Property Management System
A Property Management System (PMS) is the central software that hotels use to manage their daily operations. Think of it as the digital command center where staff handle everything from guest bookings and check-ins to room assignments and billing. It's like the hotel's digital brain that keeps track of which rooms are occupied, what needs cleaning, and how much to charge guests. Common systems include Opera PMS, Cloudbeds, and InnRoad. These systems help hotel staff work more efficiently by putting all the important information in one place, rather than using separate systems for different tasks.
Examples in Resumes
Managed daily operations using Property Management System to handle guest bookings and check-ins
Trained staff on PMS functionality and best practices
Implemented new Hotel Property Management System to improve operational efficiency
Typical job title: "Hotel Operations Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Hotel Operations Managers
Industry Forums
Professional Networks
Job Boards
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: Should discuss backup procedures, manual processing methods, communication strategies with guests and staff, and preventive measures to avoid future incidents.
Q: How have you used PMS data to improve revenue management?
Expected Answer: Should explain using system reports for pricing decisions, occupancy tracking, and identifying booking patterns to maximize revenue.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What strategies do you use to ensure accurate guest billing through the PMS?
Expected Answer: Should discuss daily audit procedures, charge verification, integration with point-of-sale systems, and handling billing disputes.
Q: How do you train new staff on using the PMS?
Expected Answer: Should describe creating training materials, hands-on practice sessions, common mistake prevention, and ongoing support methods.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic functions of a Property Management System?
Expected Answer: Should mention reservations, check-in/out procedures, room assignments, and basic billing functions.
Q: How do you handle a basic guest check-in using the PMS?
Expected Answer: Should explain verifying reservation details, assigning rooms, collecting payment information, and issuing room keys.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic guest check-in and check-out
- Room availability management
- Simple billing procedures
- Basic report generation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced reservation management
- Staff training and supervision
- Revenue report analysis
- Problem resolution
Senior (5+ years)
- System configuration and customization
- Integration with other hotel systems
- Strategic revenue management
- Staff development and operations optimization
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with any PMS software
- Poor understanding of basic hotel operations
- Lack of customer service experience
- Unable to handle multiple tasks during busy periods
