Professional Knowledge and Abilities

Succeeding in the field that a person chooses to get a degree in is just as important, if not more important, than obtaining the actual degree. Receiving a degree in Business Management does not necessarily mean that one will succeed. Success requires a person to be persistent and ever changing with the world around them as well as learning from others in the same field. Often times a person needs more than just a mentor and needs to belong to something bigger; an organization that supports what he or she is trying to achieve.

After doing research online I was able to find an organization that supports the line of business that I wish to pursue. Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) is a professional organization that is focused on supporting those in the hospitality industry. "With a strong focus on education, HSMAI has become the industry champion in identifying and communicating trends in the hospitality industry while operating as a leading voice for both hospitality and sales and marketing management disciplines, as well as connecting its members with customers. (About HSMAI, para. 1). Founded in 1927, HSMAI currently has more than 7,000 members in 35 countries around the world.

In 1983 HSMAI established a foundation for the sole purpose of allowing members to research and educate themselves further on their quest for knowledge. "The Foundation's mission is to expand and enhance the educational opportunities available to hospitality sales and marketing professionals and to increase the amount of in-depth research conducted on behalf of the profession." (HSMAI Foundation, para. 1). Having access to information resources like those provided by the association will allow newcomers to the industry to be able to be mentored by others in the organization and allow them to remain up-to-date with their knowledge of the trends of the industry as they are constantly changing. This knowledge not only helps the person that is new to the industry be a frontline competitor for a career with a high profile hospitality leader, but it also can help ensure their success in the field of hospitality. Having access to tools that can continue education years beyond college keeps one up to date on the newest marketing tactics, strategies that competitors are using for success as well as what consumers are trending towards.

Obtaining information from this organization will secure my success within the field I have chosen to pursue. From having the ability to network with others within the same field to having resourceful tools that allow me to research new ideas at my fingertips, I will be set up for success. I feel that the association was built to help people in the hospitality industry and has shown its own success by remaining intact during extremely difficult times. The organization has stood the test of time as well as an economic downfall or two and continues to strive to be