On 30th October 2025, the Guest Service Associate trainees of Don Bosco Tech-Monsada, B4 batch (250308), embarked on an enriching industrial visit to Hotel Haveli in Krishnanagar. Coordinated by Mr. Provakar Majumder and Mr. Prokash Halder, the visit was designed to provide trainees with firsthand exposure to the dynamic world of hospitality and front office operations.

The primary purpose of the visit was to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application, offering a unique opportunity to witness the nuances of guest service and hotel management in action. For Guest Service Associates, understanding the intricacies of guest handling, service standards, and operational coordination is crucial, and this visit served as a gateway to real-world professional experiences.

The day began with a warm welcome from the hotel’s Training Manager, who provided an orientation on the hotel’s history, services, and commitment to quality. This was followed by a guided property tour, allowing the trainees to explore key areas including the front desk and reception, concierge and lobby, guest lounges, restaurants, business centers, and back-office administrative units.

A detailed session with the Front Office Manager offered a deep dive into the core responsibilities of a Guest Service Associate. Trainees observed step-by-step check-in and check-out procedures, reservation handling—both online and walk-in—and the effective use of the Property Management System (PMS) for room assignments, billing, and service coordination. Insights into managing guest complaints, implementing service recovery, and collaborating with departments such as housekeeping and food & beverage highlighted the collaborative nature of hotel operations.

The highlight of the visit was the live demonstration of guest interactions. Trainees witnessed welcoming guests, handling queries, managing billing, and resolving complaints in real-time. These observations provided a practical understanding of the skills, patience, and professionalism required to maintain guest satisfaction.

Interaction with seasoned hotel professionals further enriched the experience. Staff shared their personal journeys, emphasizing grooming, effective communication, time management, and real-life challenges faced in guest service. The trainees actively engaged in a question-and-answer session, discussing career opportunities, strategies for managing difficult guests, and effective up-selling techniques.

Key takeaways from the visit included the importance of first impressions, mastering communication techniques, practical familiarity with hotel software, and the critical role of professionalism, etiquette, and teamwork in ensuring smooth operations.

The industrial visit proved to be more than just an observational exercise; it was a source of inspiration. Trainees left with renewed enthusiasm to refine their interpersonal skills, enhance their service standards, and apply their learning in future internships and careers. The experience underscored the value of connecting theoretical knowledge with practical exposure, preparing the trainees to meet the challenges of the hospitality industry with confidence and competence.

The event, held on 30th October 2025, will be remembered as a pivotal step in shaping the professional journey of the Guest Service Associate trainees of Don Bosco Tech-Monsada.