Amit Sangwan, General Manager at Novotel Ahmedabad, on positioning the hotel as a market leader
BY SHUJATH ALI
One year into your job, are there still any challenges that you are facing?
I have been in my role for a year now, and I am pleased to share that there haven’t been any significant challenges that I am currently facing. The transition into this position has been smooth, and I have been able to adapt well to the new environment.
While there is always an adjustment period when stepping into a new culture and understanding the intricacies of human behaviour in a specific geographical location, I am confident that I have settled into my role quite comfortably. I look forward to further contributing to the success of Novotel Ahmedabad and ensuring a positive experience for both guests and the hotel team.
What, according to you, are the hotel’s USPs?
I believe our hotel’s unique selling points are anchored in the unparalleled dedication of our staff and the exceptional relationships they foster with our guests. Our team consistently goes above and beyond to fulfil the needs of our guests, with Novotel hospitality as their top priority.
Moreover, the strategic location of our 222-room property is a key feature, offering convenience and accessibility for both business and leisure travellers. Our distinctive meeting rooms provide a professional and versatile space for various events, enhancing the overall guest experience.
Additionally, being the only pet-friendly hotel in Ahmedabad sets us apart, catering to the needs of pet owners and providing a unique and welcoming environment.
These elements collectively make Novotel Ahmedabad a truly remarkable and distinctive choice for travellers seeking exceptional service, convenient amenities, and a personalised experience.
What is your favourite thing about this hotel?
My favourite thing about Novotel Ahmedabad is the sense of it being a home away from home. Just like one’s own home, everything about Novotel holds a special place in my heart.
The cohesive teamwork among the staff, the warm hospitality extended to our guests, and the excellence of our products and services collectively contribute to creating a welcoming and comfortable environment. It’s this sense of familiarity and dedication to providing a home-like experience that makes Novotel Ahmedabad truly special.
What aspect of the hotel do you think needs to be focussed on?
In the dynamic hospitality industry, change is constant, and we are committed to staying ahead by enhancing our products and offerings. It is crucial to keep up with new trends in the market, ensuring that our services remain relevant and appealing to our clientele.
Additionally, we prioritise maintaining a healthy competition by regularly assessing and benchmarking our performance against industry standards. Our goal is to provide an exceptional and memorable experience for our guests, and to achieve this, we will continue to invest in innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Any new changes that you plan to introduce with regard to your offerings?
Certainly! We are always committed to converting our hotel into a sustainable haven, continuously seeking to adopt more eco-friendly practices for the well-being of our internal and external guests.
What are the key steps you are taking to woo new-age travellers?
To attract new-age travellers, we are implementing several key initiatives such as below:
Entertainment options: We offer a variety of OTT channels in-room, ensuring our guests have access to their favourite shows and movies for a personalised entertainment experience.
Express check-in and check-out: Our express check-in and check-out services are designed to save time and provide a seamless experience, allowing guests to enjoy more of their stay without the hassle of long waits.
Health and wellness focus: Our wellness offerings, including a fully equipped gym, open to sky swimming pool, a relaxing spa and healthy dining options, ensure guests can maintain their wellness routines while traveling.
Are there any surprises in store for guests in the coming seasons?
We have exciting surprises in store for our guests in the coming season. We are strategically located to offer a unique and memorable experience, and we are proud to unveil a new look and new offerings at the hotel.
To keep the element of surprise intact, I invite you to visit and witness the changes first hand. Our team has worked diligently to enhance the overall guest experience, and we are confident that these surprises will add an extra layer of enjoyment to your stay. We look forward to welcoming you to Novotel Ahmedabad and providing you with an unforgettable experience.
Given that sustainability is becoming an important factor for guests these days, what are some green practices that is being adopted by the hotel?
In response to the growing significance of sustainability for guests, hotels are increasingly incorporating environmentally friendly practices. Novotel Ahmedabad has implemented a range of changes to support sustainable practices, including transitioning from traditional key cards to wooden ones at check-in, eliminating single-use plastics throughout the hotel, establishing its water and gas plants, and introducing an electric vehicle charging station.
With these initiatives, the hotel aims to achieve full sustainability, ensuring adherence to essential sustainable practices in the near future. Recently, we introduced e-bikes to offer a sustainable way for our guests to explore the city, enhancing their overall experience while reducing our environmental footprint.
Why did you choose to become a hotelier?
I pursued a career in the hospitality industry because discipline serves as a crucial motivator for me. Coming from a background rooted in an army family, where dedication and discipline are ingrained values, I have drawn inspiration from my family’s commitment to serving the nation.
The hotel industry resonates with me due to its 24/7 nature, streamlined work management, and the sense of responsibility that aligns seamlessly with the principles of dedication and discipline instilled in me by my family.
How do you maintain work-life balance?
As a hotelier with a background in F&B, balancing work and personal life can be challenging. However, after a decade in the industry, I have discovered that effective time management is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Despite the demands of the job, I prioritise time with my family and indulge in my passion for travel. Taking my vehicle on the road during days off allows me to explore new and nearby places.
Fortunately, my current assignment places me in a world heritage city, providing ample opportunities for exploration and making it easier to strike a balance between work and life.
