Before university, I trained as a car mechanic because I had always loved cars, and there were not many opportunities where I grew up. I thought it would be a good fit, but quickly realised it wasn’t for me. I spent a year doing it, but didn’t gain enough experience or confidence to work independently.

Then I started studying tourism and hospitality at the University of Debrecen, where I live. When I left high school, English was the only skill I felt I could build a career on, and hospitality seemed the best option. It has turned out very well.

Towards the end of my degree, I was lucky to get a job as a bellman at the hotel where I was doing work experience. It was a turning point in my career: without that offer, I probably would have had to leave Debrecen because I couldn’t afford accommodation outside university and would have moved back to my hometown.

I showed a strong interest in front office and spent most of my shifts helping at reception. My Front Office Manager noticed, and when a position became available, I was offered the role without hesitation.

I spent three years there. In 2022, when Mercure Debrecen opened, I applied immediately because I had always wanted to join an international hotel group, and I was hired as a Receptionist. Shortly afterwards, I had the chance to take on the role of Housekeeping Supervisor alongside my Front Office position. That was another important moment in my career because I developed skills I use every day in my current role.

When I heard that Accor was taking over the Lycium, a landmark hotel in the city, and learned that the General Manager at the Mercure would become the cluster GM there, I applied to be Front Office Manager. I loved the management at the Mercure and hoped they would give me an opportunity because they knew I was reliable and always ready to help. I got the job, and I love it.

At Accor, there is always an opportunity to grow. The company and its hotels offer many development opportunities, supported by a wide range of online training programmes. I also appreciate the Heartist® spirit among my colleagues. Starting every day knowing there is a friendly, smiling team waiting for you is priceless. No two days are the same, and that is exciting.

I would recommend hospitality because it is not a typical 9-to-5 office job. Every day brings new challenges, and they support your personal and professional development. After some time in the industry, you realise how much cooperation between departments is needed to make each day run smoothly and ensure every guest leaves happy. When everything clicks, it is hugely satisfying to see a team grow together, develop that collaboration and be part of it.

Being a Heartist® means reaching the point where your smile is genuine, your attitude is positive and you are always willing to help. That can make a huge difference, not only to your own day but also to a guest or colleague who may be having a hard time and simply needs someone to make them smile.

Without doubt, my team is my biggest achievement. Over the past few years, I have handled major arrivals and difficult situations in both housekeeping and front of house, solving problems for guests in ways they truly valued. My first task in this role was to create a strong, reliable reception team for a new hotel, part of Handwritten Collection, one of Accor’s newest brands, and I exceeded my own expectations. I could not have wished for a more dedicated, proactive, capable and friendly team. Most importantly, they genuinely care about one another. Strong friendships have developed, and I am extremely proud of that.

My advice is to be willing to act. When a problem comes your way, step up, make yourself visible and give it a go. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; your managers and colleagues will support you when you have a good idea and the motivation to make it happen. Be proactive and step out of your comfort zone. If you are a Receptionist and want to learn how to make a great latte, ask to spend a day behind the coffee bar. Most importantly, enjoy yourself and be a Heartist®.