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

 
2007 Annual International CHRIE Conference & Exposition 
535
FACTORS AFFECTING WOMEN’S CAREER ADVANCEMENT IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY: 
PERCEPTIONS OF STUDENTS, EDUCATORS, AND INDUSTRY RECRUITERS 
 
Yan (Grace) Zhong 
Virginia State University 
Petersburg, VA, U.S. 
Sue Couch 
Virginia State University 
Petersburg, VA, U.S. 
and 
Shane C. Blum 
Texas Tech University 
Lubbock, TX, U.S. 
ABSTRACT 
Because of the increased number of women employed in the hospitality industry, their underrepresentation 
in top management positions is an important concern. The purposes of the study were to examine hospitality 
students’, educators’ and industry recruiters’ perceptions of factors that facilitate and constrain women’s career 
advancement and determine if there were significant differences in the respondents’ views. Data were collected 
through an online survey from a convenience sample of 226 hospitality students, educators and industry recruiters. 
The findings revealed significant gender and group differences, suggesting that hospitality education programs could 
assist in creating a more supportive industry environment for women.
Key Words:
Women in hospitality industry, hospitality industry.