Exclusive Interview | Sanjay Gupta, General Manager, Sheraton Grand Whitefield
/“We are continuously evolving to meet the changing needs and preferences of our guests, leveraging technology and innovation to enhance the guest experience. Our focus on sustainability and community engagement is also a key part of our future vision.”
The new, young traveler wants experiences and insta-ready content. What do you have in store for them?
At Sheraton Grand Bangalore Whitefield Hotel, we understand the needs and preferences of the new, young traveler. Our hotel offers a range of unique experiences, from culinary adventures to cultural immersion, all curated to provide memorable moments that are ready to be shared on social media.
We promote staycations in our property where we offer a combined experience of the essence of Bangalore paired with luxury accommodation. This ensures that guests have plenty of Insta-worthy content to share with their followers. Moreover, we have an in-house team of social media strategists who collaborate with influencers to provide in-depth insights into the experience we offer. By offering not just a place to stay, but also memorable experiences tailored to the new traveler’s interests, we aim to exceed their expectations and create lasting memories.
What does the future look like?
The future for the hospitality industry, especially for Sheraton Bangalore Whitefield, is exciting and full of possibilities. We are continuously evolving to meet the changing needs and preferences of our guests, leveraging technology and innovation to enhance the guest experience. Our focus on sustainability and community engagement is also a key part of our future vision. Personally, I see myself taking on more leadership roles within the company and driving forward innovative marketing strategies that resonate with our target audience.
Making a vision into a reality can be very daunting. We would love a deep dive into your process for all your initiatives.
Transforming vision into reality requires a strategic and collaborative approach. For each initiative, we start by conducting thorough market research and analysis to understand our target audience and their needs. We then brainstorm creative ideas and concepts, considering factors such as feasibility, budget, and potential ROI. Once a concept is selected, we create a detailed project plan with clear objectives, timelines, and responsibilities. Regular meetings and updates are held to ensure everyone is aligned and progress is on track. Throughout the process, we also collect feedback and data to measure the success of our initiatives and make necessary adjustments.
Share with us some new learnings from this project for you, personally.
One of the key learnings from this project has been the importance of agility and adaptability. As the market landscape and consumer preferences continue to evolve, it is crucial to be able to quickly pivot and adjust our strategies. The importance of storytelling and creating emotional connections with our audience has also been reinforced. By sharing authentic and compelling stories, we can create a deeper bond with our guests and differentiate ourselves from the competition.
How do you think AI will impact our industry? Specific jobs, processes etc?
AI has the potential to revolutionize the hospitality industry, from personalized guest experiences to streamlined operations. For example, AI-powered chatbots can provide instant customer support and personalized recommendations, enhancing the guest experience. In terms of specific jobs, AI may automate repetitive tasks, freeing up employees to focus on more creative and strategic roles.
However, it is important to strike a balance between automation and human touch, as hospitality is ultimately a people-centric industry. AI has the potential to drive efficiency, improve guest satisfaction, and unlock new opportunities for innovation.
