Hospitality students perceptions of housekeeping as a career choice in the hospitality industry: A study in Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

This research explored hospitality students’ perceptions of careers in housekeeping, using surveys (n=384) and focus groups in Uttarakhand. Most students viewed housekeeping as a low-status job with few career progression opportunities, identifying issues of low pay, stigma associated with the profession, and a lack of awareness regarding professionalism and leadership and managerial opportunities. Internship experience helped students to have a more well-rounded viewpoint of housekeeping careers. This study was the first of its kind in this region, and it may provide some useful insights to help develop the curriculum, or raise awareness of housekeeping positions as inclusive careers.