For Rogelio Alejandro Jr., a Certified Hospitality Professional with more than two decades of global experience, success in hospitality isn’t measured solely by titles or credentials—it’s measured by trust.
“In this industry, your reputation is your currency,” Rogelio says in his interview with Financial Adviser PH. “It’s what opens doors, keeps relationships strong, and brings opportunities even when you’re not looking for them.”
As someone who now holds leadership roles with Uni Orient Travel in the Philippines and Big Bus Tours in Los Angeles, Rogelio knows firsthand how much a single missed message or delayed response can cost—not just financially, but in credibility. Years ago, while based in the Middle East selling Philippine destinations, he often struggled with delayed supplier responses and inconsistent communication. “It was easier to sell Malaysia or Europe because you could get answers fast,” he recalls.
That experience shaped how he works today. Now on the other side of the equation, he makes it a personal mission to be the kind of partner he once wished he had. “I committed to being accessible, dependable, and quick to respond. That small effort builds trust—and in tourism, trust is everything.”
What makes a hospitality professional truly stand out, Rogelio emphasizes, isn’t just technical knowledge or even charm—it’s consistency. “Anyone can smile at a guest. But can you deliver when it matters most? Can people count on you when timelines are tight or issues come up?”
For Rogelio, building a reputation starts with three habits:
- Show up prepared. “Know your product. Know your partners. Don’t just wing it.”
- Follow through. “If you say you’ll call, call. If you promise a quote, deliver it. People remember.”
- Treat everyone with respect. “Whether it’s a five-star hotel manager or a frontline agent—how you treat people speaks louder than your job title.”
He’s quick to point out that in today’s interconnected world, reputation travels fast. “One bad experience can be shared across an entire network. But so can one great one.”
Even as he continues to pursue higher education and certifications, Rogelio insists that no diploma can replace a solid reputation. “Degrees open doors, but your reputation decides if they stay open.”
His advice to anyone entering the field is simple: “Build your brand around reliability and respect. In tourism and hospitality, people won’t always remember your CV—but they will remember how you made them feel and how well you followed through.”
