Are you looking for some inspiration in the world of hospitality? Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in the industry, a good book on hospitality can provide valuable insights and ideas to help you excel in your career. In this article, we’ve curated a list of the 20 best hospitality books that cover a wide range of topics including customer service, leadership, and hotel management. These books are filled with practical advice, real-life examples, and expert guidance to help you succeed in the fast-paced and dynamic world of hospitality. So, grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the world of hospitality literature!
Contents
- 1 20 Best Hospitality Books
- 2 The Airbnb Story
- 3 Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business
- 4 The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact
- 5 The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company
- 6 The Heart of Hospitality: Great Hotel and Restaurant Leaders Share Their Secrets
- 7 The Hotel: A Week in the Life of the Plaza
- 8 The Hotel on Place Vendome: Life, Death, and Betrayal at the Hotel Ritz in Paris
- 9 The Power of Positive Leadership: How and Why Positive Leaders Transform Teams and Organizations and Change the World
- 10 The Airbnb Story: How Three Ordinary Guys Disrupted an Industry, Made Billions…and Created Plenty of Controversy
- 11 Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose
- 12 The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company
- 13 Be Our Guest: Perfecting the Art of Customer Service
- 14 The Thank You Economy
- 15 The Best Service is No Service: How to Liberate Your Customers from Customer Service, Keep Them Happy, and Control Costs
- 16 The Experience Economy
- 17 The Nordstrom Way to Customer Service Excellence: A Handbook For Implementing Great Service in Your Organization
- 18 The Upstarts: How Uber, Airbnb, and the Killer Companies of the New Silicon Valley are Changing the World
- 19 The Long Tail: Why the Future of Business is Selling Less of More
- 20 The Service Culture Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Employees Obsessed with Customer Service
- 21 The Experience Economy: Competing for Customer Time, Attention, and Money
- 22 Final Thoughts on Best Hospitality Books
- 23
20 Best Hospitality Books
The Airbnb Story
by Leigh Gallagher
The Airbnb Story by Leigh Gallagher is a captivating book on hospitality that takes readers on a journey through the founding and growth of the revolutionary company, Airbnb. Gallagher provides a detailed account of how the founders transformed the way people travel and experience accommodations, turning spare rooms and homes into unique lodging options for travelers around the world.
Through engaging storytelling and in-depth research, Gallagher delves into the challenges and triumphs of the company, offering valuable insights into the world of hospitality and entrepreneurship. The book about hospitality explores the impact of Airbnb on the travel industry, as well as the cultural and economic implications of the sharing economy.
Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the innovative business model and the power of community and connection in the hospitality industry. The Airbnb Story is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of hospitality and the transformative potential of disruptive ideas.
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 captivating book about the art and importance of providing exceptional customer service. Meyer, a renowned restaurateur and hospitality expert, shares his insights and experiences on how hospitality can transform businesses and create lasting connections with customers. The book is a compelling blend of memoir and business advice, offering valuable lessons on leadership, teamwork, and the impact of genuine hospitality on the bottom line. Meyer’s passion for creating welcoming and inclusive environments shines through as he shares his philosophy on the transformative power of hospitality in business.
Whether you’re in the restaurant industry, hospitality sector, or any customer-facing business, this book about hospitality will inspire you to elevate your approach to serving others. Meyer’s engaging storytelling and practical wisdom make Setting the Table a must-read for anyone looking to understand the true essence of hospitality and its profound impact on business success. Get ready to be inspired and enlightened by this insightful hospitality book.
The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact
by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact by Chip Heath and Dan Heath is a captivating exploration of the profound impact that powerful, memorable moments can have on our lives. This thought-provoking book delves into the science behind what makes certain experiences stand out and discusses how individuals and organizations can create and harness these impactful moments. Whether it’s a special event, a customer interaction, or a personal achievement, the authors delve into the elements that make these moments so meaningful and how we can intentionally design more of them. The Power of Moments is a hospitality book that offers valuable insights for anyone looking to create exceptional experiences for their guests, customers, or even their own personal relationships. Through engaging stories and practical advice, the Heath brothers provide a compelling case for the importance of crafting memorable moments and show how these moments can leave a lasting impression on those we interact with. This book about hospitality is a must-read for anyone seeking to elevate their understanding of the power of impactful experiences.
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 by Joseph Michelli is a captivating book on hospitality that delves into the leadership principles of the renowned Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Michelli takes readers on a journey through the five key principles that have helped Ritz-Carlton create a legendary customer experience. Through captivating storytelling and insightful analysis, the book provides valuable lessons on how to elevate the standard of service and create a culture of exceptional hospitality.
Readers will gain a deep understanding of the core values that drive the success of Ritz-Carlton, and how these principles can be applied to any organization seeking to deliver unparalleled customer satisfaction. The book is rich with practical strategies and real-life examples that offer a roadmap for achieving excellence in the hospitality industry. Whether you’re a seasoned hospitality professional or someone looking to enhance their leadership skills, The New Gold Standard is a must-read for anyone passionate about delivering exceptional customer experiences.
by Micah Solomon
The Heart of Hospitality: Great Hotel and Restaurant Leaders Share Their Secrets by Micah Solomon is a captivating book on hospitality that delves into the world of exceptional customer service. In this insightful read, Solomon shares the wisdom and experiences of top leaders in the hospitality industry, offering valuable insights into what makes a hotel or restaurant truly exceptional. From creating a welcoming atmosphere to building a loyal customer base, this book about hospitality covers a wide range of topics essential for success in the industry.
Readers can expect to learn about the importance of attention to detail, the power of personalized service, and the impact of strong leadership in creating a memorable guest experience. With engaging storytelling and practical advice, The Heart of Hospitality is a must-read for anyone in the hospitality business or anyone interested in the art of creating extraordinary customer experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the industry, this hospitality book is sure to inspire and provide valuable insights for success.
The Hotel: A Week in the Life of the Plaza
by Sonny Kleinfield
The Hotel: A Week in the Life of the Plaza by Sonny Kleinfield is a captivating book on hospitality that offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of New York City’s most iconic hotels. Kleinfield takes readers on a journey through the daily operations of The Plaza, revealing the intricate workings of the staff, the challenges they face, and the unforgettable experiences they provide for their guests. Through vivid storytelling and insightful interviews, the book paints a vivid picture of the dedication and passion that goes into creating a luxurious and welcoming environment for visitors. Whether you’re a hospitality professional or simply curious about the inner workings of a renowned hotel, this book about hospitality is sure to provide an engaging and enlightening read.
The Hotel on Place Vendome: Life, Death, and Betrayal at the Hotel Ritz in Paris
by Tilar J. Mazzeo
The Hotel on Place Vendome: Life, Death, and Betrayal at the Hotel Ritz in Paris by Tilar J. Mazzeo is a captivating exploration of the legendary Ritz Hotel in Paris. This book delves into the glamorous world of luxury hospitality, revealing the fascinating history and the scandalous secrets that have unfolded within its opulent walls.
With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Mazzeo immerses readers in the captivating tales of the hotel’s illustrious guests, including Coco Chanel, Ernest Hemingway, and the Nazi occupiers during World War II. The author masterfully weaves together the stories of love, betrayal, and espionage that have shaped the Ritz’s legacy.
From the extravagant parties to the clandestine meetings, The Hotel on Place Vendome offers a tantalizing glimpse into the intricate world of high-end hospitality. Mazzeo’s evocative prose and attention to detail make this book a must-read for anyone with a passion for history, luxury, and intrigue.
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 is a transformative book about the impact of positive leadership on teams, organizations, and the world. In this insightful and engaging read, Gordon explores the importance of positive leadership in driving success and creating a thriving work environment. Through real-life examples and practical strategies, he demonstrates how positive leaders can inspire and empower their teams to achieve greatness.
This book is a must-read for anyone in a leadership role, as it provides valuable insights on how to cultivate a positive and empowering work culture. Gordon’s powerful message resonates with leaders across various industries and emphasizes the profound impact of positivity on productivity, engagement, and overall success. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or aspiring to enhance your leadership skills, The Power of Positive Leadership offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you transform your team and organization.
The Airbnb Story: How Three Ordinary Guys Disrupted an Industry, Made Billions…and Created Plenty of Controversy
by Leigh Gallagher
The Airbnb Story: How Three Ordinary Guys Disrupted an Industry, Made Billions…and Created Plenty of Controversy by Leigh Gallagher is a captivating book about the disruptive force of the sharing economy on the traditional hospitality industry. Gallagher delves into the remarkable journey of how three friends, Brian Chesky, Joe Gebbia, and Nathan Blecharczyk, transformed the way people travel and find accommodations.
This hospitality book takes readers on a thrilling ride through the ups and downs of Airbnb’s evolution, from its humble beginnings as an air mattress in a living room to a global phenomenon that has changed the way people experience hospitality. The book explores the controversies and challenges that the company has faced, shedding light on the impact of their disruptive innovation on the industry and society as a whole.
Gallagher’s storytelling prowess and in-depth research make this book about hospitality a compelling read for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, innovation, and the evolving nature of the hospitality industry. The Airbnb Story is a must-read for those fascinated by the intersection of technology, travel, and 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 exploration of the power of company culture and customer service. Hsieh, the CEO of Zappos, shares his journey of building a billion-dollar business with a focus on creating a positive work environment and delivering exceptional customer experiences. The book provides valuable insights into the importance of prioritizing employee happiness and how it directly impacts the success of a business.
Through engaging storytelling and practical advice, Hsieh reveals the strategies and principles that have contributed to Zappos’ remarkable growth and success. With a focus on creating a culture of positivity, transparency, and authenticity, Hsieh’s book is a must-read for anyone in the business world, particularly those in the hospitality industry.
Delivering Happiness is not just a book about profits and business success, but also about creating meaningful connections and finding purpose in the work we do. It is a hospitality book that emphasizes the value of delivering exceptional experiences and fostering a culture of happiness and fulfillment.
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 by Joseph A. Michelli is a transformative book on hospitality that offers a glimpse into the legendary customer experience created by the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Michelli presents 5 key leadership principles that have made the Ritz-Carlton a renowned brand in the hospitality industry. Through engaging storytelling and insightful analysis, the book delves into the philosophy and practices that have set the Ritz-Carlton apart in delivering exceptional service and creating lasting impressions for its guests.
Readers will gain valuable insights into how the Ritz-Carlton fosters a culture of excellence, empowers its employees to exceed customer expectations, and consistently delivers personalized and unforgettable experiences. Michelli’s exploration of the Ritz-Carlton’s principles provides actionable strategies that can be applied to any business or organization seeking to elevate its customer service and create a truly remarkable and memorable customer experience. Whether you’re in the hospitality industry or simply seeking to improve your leadership and customer service skills, this book about hospitality is a must-read for anyone passionate about delivering extraordinary experiences.
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 takes readers on a magical journey through the world of exceptional customer service. Drawing on the expertise of one of the most successful and beloved hospitality brands in the world, this book about hospitality provides valuable insights and practical tips for delivering outstanding customer experiences.
With a focus on creating unforgettable moments for guests, the book delves into the principles and practices that have made Disney a leader in the hospitality industry. From creating a culture of service excellence to understanding the needs and desires of customers, Be Our Guest offers a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of customer service.
Through engaging storytelling and real-life examples, the book demonstrates how attention to detail, genuine care, and a commitment to exceeding expectations can elevate the guest experience. Whether you’re in the hospitality industry or simply passionate about delivering exceptional service, this hospitality book is a must-read for anyone looking to create magical experiences for their customers.
The Thank You Economy
by Gary Vaynerchuk
The Thank You Economy by Gary Vaynerchuk is a compelling book on hospitality that emphasizes the importance of building genuine, meaningful connections with customers in today’s digital age. Vaynerchuk argues that in a world where social media and technology dominate communication, businesses must prioritize empathy, gratitude, and personalization to stand out and thrive. He stresses the significance of engaging with customers on a human level, responding to their feedback, and showing appreciation for their loyalty. The book about hospitality offers actionable strategies for businesses to leverage social media and other digital platforms to create authentic relationships with their audience, ultimately leading to increased customer retention and brand loyalty. Vaynerchuk’s insights and real-life examples make this hospitality book a valuable resource for entrepreneurs, marketers, and anyone looking to foster a culture of gratitude and hospitality in their business.
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 revolutionary book on customer experience and loyalty that challenges the conventional wisdom of providing excellent 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 in the first place. By addressing the root causes of customer dissatisfaction and providing proactive solutions, businesses can reduce the need for traditional customer service interactions.
This hospitality book offers a fresh perspective on how businesses can build long-term relationships with their customers by focusing on delivering exceptional experiences and solving problems before they arise. Drawing on real-world examples and practical strategies, Price and Jaffe provide a blueprint for creating a customer-centric culture that minimizes the need for traditional customer service while maximizing customer satisfaction.
Whether you’re in the hospitality industry or any other customer-facing business, The Best Service is No Service offers valuable insights and actionable advice for transforming the way you engage with your customers.
The Experience Economy
by B. Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore
The Experience Economy by B. Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore is a groundbreaking book on the concept of creating memorable experiences for customers. In this enlightening read, the authors explore the shift from providing goods and services to staging experiences and how this evolution has transformed the business world. They argue that in today’s competitive marketplace, companies must go beyond simply offering a product or service and instead focus on creating unique and unforgettable experiences for their customers.
This thought-provoking book about hospitality delves into the idea that experiences are the new currency and that businesses should strive to create immersive and engaging interactions that leave a lasting impression. The authors provide insightful examples of companies that have successfully embraced the experience economy, offering valuable lessons for businesses in any industry. With its compelling insights and practical strategies, The Experience Economy is essential reading for anyone looking to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of customer engagement and satisfaction.
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 is a comprehensive book on hospitality that provides a detailed handbook for implementing exceptional service in any organization. Written by Robert Spector, this book offers valuable insights into Nordstrom’s legendary customer service and explains how their principles can be applied to any business. The book emphasizes the importance of creating a customer-centric culture, empowering employees, and fostering a passion for delivering outstanding service.
Spector delves into the history of Nordstrom, sharing real-life examples and anecdotes that illustrate the company’s commitment to exceeding customer expectations. The book also provides practical strategies and actionable advice for implementing Nordstrom’s customer service philosophy in your own organization, making it a valuable resource for leaders and managers in any industry.
Whether you’re in retail, hospitality, or any other service-oriented industry, The Nordstrom Way to Customer Service Excellence offers valuable lessons and best practices for creating a culture of exceptional service and customer satisfaction.
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 hospitality that delves into the rise of disruptive companies like Uber and Airbnb, and their impact on the traditional industries they’ve revolutionized. Stone takes readers on a thrilling journey through the tumultuous and transformative world of Silicon Valley, offering an insider’s perspective on the fierce competition, innovation, and cutthroat tactics that have shaped these hospitality giants.
Through in-depth interviews and meticulous research, Stone paints a vivid portrait of the ambitious founders, the intense battles with regulators and incumbents, and the profound societal changes brought about by these game-changing companies. The book offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the sharing economy, and the ways in which technology is reshaping the hospitality landscape. With its compelling narrative and thought-provoking analysis, The Upstarts is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the disruptive forces at play in the modern business world.
The Long Tail: Why the Future of Business is Selling Less of More
by Chris Anderson
The Long Tail by Chris Anderson explores the concept of selling a large variety of niche products to a small audience, rather than focusing on selling a few popular items to a larger audience. Anderson argues that the internet has transformed the way businesses operate, allowing them to tap into the “long tail” of demand for niche products. This book delves into the economics and business strategies behind this shift, using examples from industries such as music, books, and movies to illustrate the potential of catering to diverse and specialized tastes. Anderson’s insights are valuable for anyone in the business world, as they provide a new perspective on how to capitalize on the abundance of choice available in the digital age. Whether you’re a marketer, entrepreneur, or business owner, The Long Tail offers thought-provoking ideas on how to thrive in a world of abundant options and cater to a diverse customer base.
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 that provides a step-by-step approach to transforming your organization into a customer service powerhouse. This book on hospitality, written by Jeff Toister, is designed to help leaders and managers instill a customer-centric mindset in their employees, ultimately creating a culture of exceptional service. Toister offers practical strategies, real-life examples, and actionable tips to help organizations of all sizes improve their customer experience.
Readers will learn how to develop a clear service vision, hire and train employees who are passionate about delivering great service, and create systems to ensure consistent and exceptional customer interactions. The book about hospitality also covers topics such as empowering employees to make decisions, handling customer complaints effectively, and measuring the impact of a service culture on the bottom line. Whether you’re in retail, healthcare, or any other industry, this hospitality book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to create an organization that is truly obsessed with providing outstanding customer service.
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 the concept of creating memorable experiences to attract and retain customers. This influential book about hospitality argues that in today’s competitive marketplace, businesses must shift their focus from simply offering goods and services to providing unique and immersive experiences that engage and captivate customers.
Pine and Gilmore present a compelling case for businesses to understand the value of staging experiences and creating a lasting impact on customers. They provide practical strategies and examples to illustrate how companies can transform their offerings into memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression. The authors highlight the importance of understanding customer preferences and emotions to design experiences that resonate with their target audience.
Overall, The Experience Economy is a must-read for anyone in the hospitality industry or any business looking to differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace. This book on hospitality is a valuable guide for understanding and leveraging the power of experiences to drive customer loyalty and financial success.
Final Thoughts on Best Hospitality Books
In conclusion, these 20 best books about Hospitality offer a wealth of knowledge and insights for anyone in the hospitality industry or those interested in learning more about the field. Whether you’re a hotel manager, restaurant owner, or simply passionate about providing excellent customer service, these books cover a wide range of topics and are sure to inspire and educate. From leadership and management to customer experience and industry trends, these books are essential reads for anyone looking to excel in the world of hospitality.
Which book about Hospitality is best?
The best book on Hospitality can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Airbnb Story by Leigh Gallagher,
- Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business by Danny Meyer,
- The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact by Chip Heath and Dan Heath.
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:
- The Airbnb Story by Leigh Gallagher,
- Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business by Danny Meyer,
- The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact by Chip Heath and Dan Heath,
- The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company by Joseph Michelli,
- The Heart of Hospitality: Great Hotel and Restaurant Leaders Share Their Secrets by Micah Solomon,
- The Hotel: A Week in the Life of the Plaza by Sonny Kleinfield,
- The Hotel on Place Vendome: Life, Death, and Betrayal at the Hotel Ritz in Paris by Tilar J. Mazzeo,
- The Power of Positive Leadership: How and Why Positive Leaders Transform Teams and Organizations and Change the World by Jon Gordon,
- The Airbnb Story: How Three Ordinary Guys Disrupted an Industry, Made Billions…and Created Plenty of Controversy by Leigh Gallagher,
- Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh
These books offer a range of perspectives on Hospitality, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books about Hospitality?
The best books about Hospitality are:
- The Airbnb Story by Leigh Gallagher,
- Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business by Danny Meyer,
- The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company by Joseph A. Michelli,
- Be Our Guest: Perfecting the Art of Customer Service by Disney Institute,
- The Power of Positive Leadership: How and Why Positive Leaders Transform Teams and Organizations and Change the World by Jon Gordon,
- The Hotel: A Week in the Life of the Plaza by Sonny Kleinfield.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about 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 five titles that are often celebrated include
- The Airbnb Story by Leigh Gallagher,
- Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business by Danny Meyer,
- The Heart of Hospitality: Great Hotel and Restaurant Leaders Share Their Secrets by Micah Solomon,
- The Power of Positive Leadership: How and Why Positive Leaders Transform Teams and Organizations and Change the World by Jon Gordon,
- and The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company by Joseph A. Michelli.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Hospitality and continues to be influential today.