In honour of National Business Women's Week we caught up with Katie Wickison, Reception Manager and successful business woman at One Warwick Park Hotel...
1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your typical day.
As Reception Manager I find that every day is unique and brings new challenges. I can often be found leading and advising my team from behind the desk while working through emails and paperwork on screen. My role is hands on, I have to immerse myself in ensuring a smooth customer experience and solving those day to day problems when they arise.
2. How did you get to where you are today, and who/what helped you along the way?
I wouldn't be where I am today without my dads words of wisdom! I've also been blessed to work with people who are really dedicated to the business and saw something in me that could be nurtured and developed, so for that I'm very grateful.
3. How do you achieve a work-life balance?
Prioritising at work is fundamental but equally important in life! I make sure there's time for exercise, hobbies, socialising, food and plenty of rest.
4. What is your motivation to stay focused and do well?
Positive feedback, hitting targets and having a happy team keeps me motivated. The best recipe I've found in order to keep pushing forward.
5. As a Reception Manager, what's one of the biggest advances in your sector over the past five years?
I think, probably the importance of the customer journey and experience, it's no longer just a room for the night, guests are looking for so much more. With technology taking over it makes it even tougher to provide that personalised journey from the start.
6. Describe a major business challenge you've had and how you resolved it.
Building up occupancy from the ground with no reputation or reviews to rely upon presented quite a challenge. Consistently trying to come up with fresh ideas, rate strategies, competitive offers and upselling helped us get where we are today.
7. What's an accomplishment that you are proudest of?
Getting the role at One Warwick Park Hotel initially opened so many doors for me and allowed me to get on to the property ladder which was a proud moment. Since then, having the confidence to drive my department forward and hit targets I didn't think were possible!
8. What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace?
Don't rule yourself out of a career just because you don't have a degree, you don't necessarily need one to progress in business, if you're focused and hardworking your perseverance will reward you in the end!
