Motivation vs. experience gains - Cross industry mobility of tourism professionals
Type
conference paper
Date Issued
2004-06-20
Author(s)
Abstract
Whereas in many developing countries tourism professions are among the most preferred job opportunities, in developed and rich countries it is very difficult to attract enough qualified people to the sector. This study contributes to the understanding of motivation structure for tourism positions in well developed countries. Switzerland serves as a role model for high developed countries with a traditional and saturated tourism sector as well as an extremely competitive labour market (see e.g. finance industry etc.). Motivation structure is analysed based on motivation theories. An empirical model serves to analyse the motivations by identifying drivers to enter and leave the industry from different sectors. The Herzberg two factor theory proves to give a quite valid explanation model. Conclusions for employers, the industry and employees are drawn. Since Purcell (1993) stated that "...this industry does loose highly educated employees is; because of unsociable working hours, relatively low pay and conditions of employment, but on the whole, these are characteristics which are anticipated relatively by recruiters".A deeper understanding of motivational structures can help the industry and potential employers to design job packages and leadership structures. It is also important for potential employees to know about the motivation structure of their future fellow workers to evaluate their own position towards their future career.
Language
English
Keywords
Tourism labour market
human resource management in tourism
motivation theory
cross sector mobility
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Book title
Measuring the Tourism Experience: When experience rules, what is the metric of success?
Publisher
TTRA
Publisher place
Montréal
Event Title
35th Annual Conference of the Travel and Tourism Research Association
Event Location
Montréal, Québec, Canada
Event Date
20.-23.06.2004
Subject(s)
Division(s)
Eprints ID
13894