Women's ‘diplomacy gene' helps careers in hospitality

Are women genetically better programmed than men to succeed in the hotel and restaurant business?

It's a distinct possibility, if a report from the Institute of Child Health is to be believed. It suggests that girls are born with a gene which helps them understand social situations intuitively, while boys must learn these social skills as they grow up.

The "diplomacy gene" may help explain why women dominate the hospitality industry - accounting for 73% of the workforce. Earlier theories that this is because hospitality is low paid and offers flexible working may not be the whole answer.

Robyn Jones, managing director of Charlton House Catering, firmly believes women are better suited to the business.

"They are warmer and more welcoming. And women are more prepared to chat about non-work-related situations," said Ms Jones. "Also, women tend less to have hidden agendas and, being more open, they are easier to work with."

Diane Miller, ex-president of the HCIMA and general manager of the Glasgow Marriott, was less convinced.

"Women may be more sociable but they also come into the industry because it offers flexible working," she said.