Factors Influencing Hospitality Students’ Career Goals in Indonesia

Abstract

Although the hospitality industry is growing rapidly, several studies show that the industry still lacks a skilled workforce to meet demands. This condition is exacerbated by the fact that many hospitality students change their career aspirations after they graduate. The purpose of this research is to explore the factors that influence the career goals of hospitality students in Indonesia. A self-administered survey was utilized to collect data from Indonesian hospitality students. A total of 430 questionnaires were gathered for statistical analysis. The data were analysed by using the partial least squares structural equation modelling tool that gives proof of data dependability and validity. The empirical results show that the students’ intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation significantly influences undergraduate hospitality students’ career goals. Similarly, the study also found that career exposure and third parties positively influence hospitality students’ career goals. The findings in this study are beneficial for hospitality businesses in preparing and establishing their strategy in the recruitment process. Meanwhile, for higher education institutions, they can better prepare their students by providing various learning opportunities such as seminars, so that students can get career exposure and attain a realistic picture of their future careers.
Keywords: career goals, motivation, career exposure, third parties