Lynn Van Der Wagen's Professional Hospitality: Core Competencies is an introduction to the world's fastest growing industry. It is the ideal text for introductory vocational education courses based on the Hospitality Industry National Competency Standards as detailed in the ANTA/TTA Hospitality Training Package. The book is divided into five sections:

THE INDUSTRY, which covers the different sectors of the hospitality industry and their relationships, as well as ideas and strategies for research and the different types of legislation relevant to the industry. It relates to competency unit: Develop and Update Hospitality Industry Knowledge (THHHCO01A).
THE PEOPLE emphasizes the necessity for effective planning, collaborative teamwork and outstanding communication at all levels, and also covers the topics of cultural and crosscultural communication. Work with Colleagues and Customers(THHCOR01A) and Work in a Socially Diverse Environment (THHCOR02A) are the two relevant competency units.
THE SERVICE will enable the teader to effectively promote products and services to customers. This section emphasizes the importance of customer feedback in achieving quality service. The relevant competency units are Promote Products and Services to Customers (THHGCS02A) and Communicate on the Telephone (THHGGA01A).
THE SYSTEMS deals with the systems that support service, including health, safety and security, and workplace hygiene. It also includes a useful chapter on maintaining 'green' premises. This section relates to competency units: Follow Health, Safety and Security Procedures(THHCOR03A), Follow Workplace Hygiene Procedures (THHGHS01A), and Clean and Maintain Premises (THHBKA04A).
YOUR CAREER provides invaluable advice on career planning and preparing for job interviews.

Key features of this book include a strong focus on quality service, working with colleagues and customers in diverse social and cultural environments, and using feedback for improving customer satisfaction.

Part 1 The Industry
Part 2 The People
Part 3 The Service
Part 4 The Systems
Part 5 Your Career