Despite active recruitment efforts, many employers are struggling to attract qualified candidates for key hospitality roles. The issue isn’t just availability, it’s a complex mix of shifting expectations, industry fatigue, and market realities.

Widening Expectation Gaps
There’s often a mismatch between what employers is offering and what candidates are seeking—whether it’s salary, hours, flexibility, or growth opportunities. Candidates are selective, and rightly so.

Burnout & Industry Perception
Post-pandemic fatigue is still real. Many experienced professionals have left the industry altogether and attracting them back takes more than just a job offer—it takes trust, investment, and a clear reason to return.

Skills vs. Experience Misalignment
Some employers still insist on “3+ years” for roles that could be learned quickly with the right training and attitude. In a talent-short market, it pays to focus on potential, not just the resume.

Rising Cost of Living
Hospitality wages haven’t always kept pace with inflation or local living costs. Candidates are weighing up whether the hours and intensity of the work justify the compensation.

Changing Workforce Priorities
Flexibility, culture, values, and wellbeing now factor heavily into a candidate’s decision. Employers who overlook these are losing great talent to those who lean in.