Exploring Work Stress and Coping Strategies in the Hotel Industry: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

In an era marked by high stress levels in various professions, this study investigates the factors influencing work stress and coping strategies among hotel industry employees. It combines a decade-long engagement in the sector with in-depth interviews, offering an insider perspective on how stress affects this specific workforce. The study encompasses participants from diverse roles and hierarchical levels within the hotel industry. The research identified the ubiquity of work stress, particularly during peak periods. A striking finding was the contemplation of resignation by some employees when presented with alternative employment options. This research goes beyond mere identification of stress factors, examining employees' coping trajectories from the initial acknowledgment of work-related stress to the employment of coping strategies and development of effective stress management methods. The study further explores how various aspects of the work environment shape these experiences and responses.The study's findings offer a substantial contribution to the existing body of literature on work stress and coping mechanisms in the hotel industry. They provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by hotel employees, informing academics and industry practitioners to facilitate the creation of effective interventions and support systems, ultimately aiming to improve job satisfaction and employee well-being within the hotel industry.