Life and work history analysis: the value of this research method for hospitality and tourism

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to discuss life and work history analysis in order to demonstrate the value of this research method for hospitality and tourism. Despite a well-established use of life and work history data as a research method in the social sciences, as yet it has received little application to hospitality and tourism research. In pursuit of its aims the paper explores three main themes. The starting point is to trace the development and examine the use of the life and work history method in social science research. Second, a discussion of the use of the work history method in a study of UK hotel general managers is outlined to demonstrate how work history analysis can be used to provide information on past and present labour market conditions. Finally, it is argued that the information provided by undertaking work history analysis has particular relevance for the hospitality and tourism industry.