that provided people with relief from the cold harsh winter. In the sixty years that followed these winter carnivals were organized periodically. It wasn't until 1955 that a group of local businessmen decided that an annual carnival would be a good way to stimulate the economy during the long winter months. The Quebec Carnival grew to become Quebec City's third-largest industry, far surpassing its organizers dreams. The Carnival's activities reflect the character and the tastes of the modern-day people. They also include many of Quebec's most famous traditions. Beautiful snow sculptures as well as the traditional canoe race across the mighty St. Lawrence River are as spectacular and as popular as ever. Since 1955, the Quebec Winter Carnival was recognized as the World's biggest winter celebration, and is the third largest carnival, after those in Rio and New Orleans. Today Quebec City's historic streets are filled with people of all ages, anxious to experience the joys of winter at the world-famous Quebec Carnival. The Quebec Carnival offers a wide variety of sporting events. The legendary International Canoe Race, a popular tradition since the very first Carnival, is a true test of courage and determination. Teams from around the world attempt to cross the mighty St. Lawrence River between Quebec City and Levis must battle ice floes, treacherous currents, and freezing temperatures. There's also something called the Roll in the snow, for participants dressed only in a bathing suit. The provincial dogsled racing Championship called La Grande viree , the Soapbox Derby, the Car Race on ice and the Cross Country skiing Classic of the Quebec Winter Carnival are just some of the activities at the Quebec Winter Carnival. The Carnival has brightly-lit night parades which are the most colorful part of its program. Each year, more than 500,000 spectators bundle up to attend the exciting event which features fabulous floats, smartly dressed marching bands, and clowns. Elaborate parades also wind through the streets of City, with music and enchantment. The International Snow Sculpture is one of the Carnival's most popular activities and essentially its finest art exhibit. This event has attracted sculptors from around the globe, who have created splendid and imaginative works. In 1998, 21 countries took part in the International category. Despite its severe northern climate, Quebec City is a popular winter tourist destination. Hundreds of Thousands people participate in the Carnival's activities each year. Of these, 60 000 come from outside Quebec province, thereby providing sizeable revenue for local hotels and restaurants. The Carnival is a driving force in Quebec's tourist industry. A 1997 study conducted by Le Groupe Leger et Leger indicated that the economic impact of the Quebec Winter Carnival could be evaluated at $48 millions. The Quebec Winter Carnival has many activities for all ages. Activities range from simple exhibits to spectacular exhibits of ice sculptures. You can take part in games and enjoy outside sports and cultural events with yours friends and family. English Essays

The baroque violin essays

The baroque violin essays The Baroque Violin and its Repertoire. The Baroque period clearly began around 1600 and was ended with the death of Bach in 1750. During this period of music, after a revolution from the renaissance period, many new techniques and styles of musical composition and performance emerged. This started with the implementation and growing affection towards homophony, where a solo instrument is backed by one or more accompanists. The number of accompanists could vary from one to a whole orchestra. Such music saw the emergence of the musical style, Opera. This came about when the music was written as an accompaniment for the solo/s coming from the voice/s. The coming of baroque homophony saw the beginning of the new age of music. Another compositional technique that emerged during the baroque period was the figured bass, and the basso continuo, which is the section comprising of the lower stringed instruments, mainly the double bass, cello, or harpsichord. The word baroque means to many people, extravagance or flamboyance. Some people would argue that the baroque period saw music without emotion, but I believe that it was quite the opposite after listening to and playing some of Bachs concertos. In this essay I will explain and describe the differences and the development of the baroque violin. I will also describe some techniques used during the times when the baroque violin was used, and the composers who implemented these techniques. Master craftsmen such as Stradivarius and others determined the baroque violin familys original condition. Information as to what that condition was comes from instruments that have survived unaltered. Few instruments still remain. Baroque violins lasted and were used through to the second half of the 18th century, during the classical period. In the 19th century articulation and sonority changed the structure of the violin. The violin top and back serve as an amplifier of the sound...

Reasons for the Civil War essays

Reasons for the Civil War essays Thomas Jefferson once said, Maintaining slavery was like holding a wolf by its ears. You didnt like it, but you didnt dare let it go. (Civil War) Slavery was apart of this nations birth. It would be the deciding factor in the separation from North and South. The separation of the two would cause fear and hatred, which would eventually lead to war. Future president, Abraham Lincoln said it best, As a nation we began by declaring that all men are created equal, we now practically read it: all men are created equal, except Negroes. (Civil War) Slavery was introduced to the lands of North America from the very beginning of English, later American, colonization. Throughout the American Revolution, this idea that all men are created equal was the driving force for change, blood was spilled, but after years of warfare, it was all over; a new nation had been born. Finally, there was a chance to start over, but with this idea of equality came hesitance and there was no change. The question of morality was surpassed by greed and profitability. At the Constitutional Convention, the topic of the Black slave was discussed and after much deliberation, it was proposed that the slave would be treated as three-fifths of that of a White for the purposes of representation and taxation. The only reason why the slave was worth that much was because the Government needed the tax money. If slaves didnt count at all, there wouldnt be two bits to collect in his/her name. Also, at the Convention, the slave trade itself was discussed, but no compromise could be made. In other words, the institution of slavery was protected in the Constitution, the very fabric of this nation. Something that was fought so hard for (equality) was hypocritically passed aside and left alone for the next generation to deal with. Slavery never was commonly practiced in the North. As being a free territory, the Nor...

Management Strategies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Management Strategies - Essay Example The ultimate aim and objective of this report will be to provide leadership/management with actionable levels of engagement that they can pursue as a means of effectively presenting iDesign to the market. Whereas it is true that there are a number of key pitfalls and challenges that are presented with respect to launching any new firm within an already saturated market, the analysis and discussion will keep these relevant difficulties in mind and seek to leverage a better understanding for how management and marketing strategies, if effectively employed, can seek to increase the potential for the brand within the market. The brand will seek to combine a high level of technical innovation and 3D printing capabilities within the nexus of cutting-edge fashion and person style; thereby allowing the individual to custom order that style and designs that they feel best suits their own personal tastes. By focusing on innovation, technology, and sustainability, the brand will help to differentiate itself greatly from the many other offerings that already exist within the bloated and saturated clothing/textile market. As has been noted previously, the brand is unique due to the fact that it directly elicits customer input as a means of creating each unique article of fashion. However, beyond this, the focus and drive towards presenting earth conscious and sustainable products directly to the consumer market without the added worry of ethics and potential sweat shop labor abuse, the firm stands well apart from the many competitors that it seeks to leverage market share from.

Essay questions Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 23

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Huckleberry Finn vs. Tom Sawyer Essay Example for Free

Huckleberry Finn vs. Tom Sawyer Essay Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer are very different characters. I think that is what made them such great friends. Tom is always out to have a good time and doesn’t care who he hurts to do it. Huck always follows Tom’s lead even though sometimes he shouldn’t. Huck Finn grew up in a very rough environment. His father was a drunk who would disappear for months on random occasions. Huck is typically dirty and homeless. Eventually he goes to live with Widow Douglas who continually tries to reform Huck, but he resists and keeps his own ways. He said â€Å"The Widow Douglas she took me for her son, and allowed she would sivilize me; but it was rough living in the house all the time, considering how dismal regular and decent the widow was in all her ways; and so when I couldn’t stand it no longer I lit out. I got into my old rags and my sugar-hogshead again, and was free and satisfied.†(2) Huck is also a follower mostly of his good friend Tom. â€Å"But Tom Sawyer he hunted me up and said he was going to start a band of robbers, and I might join if I would go back to the widow and be respectable. So I went back.† (2) This is really the first time Huck has been educated and is taught about religion. Huck grew up in a much tougher environment then his close friend Tom, but he still has a good heart and was an easy going guy. He says â€Å"We said there wasn’t no home like a raft, after all. Other places do seem so cramped up and smothery, but a raft don’t. You feel mighty free and easy and comfortable on a raft.† (42) Tom is Huck’s best friend. They are about the same age but grew up in completely different situation. Tom grew up in white middle class family in a nice comfortable environment. Tom is clearly the leader of the two because Huck is always following his lead. Huck says â€Å"Tom told me what his plan was, and I see in a minute it was worth fifteen of mine for style, and would make Jim just as free a man as mine would, and maybe get us all killed besides. So I was satisfied, and said we would waltz in on it.† (66) Also Huck says â€Å"Tom Sawyer wouldn’t back out so I won’t.† Another thing that is different is Tom is willing to keep a secret that hurts a lot of people. He knows Mrs. Watson has died, but keeps it a secret for his own enjoyment. He could have told and Jim would have been free, but all he cared about was his plan to escape and how fun it was going to be. You  can clearly see the differences between Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer. There are many examples in the book that show that. Tom is the leader and Huck is the follower. The biggest difference is the morals of the two. Tom kept a secret that hurt people and all Huck wanted to do was free Jim. After everything said Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer are best friends. They get along so well and will be friends for life.