Microsoft Word 2007 ichrie conference Proceedings Final-Final 06-06-07. doc

 
2007 Annual International CHRIE Conference & Exposition 
329
INVESTIGATING CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS IN THE RISE TO THE HOTEL GENERAL 
MANAGER POSITION IN TAIWAN 
 
Kelly Virginia Phelan 
Purdue University 
West Lafayette, IN, USA 
Sheryl Kline 
University of South Carolina 
Beaufort, SC, USA 
and 
Jeou-Shyan Horng 
National Taiwan Normal University 
Taipei, Taiwan 
ABSTRACT 
Research on hotel general managers has examined career paths and hospitality positions held prior to 
becoming a general manager (GM), however there is limited research regarding other factors. In this study GMs 
from Five-Star and Five-Diamond properties in Taiwan were surveyed. This study seeks to investigate other 
potential factors which influence the attainment of the GM position. This research articulates the impact of 
education, training, and past work experience upon the success of attaining a GM position. Additionally, this paper 
considers career development, personality, and management style theories within the hospitality industry as a factor 
in promotion to General Manager.