In tourism and hospitality, standing still isn’t an option. Guest expectations evolve, technology advances, and global trends reshape the way service is delivered. For Rey Amancio, Certified Hospitality Professional, the secret to staying relevant is simple: always be ahead of the curve.
“Staying competitive requires continuous learning and a proactive mindset,” he says. “I make it a point to stay informed about industry trends, new technologies (like AI in guest services), and evolving guest expectations. I invest in upskilling, especially in leadership, digital tools, and cross-cultural competencies. I maintain strong networks—both in industry and academia. Building relationships opens doors and broadens perspectives.”
Why Skills Still Matter More Than Ever
For Amancio, thriving in the hospitality industry starts with mastering three non-negotiable skill sets. “Interpersonal and communication skills: Whether you’re front-facing with guests or collaborating behind the scenes, the ability to engage with empathy, clarity, and professionalism defines success. Adaptability and resilience: This industry is fast-paced and unpredictable. The ability to remain composed under pressure, adjust to changing demands, and bounce back from setbacks is vital. Attention to detail and service excellence: Hospitality is all about creating memorable experiences. Anticipating guest needs, observing small details, and delivering consistently high service standards make a lasting impression.”
These skills, he explains, remain valuable no matter how technology transforms the industry. In fact, they’re often what separates top performers from those who merely meet the minimum expectations.
Technology as a Tool, Not a Threat
Rather than seeing automation or AI as competition, Amancio views it as a way to enhance service. He embraces tools like property management systems, CRM platforms, and AI-driven guest service applications. “Future-proofing means anticipating change before it happens,” he says. “Professionals can do this by embracing technology, strengthening soft skills like problem-solving, storytelling, and leadership, and cross-training in different departments to build versatility.”
By learning how to integrate tech tools into daily operations, he’s able to deliver a more seamless guest experience—without losing the personal touch that defines great hospitality.
Building a Personal Brand
For Amancio, staying relevant also means making sure people know what you stand for. “Building a personal brand, whether through professional networking, speaking engagements, or contributing to industry publications,” he says, “is key to staying visible and credible in the industry.”
This personal brand isn’t about self-promotion—it’s about showcasing your expertise, values, and commitment to service so that when opportunities arise, people think of you first.
Purpose Over Paycheck
In a competitive industry, it’s easy to chase the next raise or promotion. But Amancio believes that the most successful professionals have a deeper motivation. “Staying purpose-driven, not just paycheck-driven,” he says, is what makes a career sustainable. “Those who align their work with a deeper commitment to guest experience, community, or sustainability stand out and remain in demand.”
It’s advice that aligns with the best career guidance he’s ever received: “Don’t chase titles—chase impact.” This mindset has helped him focus on meaningful contributions—whether that’s improving guest satisfaction, mentoring the next generation, or creating operational efficiencies.
Why Cultural Awareness Matters
In today’s global-facing hospitality industry, cultural awareness is a competitive advantage. “Standout professionals are those who have a strong sense of cultural awareness,” he explains. This not only helps in providing personalized guest experiences but also in building rapport with diverse teams.
Cultural awareness, he adds, goes hand-in-hand with emotional intelligence—how you handle feedback, support colleagues, and maintain team morale.
Lesson for Hospitality Professionals
Amancio’s approach to future-proofing his career blends adaptability, technology adoption, and human-centered leadership. His advice to industry peers: master your craft, stay open to innovation, and never lose sight of the human connections that define hospitality.
Lesson: The hospitality professionals who thrive in the future will be those who combine tech-savvy skills with timeless service values—and who stay driven by purpose rather than just the next paycheck.
