Are you passionate about the art of hospitality? Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring host, there’s a book on hospitality out there for everyone. From timeless classics to modern must-reads, the world of hospitality books is rich with wisdom, insights, and practical advice. Join us as we explore the 20 best books about hospitality that will inspire, inform, and elevate your understanding of this essential industry.
The Airbnb Story by Leigh Gallagher is a captivating book about the rise of the popular accommodation-sharing platform. Gallagher delves into the founding of Airbnb and its journey to becoming a global phenomenon, exploring the challenges and successes along the way. The book offers an in-depth look at the innovative business model and the impact it has had on the traditional hospitality industry. Gallagher provides insights into the founders’ vision and the company’s disruptive approach to travel and lodging. The Airbnb Story is a must-read for anyone interested in the sharing economy, entrepreneurship, and the evolution of the hospitality industry. With its engaging storytelling and compelling insights, this book about hospitality is sure to inspire and inform readers about the power of innovation and adaptation in the modern business world.
Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business
by Danny Meyer
Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business by Danny Meyer is a compelling book on hospitality that delves into the art of creating exceptional dining experiences. Meyer, the renowned restaurateur behind Shake Shack and Union Square Cafe, shares his insights on the importance of genuine hospitality in the business world. Through engaging anecdotes and practical advice, he explores how the principles of hospitality can transform a company’s culture and elevate the customer experience. Meyer’s approach to creating a warm and welcoming environment is applicable not only to the restaurant industry but also to any business that values building strong relationships with clients and employees. Whether you’re a seasoned hospitality professional or a business leader looking to enhance your company’s service, this hospitality book offers valuable lessons on the power of genuine hospitality in driving success.
The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact
by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
The Power of Moments explores the profound impact of special moments in our lives, and how we can intentionally create and enhance these experiences. Authors Chip Heath and Dan Heath delve into the psychology behind what makes certain moments memorable and impactful, and offer practical strategies for individuals and organizations to harness the power of these moments. Drawing from a wide range of examples, from memorable vacations to exceptional customer service, the book provides insights that are valuable for anyone seeking to create meaningful connections and lasting impressions. Whether you’re in the hospitality industry or simply interested in the art of creating remarkable experiences, this book on hospitality is a compelling read that will shift your perspective on the moments that matter most.
The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company
by Joseph Michelli
The New Gold Standard is a book on hospitality that provides an inside look at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and its renowned customer service. Joseph Michelli explores the five leadership principles that have made Ritz-Carlton a legendary brand in the hospitality industry. Through real-life examples and interviews with Ritz-Carlton employees, Michelli uncovers the strategies and practices that have helped the company create exceptional experiences for its guests. Readers will gain valuable insights into how to cultivate a customer-centric culture, empower employees, and exceed customer expectations. This hospitality book offers practical guidance for leaders and managers looking to elevate their customer service and create a lasting impact in their industry.
The Heart of Hospitality: Great Hotel and Restaurant Leaders Share Their Secrets
by Micah Solomon
The Heart of Hospitality: Great Hotel and Restaurant Leaders Share Their Secrets by Micah Solomon is a captivating hospitality book that delves into the world of exceptional hotel and restaurant management. Through insightful interviews, Solomon provides readers with a behind-the-scenes look at the strategies and philosophies of industry leaders who have achieved remarkable success. The book offers valuable lessons on creating exceptional guest experiences, building a strong team, and fostering a culture of hospitality excellence. With a focus on customer service, leadership, and innovation, this book on hospitality is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to thrive in the competitive world of hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring hospitality enthusiast, The Heart of Hospitality offers practical wisdom and inspiration for achieving excellence in the industry.
The Hotel: A Week in the Life of the Plaza by Sonny Kleinfield offers a captivating glimpse into the inner workings of one of the most iconic hotels in the world. This immersive book on hospitality takes readers on a journey through the daily operations of The Plaza Hotel, showcasing the dedication and attention to detail required to maintain its reputation for luxury and excellence. Kleinfield provides a behind-the-scenes look at the staff and guests, revealing the intricate web of relationships and experiences that make up the hotel’s bustling atmosphere. Through vivid storytelling and in-depth research, the author paints a vivid picture of the hospitality industry, making this book about hospitality a must-read for anyone interested in the inner workings of a five-star hotel. Whether you’re a hospitality professional or simply a lover of immersive non-fiction, The Hotel offers an unforgettable exploration of luxury, service, and the human experience within the world of hospitality.
The Hotel on Place Vendome: Life, Death, and Betrayal at the Hotel Ritz in Paris
by Tilar J. Mazzeo
The Hotel on Place Vendome is a captivating non-fiction book about the legendary Hotel Ritz in Paris. Tilar J. Mazzeo takes readers on a fascinating journey through the hotel’s luxurious history, revealing the secrets, scandals, and betrayals that have taken place within its opulent walls. This book on hospitality delves into the lives of the hotel’s famous guests, including Coco Chanel, Ernest Hemingway, and Princess Diana, painting a vivid picture of the glamour and intrigue that surrounded the Ritz. Mazzeo skillfully weaves together the stories of the hotel’s staff and patrons, offering a rich and immersive exploration of the power, passion, and tragedy that unfolded in this iconic establishment. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of Parisian culture, or simply love a good tale of intrigue, this hospitality book is sure to captivate and enthrall.
The Power of Positive Leadership: How and Why Positive Leaders Transform Teams and Organizations and Change the World
by Jon Gordon
The Power of Positive Leadership by Jon Gordon explores the impact of positive leadership on teams, organizations, and the world. Gordon delves into the importance of fostering a positive mindset and creating a culture of optimism within a team or organization. He provides practical strategies and insights for leaders to inspire and empower their team members, ultimately leading to improved performance and a more cohesive work environment. Through real-life examples and compelling stories, Gordon demonstrates how positive leaders can transform their organizations and make a meaningful difference in the world. This book is a valuable resource for anyone in a leadership role, offering actionable advice on how to cultivate a positive and productive work environment.
The Airbnb Story: How Three Ordinary Guys Disrupted an Industry, Made Billions…and Created Plenty of Controversy
by Leigh Gallagher
The Airbnb Story by Leigh Gallagher is a captivating book about hospitality that delves into the rise of the groundbreaking company. Gallagher takes readers on a journey through the creation of Airbnb and the disruptive impact it had on the travel and accommodation industry. The book explores the struggles and triumphs of the three ordinary guys behind the platform, and how they turned it into a multi-billion-dollar empire. Gallagher also delves into the controversies and challenges that Airbnb faced along the way, providing a comprehensive look at the company’s evolution. This hospitality book offers valuable insights into the sharing economy, entrepreneurship, and the power of innovation. It is a must-read for anyone interested in business, technology, and the ever-evolving world of hospitality.
Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose
by Tony Hsieh
Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh is a captivating book on hospitality that takes readers on a journey through the author’s own experiences in the business world, particularly in the online shoe retailer Zappos. Hsieh shares his insights on the importance of creating a company culture that prioritizes customer satisfaction and employee happiness. The book offers valuable lessons on how to build a successful business by focusing on delivering exceptional customer service and fostering a positive work environment. Through engaging storytelling and practical advice, Hsieh’s book about hospitality provides a roadmap for entrepreneurs and business leaders who want to create a company that not only thrives financially but also brings joy and fulfillment to both customers and employees. Delivering Happiness is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of business, happiness, and hospitality.
The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company
by Joseph A. Michelli
The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company by Joseph A. Michelli is a captivating book on hospitality that offers an inside look at the renowned Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Michelli reveals the five key leadership principles that have made the Ritz-Carlton a global leader in luxury hospitality. Through real-life examples and insights from Ritz-Carlton executives, Michelli demonstrates how the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence, employee empowerment, and customer service has set a new standard for the industry. Readers will gain valuable knowledge and actionable strategies for creating exceptional guest experiences and building a culture of service excellence within their own organizations. This hospitality book is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their customer experience and leadership skills in the service industry.
Be Our Guest: Perfecting the Art of Customer Service
by Disney Institute
Be Our Guest: Perfecting the Art of Customer Service by Disney Institute is a renowned book on hospitality that offers valuable insights into the world-famous customer service philosophy of Disney. This hospitality book provides practical strategies and techniques for creating magical experiences for customers, drawing on the principles and practices that have made Disney a global leader in the hospitality industry. With a focus on creating a customer-centric culture, exceeding expectations, and delivering exceptional service, this book about hospitality is a must-read for anyone in the service industry. Through real-life examples and case studies, Be Our Guest offers a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of customer service and creating unforgettable experiences for guests. Whether you’re in the hospitality industry or simply interested in delivering exceptional service, this book is filled with practical wisdom and actionable insights that will elevate your approach to customer service.
The Thank You Economy by Gary Vaynerchuk is a captivating book about the power of gratitude and genuine connection in business. Vaynerchuk emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with customers and clients in the digital age, where social media and online interactions have become the norm. He argues that in today’s competitive market, success lies in treating every customer interaction as an opportunity to create a positive and memorable experience. The book offers valuable insights and strategies for businesses to leverage the ‘thank you’ mindset to foster loyalty, trust, and ultimately drive growth. With its practical advice and real-life examples, The Thank You Economy is a must-read for anyone looking to thrive in the modern world of business. If you’re in the hospitality industry, this book on hospitality will provide valuable insights for building lasting connections with your guests.
The Best Service is No Service: How to Liberate Your Customers from Customer Service, Keep Them Happy, and Control Costs
by Bill Price and David Jaffe
The Best Service is No Service is a groundbreaking book on hospitality that challenges the traditional approach to customer service. Authors Bill Price and David Jaffe argue that the key to keeping customers happy and controlling costs is to eliminate the need for customer service altogether. They propose a radical shift in mindset, focusing on preventing problems rather than simply reacting to them. Drawing on their experiences with successful companies, the authors provide practical strategies for creating a seamless and satisfying customer experience. This thought-provoking book about hospitality emphasizes the importance of understanding and meeting customer needs, ultimately leading to reduced service costs and increased customer loyalty. It’s a must-read for anyone in the service industry looking to revolutionize their approach to customer satisfaction.
The Experience Economy by B. Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore is a groundbreaking book that explores the shift in the business world from selling products and services to creating memorable experiences for customers. This influential book delves into the concept of creating unique and immersive experiences to engage and satisfy customers, ultimately driving greater success for businesses. The authors emphasize the importance of creating memorable moments and connections with customers, making the case for the transformation of businesses into experience providers. With insightful examples and practical strategies, this book is a must-read for anyone in the business, service, or hospitality industry.
The Nordstrom Way to Customer Service Excellence: A Handbook For Implementing Great Service in Your Organization
by Robert Spector
The Nordstrom Way to Customer Service Excellence: A Handbook For Implementing Great Service in Your Organization by Robert Spector is a comprehensive guide to delivering exceptional customer service. This book on hospitality provides insights into the renowned customer service culture of Nordstrom, a leading retail company. The author delves into the principles and strategies that have made Nordstrom a symbol of exceptional customer service, offering valuable lessons that can be applied to any organization. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of customer satisfaction, employee empowerment, and creating a customer-centric culture. Through real-life examples and practical advice, this hospitality book equips organizations with the tools and techniques to implement great service and build strong customer relationships. Whether you are in retail, hospitality, or any other industry, this book about hospitality is a valuable resource for achieving service excellence.
The Upstarts: How Uber, Airbnb, and the Killer Companies of the New Silicon Valley are Changing the World
by Brad Stone
The Upstarts by Brad Stone is a captivating book about disruptive companies in the new Silicon Valley. Stone delves into the rise of two of the most influential companies in recent years, Uber and Airbnb, and the impact they have had on the hospitality industry. The book explores the innovative and often controversial methods these companies have used to transform the way people travel and find accommodations. Stone provides a behind-the-scenes look at the ambitious founders and the challenges they faced as they revolutionized the hospitality sector. The Upstarts offers a fascinating insight into the world of technology-driven businesses and the profound changes they have brought to the way we think about travel and accommodation. Stone’s engaging storytelling makes this a must-read for anyone interested in the fast-paced world of tech and its impact on the hospitality industry.
The Long Tail: Why the Future of Business is Selling Less of More
by Chris Anderson
The Long Tail by Chris Anderson discusses the shift in consumer behavior and the impact it has on businesses. Anderson argues that the digital age has allowed for an expansion of choice and availability, resulting in a move away from the traditional model of selling a small number of popular items. Instead, he introduces the concept of the “long tail,” where businesses can profit from selling a large number of niche products to a smaller, but still significant, market. This book delves into the power of the internet and how it has transformed the way businesses operate, catering to the diverse interests and needs of consumers. Whether you are a business owner or simply interested in the changing landscape of commerce, The Long Tail offers valuable insights into the future of selling and the potential for success in the digital era.
The Service Culture Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Employees Obsessed with Customer Service
by Jeff Toister
The Service Culture Handbook is a comprehensive guide to creating a customer-centric culture within your organization. Jeff Toister, a renowned expert in the field of customer service, offers a step-by-step approach to help businesses cultivate a culture of exceptional service. This hospitality book provides practical advice on how to engage and motivate employees to deliver outstanding customer experiences. With real-world examples and actionable strategies, Toister demonstrates how to empower your team to become obsessed with providing exceptional service. Whether you’re in the hospitality industry or any other customer-facing business, this book about hospitality is a valuable resource for leaders and managers looking to elevate their organization’s service culture.
The Experience Economy: Competing for Customer Time, Attention, and Money
by B. Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore
The Experience Economy: Competing for Customer Time, Attention, and Money by B. Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore is a groundbreaking book on hospitality that explores the shift from providing goods and services to creating memorable and transformative experiences for customers. The authors argue that in a world of abundance, where products and services are easily replicated, the key to success lies in staging engaging and immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression. Drawing on examples from various industries, including entertainment, retail, and hospitality, the book provides practical insights on how businesses can design and deliver experiences that captivate and delight customers, ultimately driving loyalty and profitability. This thought-provoking book about hospitality is essential reading for anyone in the business of creating memorable experiences for their customers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 best books about Hospitality offer valuable insights and practical tips for anyone working in the hospitality industry. Whether you’re a hotel manager, restaurant owner, or event planner, these books provide a wealth of knowledge on customer service, leadership, and business management. By delving into these resources, you can enhance your skills and stay ahead in the competitive world of hospitality.
Which Hospitality book is best?
The best book on Hospitality can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Hospitality?
For those looking to learn about Hospitality, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Hospitality are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Hospitality books of all time?
Choosing the best Hospitality books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
