Victoria Knauer - Hansen leads the WHTT community in Hamburg and back up our mission to advocate for a more diverse culture in hospitality and travel-tech organizations.
Chapter Leader: Victoria Knauer - Hansen is a hospitality professional and chapter leader for WHTT Hamburg.
Get to know Victoria better in the following blog interview and learn more about WHTT Hamburg chapter plans.
What was your first travel job and what did it teach you?
My first travel job was working in Abu Dhabi, UAE. It was an awesome experience which thought me a lot. I was introduced to a completely new level of service, culture, heritage and personally I was forced to grow up. It was the first time I was totally on my own. It was tough being confronted with those big culture and lifestyle differences which truly changed my perspective in any possible way.
Why did you decide to work in hospitality?
Because I was always good by interacting with people. Hospitality is amazing as it is opening the door to the world.
What's one book or movie you'd recommend to other tourism professionals?
“The heart of hospitality” by Micah Solomon. It covers all main points in the industry and how to thrive in them. Just the technology part might not be up to date any longer.
Why did you become a WHTT chapter leader?
During my career it was mainly women who supported my development. By heart that is nothing against men but I want to encourage women in who they are and what they can achieve. That is why I want to give something back. And of course for my city Hamburg.
It is important to remember how you started, where you come from and that you need people who believe in you. I totally trust that if we work together we can make an amazing difference for us and the future generations. And simply because it is fun. I wouldn't do it if I would not love what I do.
What are the current hospitality and travel tech challenges in Hamburg?
One thing is definitely to motivate trainees to learn the profession and start the education.
I hope to play a part in contributing the passion of working in hospitality with our work.
Second challenge is still technology. I think each hotel should see it as a chance and not as a menace. Digitalisation can actually help by reducing costs, sales increase and gives the possibility of looking after guests in a different way.
Third big issue is sustainability. Housekeeping and waste disposal are just examples. And not to forget the issues that every city and country fights right now due to COVID-19. I see it as a chance to focus on the technology part and reconsider the guests' needs.
What are your chapter plans for 2021?
To establish WHTT in Hamburg and get the opportunities to work with corporate partners. And definitely to meet all members in person for an event as I believe that is what everybody is aiming for during these times. Hopefully we`ll bring value and inspiration to each member's life. If they use it personally or business wise is an individual choice.
How can members get involved with WHTT Hamburg?
Become a WHTT member, join our activities and get in touch with me anytime. I am very open for new suggestions and ideas in order to provide the best possible content.
🙋♀️ Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn and follow WHTT.
👉 If you want to open a new chapter for WHTT in your city, please fill out this questionnaire.
Comments