Penned by Prakriti Parul
The hospitality industry, often described as the art of making people feel at home, has long been a cornerstone of global culture and economy. Yet, despite its emphasis on warmth and service, the sector has historically struggled with gender inclusivity, particularly in leadership roles and operational positions. In culturally rich countries like India, where hospitality is deeply rooted in traditions of care and nurturing, the underrepresentation of women in the industry is not just a missed opportunity—it’s a disconnect from the very essence of what hospitality stands for.
The hospitality industry thrives on empathy, attention to detail, and emotional intelligence—traits often associated with women. However, women remain significantly underrepresented, especially in front-end roles and leadership positions. According to a 2022 report by the World Travel & Tourism Council, women make up 54% of the global hospitality workforce but hold less than 20% of general management roles. In India, the numbers are even more stark, with women comprising only 12-15% of the total workforce in the sector.
The Cultural Roots of Hospitality
Hospitality, at its core, is about creating a sense of belonging—a value deeply ingrained in many cultures. In India, for instance, the tradition of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (the guest is equivalent to God) has been passed down through generations, often upheld by women in households.
Mr. Debaditya Chaudhury, Managing Director of Chowman, Oudh 1590, and Chapter 2, reflects on this connection: “True hospitality started in our houses, and now we are making a booming business out of it. Hospitality thrives on warmth, affection, and service—something which our mothers, grandmothers, and aunts have been teaching us since we were kids.”
This cultural foundation highlights a paradox: while women have been the custodians of hospitality at home, their representation in the professional sphere remains limited.
The Barriers to Gender Inclusivity
One of the most significant barriers to gender inclusivity in hospitality is safety. The industry often requires long, irregular hours, and front-end roles frequently involve interacting with strangers—factors that can deter women from joining or staying in the sector.
“The first thing that arises in our mind is women safety, no matter how difficult it is to hear. However, this cannot be the reason to keep the current state of the hospitality industry as it is. it will take another 3-4 years to achieve equal feminine strength in the industry, not because it is male-dominated, but because of these systemic issues.”
Another challenge is the socio-economic background of many employees. The hospitality industry often recruits young staff from diverse backgrounds, many of whom may not have been exposed to the moral and ethical values that promote gender equality.
The Case for Gender Inclusivity
Despite these challenges, the case for gender inclusivity in hospitality is compelling. Research consistently shows that diverse teams perform better. A study by McKinsey & Company found that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 21% more likely to outperform their peers. In hospitality, where customer satisfaction is paramount, the emotional intelligence and perspective that women bring can be transformative.
“We need more and more women power because it is their perspective, their emotional aspect that can be the only solace post the harsh kitchen environment. Currently, we are towards that goal and super happy with the drastic beauty that our women employees have transformed the operations into. True hospitality began in our homes, where women played a central role. By bringing more women into the industry, we are not just addressing a workforce imbalance—we are honoring the very spirit of hospitality.”
Steps Toward Change
To bridge the gender gap, the industry must take proactive steps. This includes creating safer work environments, offering flexible work arrangements, and implementing mentorship programs to nurture female talent. Companies must also challenge stereotypes and biases that perpetuate the notion that certain roles are “better suited” for men.
The journey toward gender inclusivity in hospitality is not just about fairness; it’s about reconnecting with the essence of hospitality itself. The road ahead is challenging, but the rewards are immense. A more inclusive hospitality industry will not only be more equitable but also more innovative, empathetic, and successful. As the sector continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the future of hospitality is female.
