Rose DiLiello, Corporate/Association Sales Manager, Hyatt Place Long Island/ East End & Atlantis Banquets & Events/Preston House & Hotel

Why did you choose the field of hospitality/associations and what about it keeps you going? 
I happened to fall into it.  I started as a waitress and after a few months, I felt it was a calling to work in hospitality.   I love meeting new people and I thrive on the hustle and bustle of the hotel business. No two days are ever the same and when working with a fantastic team you feel like you are part of a family. As a bonus, I was able to take advantage of hotel discounts and travel, experiencing great destinations all over the world.

How has the pandemic impacted your career or your role within your organization?
When the pandemic came, it made me think about how I do business, my skillset and life in general.  Instead of reaching out to customers asking for new business I simply reached out to keep in touch and to keep my company in mind for when business is back to normal.  Zoom meetings replaced networking events.   It basically came down to what I needed to do to stay relevant and stay connected to colleagues and clients.  Years of hotel experience have taught me to be proactive.  For a few weeks in the summer I was furloughed and it gave me an appreciation of the time I got to spend with my family and friends. I’ve been back since August and my weekly hours are back to normal.

What advice do you have for young professionals looking to pursue a career in hotel sales – association market? 
It’s not a just a job and a paycheck.  It’s about believing in yourself, loving what you do and the people you work for.  If you want to work in the hospitality field, you have to like your job, like people and be willing to go the extra mile.  I find it satisfying to see the results of a successful event.  I find most people in the hospitality and association field are very passionate about what they do.

Tell me about your experience (s) of engagement with NYSAE this past year?
I miss face-to-face education and networking events with my colleagues.  NYSAE Zoom events were an excellent way to keep in touch, build relationships, share ideas and knowledge.  It made me realize we will all get through this together. I frequently logged-on these Zoom events 15 minutes early so I could socialize on a personal level. The meetings brought back a normalcy to my work day.

When you’re not focused on work, where can we find you? 
You can find me with friends and family, gardening or strolling Long Island beaches for “sea treasure.”  I love searching for beach glass.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rose-diliello-21775317/