December 2024…/ Saira Hospitality, a leader in hospitality education, today announced the launch of Saira Connect, a groundbreaking initiative set to transform the recruitment landscape for operators and candidates.

Addressing a shifting recruitment landscape

As the hospitality industry grapples with an unprecedented surge in job applications, Saira Connect offers a solution to the growing challenges faced by both employers and job seekers. With operators reporting an average of 719 applications per month and only 2% of candidates invited to interview, the need for a human-first approach to recruitment has never been more pressing.

The launch of Saira Connect comes at a critical time for the hospitality sector. The adoption of "one-click apply" tools and the integration of generative AI have led to a flood of applications, overwhelming People teams and often resulting in automated rejections without proper screening or feedback on how candidates can improve.

Greg Fruchtenicht, Chief Operating Officer at Saira Hospitality, explains the vision behind Saira Connect: "The effects of the pandemic highlighted just how precious every candidate is for the hospitality industry. As applicant numbers continue to rise, we believe it's our duty to offer a human-first approach by providing personalised pathways to those passionate about a career in hospitality, but unable to secure an initial interview."

How Saira Connect works

The initiative creates a nurturing and inclusive candidate journey by:

1. Partnering with hospitality employers to redirect unsuccessful applicants to Saira Hospitality
2. Providing expert coaching and a personalised employer matching service
3. Connecting candidates with employers in face to face settings, rather than relying on technology

The programme aims to create a circular hiring economy for the industry, maximising opportunities for job seekers and addressing staffing needs for employers.

Proven success

During a three-month pilot phase, Saira Connect has demonstrated impressive results:

• 34% of candidates who engaged with the new rejection email process joined a Saira Hospitality programme
• 88% of these participants received interviews after their coaching
• 35% of these participants were offered roles following their journey with Saira Hospitality

Sara Doutch, Talent & Culture Manager at Pullman London St Pancras believes the initiative offers an innovative approach to traditional practices. “By joining Saira Connect, we aim to be part of a movement that prioritises social responsibility in recruitment practices. We believe the hospitality sector should be welcoming and supportive of all individuals, including those who may not receive an initial offer. We're thrilled to share the success of our first hire through Saira Connect, although this is his first job in a hotel environment, we are confident that his passion and enthusiasm will help him on his hospitality journey.”

Fruchtenicht adds, "We've proven that candidates with huge potential are being lost due to the current trends in hiring technology. We understand the pressure that People teams are under and believe Saira Connect is the solution to not only support operators but to ensure every candidate is offered a pathway to success”.

A recent participant had this to say about their experience with Saira Connect:

“I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for your invaluable assistance in helping me secure my new position. Your guidance, encouragement, and the time you took to support me throughout the process truly made a difference.”

Join the movement

Saira Hospitality is actively seeking partners across the hospitality ecosystem to join this innovative initiative. Operators interested in learning more can visit www.sairahospitality.com/saira-connect

Saira Connect is open to all hospitality operators, from hotels and restaurants to bars, clubs and beyond.

Images can be found here

About Saira Hospitality

Saira Hospitality is a nonprofit that creates pop-up hospitality schools globally, sourcing talent from overlooked communities and providing key skills for hospitality careers. Their schools in the UK, Mexico, Africa, the Caribbean, and US are proven to revolutionise hiring practices and transform students' lives, with just a 10% graduate turnover rate. Learn more at www.sairahospitality.com