From funny moments (like delivering a mosquito repellent to a guest instead of mojito!) to the fast pace of the industry, there isn’t anything Pond doesn’t love about hospitality.
Tell us about your career in hospitality and the journey that brought you to STAAH.
Hospitality was always my calling. The glamour and outgoing nature of the industry was totally up my alley. So, when the time came to make a career choice, hospitality was my preferred choice.
I graduated from the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism, Phuket and started as a reservation sales agent in a hotel soon after. I picked up my reservations and e-commerce skills here – early off in my career. My next job came two years later as a senior reservations supervisor, which involved setting up the reservations team and hotel operations as part of the pre-opening team in a prestigious hotel. I can never forget the happy moment when the first guest checked in – and everything went smoothly!
What do you think you will like most about STAAH and your new job?
Everyone here is an innovator. Ideas are discussed, client and partner inputs are sought and developed into features for everyone benefit. I am delighted to be a part of the company with such a participative culture and helping properties of all sizes reach their true online potential.
What is your mantra for success in the hospitality industry?
The hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing industries worldwide. If you want to stay ahead of the curve here, network, network, and network. It’s the only way to survive and thrive in hospitality.
Hospitality is tiring; at the same time, it is a lot of fun. Tell us about a funny career incident that you can’t get out of your head.
In my first ever hotel internship, I misunderstood a guest’s order. He called in for a mojito, but because of the noise around me, I didn’t quite catch what he was saying. To me, it sounded like his room had mosquitos! So, I promptly called housekeeping and sent mosquito repellent for the guest! You can only imagine the reaction of the guest when housekeeping handed in the spray. It’s a story that has stayed with me – will probably never be forgotten.
What are your interests outside STAAH?
I love cooking. I’m not a chef but I’m passionate about food – the tradition of it, cooking it, and sharing it.
Feel free to connect with Pond here.