From challenges to solutions: a roadmap for hospitality and tourism practitioners

Purpose This theme issue sought to find answers to the question: How do international hospitality and tourism practitioners perceive their industry’s recruitment and retention challenges? Design/methodology/approach The current paper presents a summary of the recommendations based on the article collection in this theme issue, based on a basic thematic analysis. Findings Three major strategies were highlighted: workforce attraction and employer branding; retention and employee engagement and strategic human resources and leadership development. Some actionable priorities are leadership evolution by implementing empowerment-driven leadership styles; career transparency by defining promotion paths and offering mentorship; workplace flexibility by providing adaptive work arrangements; well-being and mental health by supporting employees beyond salary and strategic branding by improving industry perception and digital recruitment. Originality/value The paper documents the theme issue findings and provides clear strategies and action plans for hospitality and tourism practitioners.