Symbiosis in nature is the interaction between two distinct species looking to forge closer long-term relationships. There are three
types of interactions; “Mutualism” (honey bees and flowers for example, where
both species benefit), “Commensalism” (A bird’s nest on a tree for example,
where one species benefits whilst the other is not harmed) and “Parasitism”
(humans and mosquitoes for example, where one species benefits and the other
is harmed). Symbiotic, human to human interactions seek to form closer
long-term relationships based on “Mutualism”, the type of interaction where
there is mutual benefit. In the business context, symbiosis happens when key
stakeholders collaborate as true partners (not adversaries) for mutual
benefit. Assets exist to provide value to the organization and its
stakeholders. The hotel asset owner through his representative interacts with
the hotel brand operator to create value; find improvements, find
opportunities. This book primarily looks at hospitality management, key
relationships and the complex operational dynamics between two key
stakeholders; hotel asset owners and their branded hotel operators focusing
on five key principles and a symbiotic leadership approach as a key enabler.
There is a lot of room for improvement and it is this crucial relationship
that is examined. This guidebook has been written for hotel brand operators,
hotel asset owners and their representatives who are managing, overseeing or
monitoring a business venture for themselves or on behalf of others. It is
also a valuable guide for students of hospitality as well as the curious
layman – anyone who has stayed in a hotel.
