In a people-driven industry like tourism, skills on paper will only take you so far. What sets professionals apart is how they adapt, solve problems, and connect authentically with others. As Oliver Fabon, a Certified Hospitality Professional, puts it: “The most essential skills needed to thrive in tourism and hospitality industry, you’ll need a mix of interpersonal, technical, and problem-solving skills.”
That mix has guided his journey in the sector and continues to anchor his approach to work. For Fabon, competitiveness is not about chasing titles or clinging to past achievements. “To stay competitive in a dynamic field, I constantly learn, adapt, network, innovate, promote myself, and seek feedback. It’s all about growing and embracing change,” he explains.
Choosing Growth Over Shortcuts
Unlike many who make career pivots, Fabon has stayed firmly rooted in the tourism and service sector. His approach, however, has been anything but static. “I haven’t made a career shift. I am continuously updated and improved, which involves adapting to new information and tasks,” he says.
That commitment to continuous development stems from a philosophy that values progress over shortcuts. The qualities he sees in standout professionals mirror his own path: “In my field, key qualities for a standout candidate include strong determination and problem-solving skills, adaptability, and continuous learning.”
He believes the best way forward is to prepare for change before it arrives. “To future-proof a career in tourism and hospitality, professionals should focus on continuous learning, technology adoption, and adaptability to evolving industry trends,” Fabon emphasizes.
Leadership Grounded in Emotional Intelligence
For Fabon, leadership is not about power but presence. The traits that matter most are clear to him: “In the service and hospitality industries, several leadership traits are critical for success. These include emotional intelligence, the ability to lead by example, and effective communication skills.”
Conflict is inevitable in any team, but he handles it with calm and clarity. “I handle workplace conflict by staying calm, listening to all sides, identifying the root cause, and addressing the issue with clear and respectful communication. I focus on solutions, set clear expectations, and involve the team member in resolving the problem while maintaining professionalism,” he explains.
This emphasis on balance carries over to how he motivates others. “I inspire my team by leading by example, recognizing their efforts, providing clear goals, and motivating them through support, feedback, and encouragement to achieve excellence,” he shares.
Collaboration Over Command
Over the years, his management style has shifted. While once more directive, he now values collaboration above all. “My management style is collaborative and supportive, focused on clear communication and teamwork. Over the years, it has evolved to be more adaptable and empathetic, balancing guidance with empowering others to take ownership,” he reflects.
This evolution stems from the lessons leadership has taught him—lessons grounded in humility and growth. “Some of the biggest leadership lessons I’ve learned are the importance of active listening, leading by example, adapting to change, and empowering others to grow and succeed,” he notes.
Balancing People and Performance
Striking the balance between business demands and employee well-being is a challenge in any organization. For Fabon, the answer lies in clarity and care. “I balance organizational goals and employee well-being by setting clear priorities, promoting open communication, and ensuring workloads are manageable while supporting a positive and healthy work environment,” he explains.
But leadership also requires making tough calls. One of his most difficult moments involved reshaping roles within the team. “The toughest decision I’ve had to make as a leader was making choices that affected people’s roles, balancing what was best for the organization with fairness and compassion for the individuals involved,” Fabon admits.
Living by Authenticity
At the heart of his career is one piece of advice that continues to guide him. “The best career advice I ever got was: Be yourself, because authenticity always shines through and attracts the right opportunities,” he recalls.
That authenticity has been his compass, whether in managing people, embracing innovation, or navigating industry shifts. It’s also the message he hopes others will carry forward: that in a field built on experiences and service, nothing matters more than showing up with honesty, empathy, and the courage to keep learning.
