The Impact of Demographic Influences on Work Engagement for Front of House Female Hotel Employees

Abstract

The demographic influences affecting the wellbeing of front of house (FoH) female employees who are employed in hotels. The work engagement subscales, vigour, dedication and absorption were measured against the participants’ age, level of education and marital status. A cross-sectional survey was done from a sample (n = 100) of female participants. A biographical questionnaire and The Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) were administered. Significant relationships were found on the vigour, dedication and absorption subscales. FoH female employees younger than 35, those with tertiary education and those without life partners displayed higher levels of wellbeing. Therefore work engagement levels vary with regards to age, marital and educational status. Human resource specialists for hotels could measure work engagement and apply it through in-house policies and supportive practices as well as defend these practices regarding their FOH female employees as female employees are the majority of employees within the hospitality industry. The workforce in South Africa is characterized by demographic diversity. The variances of work engagement are imperative as it enhances the guest experience and improves productivity and ultimately increases financial turnover for the hotels who operate in a very competitive market.