Housekeeping: Celebrating individuality at QT
Three Executive Housekeepers from QT reveal all! The job, the guests, the industry & their own unique quirks
QT Hotels & Resorts, or QT, is no ordinary brand, with a focus on art and design, it is one of the most loved and dynamic boutique hotel brands operating in Australia and New Zealand.
But it’s also a very fun place to work!
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In this series, AccomNews spoke with some of QT’s most valued team members, this week we hear from three Executive Housekeepers.
Executive Housekeeper, QT Newcastle Judy Carter’s career in hospitality began many years ago when she was a single parent and needed a job with flexible hours. Starting from the bottom, she worked her way up and is now its highly respected Executive Housekeeper.
And she is proud her daughter has also followed in her footsteps.
Why QT? “It’s one of the most unique hotel brands I’ve ever had the privilege to work for.”
QT stands out to Judy because of its unique approach to bringing out the best in its employees.
“QT allows its employees the freedom to showcase their individuality in the workplace,” she said.
Her team ‘fills her cup’.
“Observing my team work together to achieve a common goal is incredibly fulfilling. During challenging times, seeing them pull together is a testament to their hard work and dedication.”
To relax she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and walks with her adored fur baby.
She confessed that, although she enjoys human guest interactions at work, her favourite guests are the “Pup Yeah” guests.
“I always make time to snuggle with our furry friends during their stay.”
Finally, her favourite design feature in the hotel? “The big moon in the lobby but look up or you might miss it!”
Emma Searle, Housekeeping Supervisor at QT Canberra loves leading and motivating a great team to do the best possible job, allowing guests to have an outstanding experience.
Emma is very active and that’s one reason why she enjoys the fast-paced nature of her role but winds down after work by taking her dog, Bentley for a walk.
On leadership, she said: “Delegation is key, everyone has different strengths, and learning to delegate efficiently is essential for the best outcome.”
Her favourite design piece in QT Canberra is the “Political Wall of Power” art installation in the lobby. She also loves the QT uniform because it allows her to express her individuality and creativity. It embraces the QT Philosophy – “To be The One for One. Celebrating individuality, we treat every guest as one rare, unique individual – because they are!”
Housekeepers are often in close contact with guests and Emma said she built a memorable relationship with a guest who stayed for an extended period during COVID-19 lockdowns.
“He has continued to visit at every opportunity since and has now become part of the QT Canberra family.”
QT is famous for its attention to detail and Emma’s tip is to try the bathrobes: “Don’t underestimate the comfort of our luxe, QT Canberra robe.”
Amy Lou, Executive Housekeeper, QT Melbourne appreciates her job has “opened doors to limitless opportunities and allowed her to interact with people from across the globe”.
She most enjoys working alongside a diverse and vibrant community and said it’s like being part of “a tight-knit family”.
For Amy, the most special times are when customers personally acknowledge her team’s exceptional cleaning and service and call them out by name.
“Witnessing this well-deserved recognition fills me with happiness,” she said.
Her top cleaning tip? For a sparkling clean kettle, filled with a sweet aroma, boil water with two slices of lemon, and let it sit for ten minutes. Then, simply drain the water, and voila!”
The most fun part of Amy’s job is: “Embracing the excitement of every day! Each day at QT is a fresh adventure, full of endless possibilities and joyful moments.”
Mandy has over 17 years of accommodation and tourism industry writing experience and is Editor of AccomNews & Resort News, Publisher of SchoolNews & Director of Multimedia Pty Ltd. She is a retired registered nurse with a 25-year NHS career that followed a few unforgettable years in hotel housekeeping.
