Hospitality among top career choices for youngsters

A study conducted by Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), shows that there has been a radical change in the preferences of today's youngsters. No more they are targeting at BPO jobs but are instead looking forward to hospitality, aviation and retail, which are newer and promising areas. According to the study, the change is due to lack of job security and erratic work conditions in BPOs and other sectors. The study cites, 'By now, confronting a high attrition rate of 25 to 30 per cent together with the projection of facing a 30 to 40 per cent staff shortage in the next two years, BPOs seem set for tough time as urban youth 'rove' to newer and promising areas such as aviation, hospitality and retail'. Venugopal N Dhoot, president of ASSOCHAM, says, "A number of youngsters after passing class twelfth who were earlier seeking opportunities for jobs in BPOs and call centres, are now interested in joining other attractive areas of hospitality, retail, aviation, animation, journalism, designing and entertainment."The study titled 'Urban youths new emerging choices for career making,' cites hospitality, aviation and retail sectors are experiencing shortage of up to 25 to 30 per cent of skilled personnel. Venugopal adds, "With this change in preference, there is likely to be some make up for the scarcity." He explains that the change is due to the definite pay package with incentives. Also, the working conditions and lifestyles seem to be much more reasonable and in harmony in the jobs in hospitality, aviation and retail, he said.