Celebrating the written word
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Studies have shown that people read more when traveling than at home. |
Wassermann thinks the act of reading has changed in a major way in the hotel industry and a lot of people have moved on from print to pixel, as digital screens proliferate.
"As part of my daily routine, I read several international newspapers online and I benefit greatly from articles on the hospitality sector and leadership recommended by websites like LinkedIn.
"But I still love the distinct smell of old books," he says. "The scent evokes happy memories of the time I last read that particular book."
He often encourages his staff to read, and Wassermann thinks reading is a long-term benefit that will reward them in the future when it comes to career development.
The hotel chain has partnered with Harvard Business School, and now the "IHG Leadership Academy" is available to all its employees at a click of a button.
"The great thing about this program is that our employees now have access to more relevant articles and case studies whenever it suits them. This is a huge opportunity for anyone who craves additional education support," Wassermann says.
We cannot deny that the reading platform will change in the future, as the digital world continues its invasion into our physical world. But the necessity of reading will still remain relevant for many years to come.
