Women in hotel management. Diamond or glass?

Abstract

Although, the hospitality industry shows growth, the position of women in management is low and only few women are found in high managerial positions. The hotel sector is dominated by women, but is managed by men, as women are mainly found in positions that are stereotypically ascribed to their gender, such as directors of sales and marketing. The findings of this study suggest that women are equally capable to their male counterparts; nevertheless, they acquire skills that are considered to be more effective in the context of the hospitality industry. They are nurturing, better at communicating with people, they are caring and adopt supporting behaviours. Hotels that have women in managerial positions are more successful at facing the increased competitiveness and adapt to change more efficiently.