Chapter 1 Th e World of Hospitality 15
Activities
Professional associations work in fi ve areas:
professional development, standards and ethics, net-
working, public relations, and government relations.
Professional Development
Professional development is the process of con-
tinuing your education in your profession after
you leave school. It is also called continuing edu-
cation. Most professional organizations provide
professional development opportunities, such as
educational workshops and web-based seminars
on the latest developments. This education often
takes place at the organization’s annual meeting.
These are major gatherings at which the profes-
sion showcases the latest trends in technology,
supplies, and products. Many professional organi-
zations publish journals, newsletters, and books.
For example, the AH&LA publishes Lodging Mag-
azine. These publications also help professionals
keep up-to-date on changes in their profession.
Standards and Ethics
Professional organizations also develop stan-
dards for the practice of their profession. The NRA
has developed industry standards for food safety
and sanitation. Many organizations also have cer-
tifi cate programs. Members can go through an
educational program and take a qualifying exam.
If they pass the exam, they receive a certifi cate that
confi rms their qualifi cations to handle specifi c
jobs. Professional organizations often develop a
code of ethics, which is a statement of proper, pro-
fessional behavior for members of the profession.
Networking
Networking is the process of meeting people in
your profession. People working in the same pro-
fession often share similar interests. Professional
organizations often have social gatherings at their
meetings that allow attendees to network, 1-14.
Networking provides the opportunity to meet oth-
ers to problem solve, share new ideas, and learn
Hospitality Ethics
Learning About Ethics
Ethics is a discipline consisting of principles of conduct that
govern the behavior of an individual or group. These principles
deal with right and wrong behavior and with moral duty and legal
obligation.
In the fi eld of hospitality and all areas of life, you will face ethical
challenges from time to time. How can you tell if the decisions you make conform to
principles of good behavior? Here are some questions to ask yourself before you take
action.
On the Job
• Does my plan follow employee rules and my employer’s code of ethics and/or code
of professional conduct?
• Have I discussed my plans with my supervisor in cases of unusual or special
situations?
On and Off the Job
• Is my plan of action honest, fair, respectful of others, and legal?