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60 Seconds with Stephen · #10

Employees breaking rules?

When it comes to misconduct in hotels, clarity matters.

Sexual assault or abuse? If proven, dismissal is immediate. No hesitation. Reputation and guest safety are everything.

But allegations must be properly investigated. Careers can be destroyed by assumption alone. In my experience, I’ve seen both false accusations - and clear admissions of guilt. The key is strict policies, written guidelines, and fair investigation before action.

The same applies to theft. Proven theft requires dismissal. Police involvement? That depends on severity and circumstances. Sometimes termination is lesson enough. Not every mistake needs to become a life-long record - but integrity must be protected.

And bullying? Zero tolerance. Whether staff bullying staff, or guests abusing employees. I have expelled guests for mistreating team members. If you don’t protect your people, you destroy your culture.

Here’s the principle:

Enforce rules firmly. Investigate fairly. Act decisively when guilt is proven.

Cover-ups always surface. Strong leadership means protecting the innocent, removing the guilty, and safeguarding the culture that keeps your hotel thriving.