Why did you choose to join this company?
I had always wanted a career that would allow me to help create happy memories for others. Travel is a special experience for many people, so I was drawn to the idea of supporting those important moments.
What ultimately inspired me to join the company was the opportunity to work in Kyoto, one of Japan’s leading travel destinations, and help guests make the most of their time here. I was particularly attracted to AJ InterBridge because I could contribute to the memories of guests from Japan and around the world through stays in traditional machiya accommodations that are unique to Kyoto.
Has your impression of the role changed since you joined the company?
Before joining the company, I imagined hotel front desk work to be a largely reactive role—welcoming guests at reception and responding whenever they had a question or request.
Once I began working, however, I realized how important it is to think one step ahead to ensure that every guest has a comfortable stay. Rather than simply responding to requests, we often need to anticipate what a guest may need and make thoughtful suggestions based on the situation. The role requires much more initiative than I initially expected, which also makes it especially rewarding.
What kind of support did you receive as you learned the role?
As someone who joined the company directly after graduating, I especially appreciated how patiently my senior colleagues taught me the fundamentals of working in a professional environment. They supported me with every aspect of the role, from how to approach my daily responsibilities to communicating politely with guests, handling telephone calls, and working effectively with the rest of the team.
At first, many parts of the job were unfamiliar, and I sometimes felt unsure of myself. However, I was always able to ask for help whenever I needed it, which allowed me to learn with confidence. I feel that I have been able to grow because of the support of those around me. When I have junior colleagues of my own in the future, I hope to offer them the same kind of support.
When do you find your work most rewarding?
I find it especially rewarding to see guests leave with a smile after completing their stay. Travel is an important and memorable occasion for many people, so I feel both a sense of responsibility and genuine happiness in being able to support that experience.
Another rewarding moment is when I feel that we have provided an experience that exceeded a guest’s expectations. When information I shared or assistance I provided becomes part of a guest’s memories—or when they tell us they would like to return—I can see that my work has helped make their trip more enjoyable. Experiences like these motivate me in my work every day.
When do you feel that you have grown in your role?
As front desk staff, we are among the closest points of contact for our guests, so we receive a wide variety of questions and requests each day. When I first joined the company, there were many things I did not know, and I often consulted my senior colleagues before responding. As I gained experience, I gradually became able to make decisions independently and assist guests more smoothly.
I particularly notice my growth when I can answer a guest’s question accurately on the spot or suggest something suited to their individual needs. I still have a great deal to learn, but I hope to continue building on each experience and become someone our guests can always rely on.
What would you like to take on or achieve in the future?
I want to become someone who does more than respond to guests’ requests. My goal is to think one step ahead and offer thoughtful suggestions based on each guest’s individual interests and plans. I would like to better understand how every guest hopes to spend their time and provide the information and services best suited to them.
