The privileges and responsibilities of a general Manager

Two weeks into my first role as a hotel General Manager at age 33, I felt like a caged tiger.

I wanted to run onto the floor and fix everything myself - but I forced myself to sit in my office.

By week three, I understood why I felt that way.

With the privilege of running a hotel comes heavy responsibility. The building feels alive. The operation feels enormous. It’s like being the mayor of a small town.

Then I realized something that changed everything.

The first attribute of a great GM is humility. Power is not a weapon. It’s an opportunity to lead. You don’t demand respect - you earn it.

The second is equality. To the guest, you are not the most important person. The dishwasher is. The room attendant is. The chef is. Without them, there is no experience.

And the third is the ability to listen and ask. No GM knows everything. The best ones aren’t afraid to learn from anyone - especially frontline staff.

Leadership isn’t about control.

It’s about bringing the orchestra together.

You may be the conductor - but every musician matters.

Never forget: you all succeed together.