PMS (Property Management System)
A Property Management System (PMS) is the central software that hotels and resorts use to manage their daily operations. Think of it as the digital command center where staff can handle everything from reservations and check-ins to room assignments and billing. It's similar to how a retail store has a point-of-sale system, but specifically designed for hotels. Popular systems include Opera PMS, Cloudbeds, and ATOMS. These systems help hotel staff keep track of guests, rooms, and payments all in one place, making it easier to run the property efficiently.
Examples in Resumes
Managed daily operations using PMS and Property Management System to handle 200+ room bookings
Trained staff of 15 on Opera PMS and other Property Management System functions
Improved guest satisfaction scores by 30% through efficient use of PMS system
Typical job title: "Hotel Operations Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Hotel Operations Managers
Online Communities
Job Boards
Industry Events
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where the PMS system goes down during peak check-in time?
Expected Answer: A senior manager should discuss backup procedures, manual check-in processes, communication strategies with staff and guests, and steps to minimize impact on guest experience while working with IT to resolve the issue.
Q: How have you used PMS data to improve revenue management?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they've used system reports to analyze occupancy patterns, adjust room rates, identify peak periods, and make strategic decisions to increase revenue.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key reports you generate from the PMS daily?
Expected Answer: Should mention occupancy reports, revenue reports, housekeeping reports, and arrival/departure lists, explaining how each is used in daily operations.
Q: How do you ensure data accuracy in the PMS?
Expected Answer: Should discuss regular auditing procedures, staff training on proper data entry, double-checking reservations, and reconciliation processes.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic functions of a PMS?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic features like check-in/check-out processes, room assignments, billing, and reservation management.
Q: How do you handle a basic guest check-in using the PMS?
Expected Answer: Should describe the step-by-step process of checking in a guest, including verifying reservation, assigning rooms, collecting payment, and issuing key cards.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic check-in and check-out procedures
- Room booking and reservation management
- Guest billing and payment processing
- Basic report generation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced reservation management
- Staff training and supervision
- Troubleshooting common system issues
- Revenue report analysis
Senior (5+ years)
- System optimization and customization
- Integration with other hotel systems
- Strategic revenue management
- Staff development and department management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with any PMS software
- Inability to handle basic guest check-in/check-out procedures
- Lack of understanding of hotel operations workflow
- Poor customer service skills or guest relations experience
Related Terms
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