Exclusive Interview | Vichin Sehgal, Vice President, Rajasthali Resort & Spa
/“For me a candidate must exhibit an Aura, knowledge and rapport must be like a candidate’s jewel.”
Tell us about your journey. How did it all start?
When I come to think of it, my tryst with the wondrous world of hospitality had started at a very young age with Raj Vilas once I had completed my education. It was my first exposure to the world of hotels. I hail from a family of scientists. Thus, one can assert that I was the first of my family to be a part of the exciting world of hospitality. I was always interested in science and when I joined the hotel industry, it was not long before I could see myself falling love with the science and strategy behind the varied aspects of Hotel Operations including Administration and Management and enjoying and exploring the spontaneous and versatile approach behind the same.
What do you think it takes to succeed in this industry?
Hotel industry is an intense driving industry that requires the utmost dedication, commitment and a perfect blend of work ethics and an adoration for lifestyle and culture to succeed. But most importantly, it requires patience to make it in the industry. Patience to strive on and curate the perfect and unforgettable experience for your guest irrespective of the situation.
What are the attributes you look for while selecting or hiring?
For me, the most important attribute when it comes to selecting the perfect candidate for the position is his innate love for serving others. the entire hospitality industry is based on the regard that you should be passionate to serving and curating an experience for others. Therefore, it is essential for me that the candidate should exude a similar aura.
The knowledge that the candidate possesses along with his ability to create a personal rapport with the guest is an essential. For me a candidate must exhibit an Aura, knowledge and rapport must be like a candidates jewel . Someone who knows his job will always keep their commitment towards service excellence as priority.
What advice would you give to a young, aspiring hotelier for their internship?
I would advise youngsters to find their passion and be absolutely sure about the same before they aspire for the industry. They should know what’s good or bad for them. One should always remember that knowledge and experience always goes a long way in defining an individual in this industry. I still learn every day and so should be the approach for all youngsters trying to make a mark in this daily evolving industry.
What are some of the trends you see impacting the hospitality industry?
One of the major trends that I have seen in this industry is the gradual increase in the number of millennial travellers. Consequently, there has been a sudden boom in the technological exposure and dependence in this industry. We are also witness to the exponential increase in the interest towards wellness and culinary specific travel experiences. People are looking for versatility in terms of experiences rather than just destinations.
Two things you would like to change in the industry.
Change is a constant peer of the hospitality industry. But if there are two things that I would personally like to change in the industry then they would be the overindulgence of technology in the industry and the rise of economy hotels.
What is your favorite interview question and why?
My favourite interview question is when someone asks to tell a bit about family or what are the other person is passionate about. This gives an insight about the individual’s social background, his outlook, and his sense of responsibility
What we can expect from the resort in the coming days?
Rajasthali Resort and Spa is looking to introduce a plethora of initiatives and offers. These include personalised staycations that are specially curated for the families, uber weekend getaways that are reflective of the scenic vistas and the splendid service standards of the hotel and a home away from home.
Marketing plans for the coming months?
We are waiting for the world to open in this age of emergency. for the upcoming months, our marketing campaigns shall seek to promote foreign travellers and get more inbound queries that specifically include well-crafted luxury weddings.
