Next move… for would-be general managers

Do hotel companies run trainee general manager programmes? And, if so, what would I need to do to be taken on?
Many companies offer management trainee schemes. In some cases, these will include the opportunity to gain further qualifications, such as NVQs.

To be accepted for a programme, you'll need to show that you're committed to the business, hard-working and ambitious to succeed. Work experience in the industry is important, as well as good GCSEs.

However, don't be put off if you didn't do as well as you would have liked at school. If you have good employer references and the ability to learn, poor GCSE results won't count against you.

You could also suggest working for a trial period with a hotel company, to show your commitment, before moving into its management training programme.

Johnny Johnson, communications consultant, Hotel and Catering Training Company