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  • Transforming the Hospitality Industry with Mindfulness
    AI Recruitment:
    by Donald Kiley
    29/06/2025
    How AI is Reshaping Hospitality Hiring and the Talent We Might Be Missing Introduction AI recruitment is changing the dynamic world of hospitality, where personalized service and human connection are… Read more: AI Recruitment:
  • Would I Be Happy With How I Was Treated?
    Would I Be Happy With How I Was Treated?
    by Donald Kiley
    03/05/2025
    How would you feel if you were treated the way you just treated that guest? If the answer isn’t great, then it’s time to reassess.
  • Social Media Marketing Strategies for Hotels in 2025
    Social Media Marketing Strategies for Hotels in 2025
    by Donald Kiley
    23/02/2025
    In 2025, South African travellers are more digitally savvy than ever. With smartphones in hand, guests expect a seamless online experience, from discovering a hotel on Instagram to making a booking directly through a social platform. Social media is no longer just a place to share pretty pictures—it’s where travel decisions are made.
  • Understanding Hotel Pricing Strategies
    Understanding Hotel Pricing Strategies
    by Donald Kiley
    10/10/2024
    High Markup & Low Yield vs. Low Markup & High Yield Understanding hotel rates is crucial to running a successful operation. Pricing strategy plays a vital role in this process.… Read more: Understanding Hotel Pricing Strategies
  • South African Hospitality Reimagined
    Short-Term Rentals and the Traditional Hotel Industry
    by Donald Kiley
    20/06/2024
    Short-term rentals are on the rise, particular platforms like Airbnb have significantly influenced the hospitality industry worldwide, including in South Africa. This trend has brought about various challenges and opportunities for traditional hotels.
  • War in the Boardroom
    War in the Boardroom
    by Donald Kiley
    22/05/2024
    Battle Tactics for Business War is not usually where you’d find inspiration, or is it? I was watching Warographics by Simon Whistler on YouTube and found myself wondering, “How can… Read more: War in the Boardroom
  • How AI is Transforming the South African Hospitality Industry
    How AI is Positively Transforming the South African Hospitality Industry
    by Donald Kiley
    15/05/2024
    Are we ready for change? It is interesting to see that in a world of technology, how many people do not know how to use basic computer programs such as… Read more: How AI is Positively Transforming the South African Hospitality Industry
  • Transforming the Hospitality Industry with Mindfulness
    Positive Mindfulness & Hospitality
    by Donald Kiley
    24/03/2024
    A New Approach to Employee Well-being and Guest Satisfaction The hospitality industry, known for its fast pace and high-pressure environments, demands a lot from its workforce. From chefs in steamy… Read more: Positive Mindfulness & Hospitality
  • Would I Be Happy With How I Was Treated?
    Hospitality Metrics
    by Donald Kiley
    25/02/2024
    A Greater Understanding of ADR and RevPAR Hospitality metrics, where understanding the numbers behind your operations can lead to significant improvements in performance and profitability.   Today, WebChef dives into two… Read more: Hospitality Metrics
  • Experiential Travel
    What Is Experiential Travel in South Africa
    by Donald Kiley
    18/02/2024
    A Sustainable Tourism Revolution What is Experiential Travel and how does it work in the South African Hospitality Industry where in every traveler’s heart, lies a desire for experiences that… Read more: What Is Experiential Travel in South Africa
  • The Crucial Role of Training in Hospitality
    The Crucial Role of Training in Hospitality
    by Donald Kiley
    13/02/2024
     A Path to Excellence and the Perils of Neglect The crucial role of training in the hospitality industry is paramount for any individual, and the journey of every professional begins… Read more: The Crucial Role of Training in Hospitality
  • South African Hospitality Reimagined
    South African Hospitality Reimagined
    by Donald Kiley
    27/01/2024
    The Secret of Storytelling South African hospitality is unique, where every corner tells it’s own story. By using these and other characteristics of your establishments and those around you in… Read more: South African Hospitality Reimagined
  • Transforming the Hospitality Industry with Mindfulness
    A Senior Manager’s Insights in Workplace Dynamics
    by Donald Kiley
    28/12/2023
    Leadership Accountability Ever found yourself in the midst of a management dilemma, wondering where the line of responsibility lies? Whether you’re a seasoned leader or a rising star in the… Read more: A Senior Manager’s Insights in Workplace Dynamics
  • Social Media Marketing Strategies for Hotels in 2025
    Positively Embracing Technology & Digitalization
    by Donald Kiley
    17/12/2023
    Upskilling and Reskilling Embracing technology and digitalization have become integral components of successful hospitality management. South African hospitality managers face the challenge of staying abreast of technological advancements and leveraging… Read more: Positively Embracing Technology & Digitalization
  • Effective communication
    Effective Communication
    by Donald Kiley
    10/12/2023
    Key Challenges in South African Hospitality Communication Effective communication is the lifeblood of any successful organization, and in the South African hospitality industry, where seamless collaboration between teams is essential,… Read more: Effective Communication
  • Understanding Hotel Pricing Strategies
    Breaking Barriers
    by Donald Kiley
    06/12/2023
    Empowering Transformation in South African Hospitality Breaking barriers in the South African hospitality industry by fostering a workplace that embraces diversity and inclusion is not just a moral imperative but… Read more: Breaking Barriers
  • Attracting Talent, Ensuring Success
    Attracting Talent, Ensuring Success
    by Donald Kiley
    04/12/2023
    The Critical Link Between Recruitment and Managerial Performance Attracting talent and ensuring the success of any hospitality establishment in South Africa is intricately tied to the calibre of its workforce.… Read more: Attracting Talent, Ensuring Success
  • Understanding Hotel Pricing Strategies
    Dynamic Company Culture
    by Donald Kiley
    03/12/2023
    Shaping the South African Hospitality Industry Company culture serves as the heartbeat of any organization, defining its values, norms, and overall work environment. In this blog, WebChef explores the far-reaching… Read more: Dynamic Company Culture
  • Effective team productivity tracking
    Effective team productivity tracking
    by Donald Kiley
    29/11/2023
    Mastering the Art of Tracking Team Productivity in South African Hospitality Management Effective team productivity tracking is a cornerstone of successful hospitality management in South Africa. However, the modern workplace,… Read more: Effective team productivity tracking
  • Short-Term Rentals and the Traditional Hotel Industry
    Balancing Employee Wellbeing
    by Donald Kiley
    28/11/2023
    A Critical Imperative for South African Hospitality Managers Balancing employee wellbeing In the fast-paced and demanding landscape of the South African hospitality industry is a unique challenge managers face. The… Read more: Balancing Employee Wellbeing
  • Navigating Uncertainty
    Positively Navigating Uncertainty
    by Donald Kiley
    21/11/2023
    A Manager’s Dilemma Navigating Uncertainty in the South African hospitality industry is a continuous challenge for managers and can be sole destroying to say the least. In this blog, WebChef… Read more: Positively Navigating Uncertainty
  • Overcoming Management Challenges in South Africa
    Overcoming Management Challenges in South Africa
    by Donald Kiley
    16/11/2023
    Transforming Hospitality Overcoming Management Challenges in South Africa is always a hot topic, no matter what business sector you may be in. Today, WebChef explores the crucial matter of rectifying… Read more: Overcoming Management Challenges in South Africa
  • Collaboration in South African
    Positive Collaboration in South African
    by Donald Kiley
    16/11/2023
    Navigating Management Styles within Hospitality, Government, and Education Collaboration of hospitality, government, and education sectors in South Africa cannot be overstated and how these are managed has a significant effect… Read more: Positive Collaboration in South African
  • Legal Complexities
    Legal Complexities
    by Donald Kiley
    12/11/2023
    Insights into South African Hospitality Compliance Legal complexities in South Africa governing the hospitality industry is multifaceted. It spans various regulations covering labour laws, safety mandates, industry-specific protocols, and consumer… Read more: Legal Complexities
  • Hospitality Consulting and Asset Management
    The Vibrant Heartbeat of the Hospitality Industry
    by Donald Kiley
    12/11/2023
    Strategies for Attraction and Retention of Staff The heartbeat of the hospitality industry lies in its people, but in South Africa, finding and keeping skilled talent has become a pressing… Read more: The Vibrant Heartbeat of the Hospitality Industry
  • Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity in Hospitality
    Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity in Hospitality
    by Donald Kiley
    12/11/2023
    Harmony Amid Diversity Embracing the diverse tapestry of South Africa’s cultural landscape presents both a mosaic of diversity and a set of challenges within the hospitality industry. Embracing this diversity… Read more: Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity in Hospitality
  • WebChef
    Self-Micromanagement
    by Donald Kiley
    10/11/2023
    Unveiling the Pitfalls of Over-Control in the Hospitality Industry In the realm of the hospitality industry, where attention to detail and precision are pivotal, the art of management is a… Read more: Self-Micromanagement
  • Overcoming Management Challenges in South Africa
    Micromanagement
    by Donald Kiley
    09/11/2023
    A Toxic Management Style That Stifles Business Success Micromanagement is a management style characterized by excessive control and supervision of employees. Micromanagers closely monitor every aspect of their employees’ work,… Read more: Micromanagement
  • WebChef
    The Subscription Traveller
    by Donald Kiley
    04/11/2023
    An Emerging Platform Hospitality owners are constantly seeking new ventures and business models to adapt to the ever-changing industry. Given the current financial climate, both owners and guests are scrutinizing… Read more: The Subscription Traveller
  • Experiential Travel
    Financial Aspects of Hospitality Asset Management
    by Donald Kiley
    04/11/2023
    A Guide for Beginners In the realm of hospitality asset management, understanding the nuances of financial aspects is crucial for success. For newcomers in the industry, navigating the complexities of… Read more: Financial Aspects of Hospitality Asset Management
  • Work
    Hospitality Trends 2024
    by Donald Kiley
    04/11/2023
    Get Ready for the Unexpected As 2023 nears its end, WebChef explores the hospitality trends that travellers are expected to seek in 2024. Some of these trends may be familiar,… Read more: Hospitality Trends 2024
  • How AI is Transforming the South African Hospitality Industry
    Embracing the South African Gen Z
    by Donald Kiley
    24/10/2023
    Embracing Gen Z Travelers for a Thriving Tourism Industry South Africa, a land of diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich heritage, has long been a magnet for travelers seeking unforgettable… Read more: Embracing the South African Gen Z
  • WebChef
    Hospitality’s New Horizon
    by Donald Kiley
    23/10/2023
    Where Heritage Meets Holograms The hospitality industry has a new horizon and the Gen Z’s are it. This generation, often labeled as the “digital natives,” seeks the best of all… Read more: Hospitality’s New Horizon
  • WebChef
    Adapting for Tomorrow’s Guests
    by Donald Kiley
    22/10/2023
    Hospitality and Gen Z Adapting for tomorrows guest is always on the mind of a hotelier, restaurateur or business owner and with having a teenage daughter who is constantly on… Read more: Adapting for Tomorrow’s Guests
  • South African Hospitality Reimagined
    The Art of Hospitality Expense Management
    by Donald Kiley
    20/10/2023
    A Key to Success in the Hospitality Industry In the fast-paced world of hospitality, managing expenses effectively is crucial for success. Hospitality expense management plays a pivotal role in guiding… Read more: The Art of Hospitality Expense Management
  • WebChef
    Navigating Unique Challenges
    by Donald Kiley
    20/10/2023
    Hospitality Asset Management In the dynamic world of hospitality, managing different types of assets comes with its own set of challenges. Whether you are overseeing hotels, resorts, lodges, restaurants, cafes,… Read more: Navigating Unique Challenges
  • WebChef
    5 Proven Ways Hospitality Consultants Transform Businesses
    by Donald Kiley
    20/10/2023
    WebChef’s Profit Strategies In the competitive landscape of the hospitality industry, businesses face numerous challenges in their pursuit of success. For owners seeking valuable insights and expert guidance, hospitality consultants… Read more: 5 Proven Ways Hospitality Consultants Transform Businesses
  • Hospitality Metrics
    Hospitality Consulting and Asset Management
    by Donald Kiley
    19/10/2023
    Protecting Your Investment Hospitality asset management is the process of overseeing and managing the physical and intellectual assets of a hospitality property to maximize its value and profitability. This includes… Read more: Hospitality Consulting and Asset Management
  • WebChef
    Hospitality Management Trends
    by Donald Kiley
    18/10/2023
    A Deep Dive Hospitality management is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging all the time. By staying ahead of the curve and adopting the latest trends, hospitality businesses can attract… Read more: Hospitality Management Trends
  • WebChef
    Hospitality Consultants and Crisis Management
    by Donald Kiley
    18/10/2023
    Preparing for the Unexpected Hospitality consultants give advice for a variety of business challenges when it comes to crises, from natural disasters to pandemics and security breaches. These unforeseen events… Read more: Hospitality Consultants and Crisis Management
  • Embracing Failure
    Consulting in Established Hospitality Businesses
    by Donald Kiley
    15/10/2023
    The Complex Terrain of Consulting Established Hospitality Businesses In the dynamic world of hospitality, the role of a consultant is pivotal in reshaping and optimizing businesses for success. However, when… Read more: Consulting in Established Hospitality Businesses
  • WebChef
    Embracing Failure
    by Donald Kiley
    11/10/2023
    The Unlikely Pathway to Success Failure, often seen as a bitter pill to swallow, is an indispensable part of the journey to success. In a world where achievements are celebrated… Read more: Embracing Failure
  • WebChef
    Unlearning to Learn
    by Donald Kiley
    10/10/2023
    Embracing the Path of Intellectual Renewal In the ever-evolving landscape of knowledge and information, the ability to learn new things has become a crucial skill. However, in the pursuit of… Read more: Unlearning to Learn
  • WebChef Thinking man
    There Is No Such Thing as a Stupid Idea
    by Donald Kiley
    10/10/2023
    Embracing the Power of Ideas “There is no such thing as a stupid idea,” that is what my father always told me when I was growing up, and he was… Read more: There Is No Such Thing as a Stupid Idea
  • Work
    Work Smart, Not Hard
    by Donald Kiley
    09/10/2023
    The Surprising Virtue of Laziness Work smart, not hard is what I tell people in the hustle and bustle of the modern work environment where laziness is often viewed as… Read more: Work Smart, Not Hard
  • WebChef Jackson
    Hotel Revenue Management
    by Donald Kiley
    04/10/2023
    A Crucial Role for the Revenue Manager Hotel revenue management is the process of maximizing revenue by forecasting demand, setting prices, and allocating inventory in a competitive marketplace. It is… Read more: Hotel Revenue Management
  • WebChef
    Direct Bookings vs. OTAs
    by Donald Kiley
    04/10/2023
    Maximizing Profit and Customer Satisfaction In the bustling world of hospitality, the battle between direct bookings and Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) has been raging on for years. For hotel owners… Read more: Direct Bookings vs. OTAs
  • WebChef
    One Ply vs. Two Ply
    by Donald Kiley
    04/10/2023
    Toilet Paper in the Hospitality Industry Toilet paper, One Ply or Two Ply. It is probably one of the most quoted items in the hospitality industry and every decision, no… Read more: One Ply vs. Two Ply
  • Social Media Marketing Strategies for Hotels in 2025
    The Crucial Role of Hospitality Auditing
    by Donald Kiley
    01/10/2023
    Leverage for Business Success The crucial role of hospitality auditing in the dynamic and competitive landscape of the hospitality industry, ensuring operational efficiency, financial accuracy, and regulatory compliance are paramount.… Read more: The Crucial Role of Hospitality Auditing
  • The Subscription Traveller
    Last Minute .com
    by Donald Kiley
    29/09/2023
    The Deal Seeker Last minute bookings have become the trend within the country’s hospitality industry, deal seekers. These savvy travelers are constantly on the lookout for discounts, special offers, and… Read more: Last Minute .com
  • WebChef
    Unleashing Employee Potential
    by Donald Kiley
    27/09/2023
    The Cost of Overlooking Talent Unleashing employee potential is crucial in the dynamic world of business where the pursuit of talent is relentless. Companies invest significant resources in recruiting, training,… Read more: Unleashing Employee Potential
  • Effective team productivity tracking
    Vegan Wine
    by Donald Kiley
    26/09/2023
    Would you like egg with that? I recently had a conversation with the F&B manager of Champagne Sports Resort, and given Glynn’s extensive experience in the wine trade for over… Read more: Vegan Wine
  • Legal Complexities
    A New Strategy
    by Donald Kiley
    25/09/2023
    ESG and the Shared Economy Business Model In recent years, the concept of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) has gained significant traction in various industries worldwide. Within the realm of… Read more: A New Strategy
  • The Subscription Traveller
    Embracing Sustainability and Responsibility
    by Donald Kiley
    21/09/2023
    A Shared Economy Perspective The hospitality sector in South Africa has increasingly adopted sustainability and responsibility as integral parts of its business model. This shift not only aligns with global… Read more: Embracing Sustainability and Responsibility
  • WebChef South Africa
    Collaboration
    by Donald Kiley
    20/09/2023
    A Double-Edge Sword Collaboration between the hospitality industry and government can be a double-edged sword, especially in a country like South Africa. While it holds the potential to drive economic… Read more: Collaboration
  • Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity in Hospitality
    Collaboration within the Shared Economy
    by Donald Kiley
    19/09/2023
    A No Brainer When considering collaboration, it’s common to envision two parties coming together to discuss mutually beneficial outcomes, often assuming that’s the extent of it. In the broader context,… Read more: Collaboration within the Shared Economy
  • Hospitality Consulting and Asset Management
    A Game Changer for Small and Large Businesses
    by Donald Kiley
    19/09/2023
    Different thinking South Africa, with its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and vibrant cities, has long been a hub for tourism and hospitality. This industry plays a significant role in the… Read more: A Game Changer for Small and Large Businesses
  • WebChef Sleeping
    Are Hoteliers Asleep?
    by Donald Kiley
    17/09/2023
    The Shared Economy’s Impact on the Hospitality Industry in South Africa With the hospitality industry in South Africa witnessing significant changes over the past years with technological advancements and evolving… Read more: Are Hoteliers Asleep?
  • WebChef Jackson
    Benefits for Hotel Owners and Their Fur Baby Guests
    by Donald Kiley
    16/09/2023
    Pet-Friendly Accommodation in South Africa South Africa, known for its breath-taking landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse wildlife, is a paradise for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation alike. But what about… Read more: Benefits for Hotel Owners and Their Fur Baby Guests
  • The Crucial Role of Training in Hospitality
    The Impact of Technology on the Hospitality Industry in South Africa
    by Donald Kiley
    14/09/2023
    Unveiling the Unseen In an era characterized by the constant evolution of technology, the hospitality industry in South Africa has not remained untouched. From the moment guests set foot in… Read more: The Impact of Technology on the Hospitality Industry in South Africa
  • AI Recruitment: How AI is Reshaping Hospitality Hiring and the Talent We Might Be Missing
    Labour Shortages in South Africa’s Hospitality Industry
    by Donald Kiley
    13/09/2023
    The Looming Crisis Labour shortages in South Africa’s hospitality industry, the idea for this blog, was inspired by the relaunch of WebChef and my subsequent post on LinkedIn. There, I… Read more: Labour Shortages in South Africa’s Hospitality Industry
  • WebChef Clocks
    The Importance of Finishing Work Within Working Hours
    by Donald Kiley
    12/09/2023
    A Productivity Perspective In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, the pressure to perform efficiently at the workplace is ever-present. Many employees find themselves working long hours, sometimes stretching late into… Read more: The Importance of Finishing Work Within Working Hours
  • WebChef
    Hospitality and Psychology
    by Donald Kiley
    11/09/2023
    Is there a Shrink in the House? Hospitality and psychology work hand in hand when we step into a restaurant or hotel, we often underestimate the subtle yet powerful influence… Read more: Hospitality and Psychology
  • The Subscription Traveller
    Why Pricing Matters for Hotel Profitability
    by Donald Kiley
    10/09/2023
    The Power of More Than a Name I always fall into this hole of Market Share VS Brand Marketing when discussing low occupancies with fellow hoteliers. I get it, I… Read more: Why Pricing Matters for Hotel Profitability
  • Unlearning to Learn
    The Power of Hospitality Consulting
    by Donald Kiley
    09/09/2023
    Boosting Hotel Occupancy Rates in South Africa During Financial Downturns The South African hospitality industry has faced its fair share of challenges, from economic fluctuations to global health crises. In… Read more: The Power of Hospitality Consulting
  • Transforming the Hospitality Industry with Mindfulness
    Enhancing Hotel Customer Service in South Africa
    by Donald Kiley
    07/09/2023
    A Comprehensive Guide for Consulting Companies Customer service is the lifeblood of any successful hotel. In a diverse and dynamic market like South Africa, where guests come with varying expectations… Read more: Enhancing Hotel Customer Service in South Africa
  • WebChef Architect
    Restaurant Design
    by Donald Kiley
    06/09/2023
    From Concept to Completion Restaurant design is extremely crucial in the highly competitive world of the restaurant industry, where first impressions count and customer experience is paramount, the role of… Read more: Restaurant Design
  • Hotel Revenue Management
    The Role of a Hospitality Business Design Analyst
    by Donald Kiley
    06/09/2023
    Boosting Profits and Enhancing Guest Experiences In the fast-paced world of hospitality, success hinges on more than just offering a comfortable bed and a good meal. Today’s travelers expect unique… Read more: The Role of a Hospitality Business Design Analyst
  • Auguste Escoffier: The Culinary Maestro with a Dash of Quirk
    by Donald Kiley
    05/09/2023
    Auguste Escoffier, a name synonymous with culinary excellence, gastronomic innovation, and a touch of eccentricity. Often hailed as the “King of Chefs and Chef of Kings,” Escoffier’s culinary journey was… Read more: Auguste Escoffier: The Culinary Maestro with a Dash of Quirk
  • Vintage Hotel
    The Evolution of Hotels and Restaurants
    by Donald Kiley
    05/09/2023
    A Grand Journey Through Time: The Evolution of Hotels and Restaurants Imagine embarking on a time machine that takes you on a captivating journey through history, offering glimpses into the… Read more: The Evolution of Hotels and Restaurants
  • The Crucial Role of Hospitality Training in South Africa
    Post Covid Restaurant Staff
    by Donald Kiley
    04/09/2023
    Post-COVID Restaurant Staff – Are they coping? The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the global hospitality industry, and South Africa was no exception. Restaurants faced unprecedented challenges, including… Read more: Post Covid Restaurant Staff
  • WebChef
    The Unsung Heroes of Hospitality
    by Donald Kiley
    29/08/2023
    Sectors You Didn’t Know Were in the Game When we think of the hospitality sector we forget about the unsung Hero’s that we don’t usually attribute to working in the… Read more: The Unsung Heroes of Hospitality
  • War in the Boardroom
    The Crucial Role of Hospitality Training in South Africa
    by Donald Kiley
    29/08/2023
    The Crucial Role of Training in South Africa’s Hospitality Industry In a country as diverse and dynamic as South Africa, the hospitality industry plays a pivotal role in driving economic… Read more: The Crucial Role of Hospitality Training in South Africa
  • Would I Be Happy With How I Was Treated?
    Starting a Thriving Restaurant
    by Donald Kiley
    29/08/2023
    Vital points to consider Starting a thriving restaurant or eatery involves a mix of creativity, strategic planning, and dedication. In this blog, WebChef delves into the ins and outs of… Read more: Starting a Thriving Restaurant

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