The hearing impaired get a break at Bangkok hotel
Novotel gives shortlisted candidates professional training, full-time jobs
At the end of last year, only 17,124 people with disabilities were hired by private businesses, according to the Social Development and Humanity Security Ministry.
That was very few of the 1.33 million people with disabilities nationwide, or 1.9 per cent of the total population. About 630,000 or 47.7 per cent of the total are in the working age group (15-60).
Two more were recently recruited by Novotel Bangkok in Siam Square, from seven shortlisted hearing-impaired candidates. They were selected by the hotel’s senior management for full-time positions; they will now commence their new hospitality career in the housekeeping and food and beverage departments.
Meanwhile, three other candidates have accepted full-time employment offers in sister Accor hotels.
“I believe that work builds self-esteem, regardless of background and physical ability,” said David Baldwin, general manager of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square.
“In the case of our candidates in particular, work can bring challenges and developmental assistance, and provide important social interaction.
“We are all glad to share our knowledge and experience so that they will be skilful and confident in the hotel industry and open up opportunities for their future careers.”
From the shortlisted hearing-impaired candidates, the hotel selected the first group to participate in “Realising the Potential”, an equal-opportunity training campaign for the physically challenged.
Each underwent a professional on-the-job training programme in October, to learn new skills and build the confidence needed to succeed in the workplace.
Kick-starting careers
The goal is to recruit participants who upon completion of the programme demonstrate the aptitude, enthusiasm and commitment needed to kick-start their careers.
An orientation programme provided an overall perception of the hospitality job, introduced the responsibilities of each department and detailed job responsibilities.
Throughout the training programme a member of the hotel staff was assigned to offer guidance, coaching, share work experience and make the participants comfortable in their new work environment.
A professional sign-language interpreter was on hand throughout this process.
“Of course, operational challenges are expected during this initial training period, but with an open mind we will find a way to give the participants of this programme a chance to succeed.
“This year will serve as a pilot programme, and we aim to see it become an annual training programme,” Baldwin said.
