Ms. Deeba Khan is the Head of Administration at the Ananta Institute of Hotel Management and Allied Studies. She holds a Bachelor of Hotel Management and Catering Technology degree from MAIHM, Jaipur. She started working as a Housekeeping Supervisor at Country Inn and Auites by Carlson. Thereafter, she worked in Taj Exotica Goa, Leela Palace Kempinski and Nadesar Palace Varanasi among others.

Check: Ananta Institute of Hotel Management & Allied Studies Courses & Fees

Ananta Institute of Hotel Management and Allied Studies

What are the factors that make hotel management program the best for the students to opt?

There are several factors that make a hotel management program a great option for students to choose. Many hotel management programs offer hands-on training and internships, allowing students to gain real-world experience in hotel operations. This practical experience is invaluable in preparing students for the challenges and demands of the industry. The hotel industry is a global one, and hotel management programs often provide students with opportunities to study or work abroad. Hotel management programs not only teach industry-specific knowledge but also develop transferable skills such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, and customer service. 

The hotel industry offers numerous opportunities for career growth and advancement. With the right skills and qualifications gained through a hotel management program, students can progress to managerial and executive positions within hotels, resorts, event management companies, and other hospitality-related organizations. The industry is a resilient and constantly growing industry, providing job stability for hotel management graduates. People will always need accommodation, food, and hospitality services, ensuring a steady demand for skilled professionals in the field.

What will you say the “best practices” in the course you’re offering?

In the hotel management course, some of the best practices are emphasis on the importance of providing exceptional customer service to guests. We train students on effective communication, problem-solving, and empathetic skills to meet guest expectations and enhance guest satisfaction. We teach students to manage various operational aspects of a hotel, such as reservations, housekeeping, front desk operations, and food and beverage services. We focus on the significance of optimizing efficiency, ensuring smooth operations, and delivering a seamless guest experience.

Our course highlights the importance of a well-trained and motivated staff. We teach students to develop comprehensive training programs, provide constructive feedback, and create opportunities for career advancement to enhance employee satisfaction and retention. We equip students with knowledge of digital marketing strategies, including social media management, online advertising, and search engine optimization. We promote the importance of sustainability in hotel management by teaching students about energy efficiency, waste reduction, water conservation, and responsible procurement practices. We prepare students to handle emergencies and ensure the safety and security of guests and staff. 

What are some valuable insights of the program that you are offering at your institute?

A good hotel management program should provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry, including its various sectors, trends, and best practices. Hotel management is a hands-on field, so programs should emphasize practical training. This can include internships, simulated experiences, and real-world case studies to allow students to apply their learning in a practical setting. Hotel management programs should equip students with a strong foundation in business concepts and principles like financial management, marketing strategies, revenue management, and understanding industry metrics. 

Hotel managers work closely with teams and interact with guests from diverse backgrounds. Therefore, programs should focus on developing leadership skills, effective communication, conflict resolution, and customer service. The hospitality industry is undergoing rapid digitization, and hotels are increasingly leveraging technology for various operations. A modern hotel management program should cover topics like revenue management systems, property management systems, online booking platforms, and customer relationship management tools. With growing environmental concerns, hotels are now prioritizing sustainability. A good program should address sustainability practices specific to the hospitality industry, including energy-saving measures, waste management, and sustainable procurement. 

How does the program ensure that students are being prepared for the future?

The hotel management program ensures that students are being prepared for the future through various methods. The program designs its curriculum to cover a wide range of subjects and skills that are relevant to the evolving hospitality industry. The program also includes practical components such as internships or work placements in hotels or related organizations. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, gaining valuable skills and industry exposure.

Hotel management programs often have strong ties with the industry, including partnerships with hotels, resorts, and other hospitality organizations. These connections provide students with opportunities for networking, mentorship, and industry insights. guest lectures, and industry visits. These programs often offer professional development workshops and seminars to enhance student's skills in areas such as communication, leadership, and critical thinking. The program incorporates the use of technology, including property management systems, revenue management software, and customer relationship management tools, which are widely used in the industry.

How did you train yourself/faculty to deliver this program to the students?

I can provide some general insights on how hotel management programs are typically delivered to students. The faculty members teaching hotel management programs usually possess relevant academic qualifications such as a degree in hotel management, hospitality, or a related field. They are required to have practical experience in the hotel industry. This allows them to bring real-world knowledge and examples into the classroom. They may engage in professional development activities to stay updated with the latest trends and practices in the hotel management industry. 

Faculty members play a crucial role in designing the curriculum for hotel management programs. They collaborate with industry professionals, conduct research, and review industry standards to ensure the program aligns with current industry requirements. They also utilize various teaching methods to deliver the hotel management program effectively. Additionally, they regularly assess students' progress through assignments, exams, and projects. Institutions may also organize faculty development programs to enhance teaching skills, incorporate new teaching methodologies, and keep faculty members updated with the latest industry practices.

How do you tend to build an industry connect with this program? 

Building an industry connection is crucial in the field of hotel management as it helps in networking, gaining practical knowledge, and exploring career opportunities. Our students participate in internships or externships during their program to gain hands-on experience and connect with professionals in the industry. They also attend industry conferences, seminars, workshops, and networking events related to hotel management. They are encouraged to connect with alumni from our hotel management program who are currently working in the industry. They can offer valuable insights, guidance, and potential job opportunities. 

Students also join professional associations and organizations related to hotel management such as the American Hotel & Lodging Association or the International Hotel and Restaurant Association (IHRA). Our students also attend career fairs organized by our institute or other institutions to meet potential employers and learn about job opportunities. 

What are the types of projects that the students are working on through this program?

The types of projects that students may work on through a hotel management program can vary depending on the curriculum and specific program. However, some common types of projects that students in a hotel management program may work on include:

Operations Management Projects, Marketing and Sales Projects, Event Planning Projects, Revenue Management Projects, Sustainability Projects, and Technology Integration Projects. These are just a few examples, and the actual projects can vary depending on the specific program and the opportunities available.