In my opinion, it's crucial not to try to simply transplant what works in your country into the Indonesian hospitality scene. The key is to adapt best practices to the local culture and mentality. Understanding from the inside what motivates and brings people to work, and what they expect, is essential, and believe me it’s not always money.

The Western approach of being competitive and always on the run may not be effective here, as local people, especially here in Bali, often value their personal life, religious devotion, and a more relaxed lifestyle. This doesn’t imply a lack of productivity; rather, it's about discovering the most effective way to inspire and engage your team.

Embracing Cultural Diversity
In Bali and Indonesia, where cultural diversity is rich, it's crucial to create an inclusive team environment. Training in cultural sensitivity is key to cater to both local and international guests.

Effective Recruitment
Recruitment strategies should balance local expertise with a broader understanding of global hospitality trends, emphasising the value of Balinese and Indonesian cultural nuances in delivering exceptional service.

Comprehensive Onboarding and Training Programs
To ensure effective team integration comprehensive onboarding and training programs are essential. These programs should address the common challenge where 8 out of 10 candidates feel excluded due to inadequate onboarding. By enhancing natural hospitality traits and focusing on customer service excellence and interpersonal skills, training can align with both local and international standards, ensuring new team members feel valued and part of the team from the beginning.

Employee Engagement and Healthy Communication
Creating a work culture where every team member has a voice and room to grow is essential. Encourage open and healthy communication where staff feel comfortable sharing ideas and feedback.

Performance Management and Career Growth
Offer clear career progression paths and regular performance evaluations. This fosters a culture of continuous improvement and personal development, vital in the dynamic Indonesian hospitality sector.

Adapting to Local Lifestyles
Understanding and integrating the Balinese and Indonesian way of life is crucial for building a high-performing hospitality team. This goes beyond mere respect for local customs; it involves actively fostering a community spirit that is deeply rooted in the region’s values and traditions. Emphasising communal approaches to business, team activities that celebrate local festivals, and incorporating traditional Balinese and Indonesian practices into the workplace can significantly enhance team bonding and dynamics. By creating a work environment that mirrors the communal and harmonious ethos of Bali and Indonesia, businesses can nurture a strong, cohesive team that excels in delivering authentic hospitality experiences.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility
In Bali, where environmental and social responsibility are becoming increasingly important, educating and engaging the team in sustainable practices not only benefits the environment but also instils a sense of pride and purpose. This could involve initiatives like community clean-ups, reducing plastic use, or supporting local artisans. Find something that can bond your team together and help to build the values you all would like to stand for together.

Clear Rules
Establish clear, understandable rules and provide a comprehensive onboarding process. This ensures that new team members are well-acquainted with the hotel's standards and expectations from the start.