A Bibliometric Analysis of Training, Competencies, and Job Readiness in the Hotel and Tourism Industry: Trends and Future Directions

The hospitality and tourism industry face significant challenges in preparing a skilled workforce to meet evolving market demands. This study analyzes research trends related to training, competencies, and job readiness in the sector, focusing on key themes, influential contributors, and existing gaps. Utilizing the Scopus database, 205 publications from 2019 to 2023 were analyzed using bibliometric tools such as VOSviewer and R software. The analysis identified significant journals, authors, institutions, and research themes, particularly in Industry 4.0, green human resource management, and post-pandemic workforce requirements. Key findings indicate a growing academic interest in these areas, highlighting the need for continuous adaptation in educational curricula to develop interpersonal, innovation, and resilience competencies. This study underscores the importance of aligning training programs with industry needs to ensure job readiness and competitiveness. Theoretically, it enhances understanding of how technological advancements and sustainability practices shape workforce development. Practically, it guides educators and industry practitioners in designing effective training programs. Methodologically, the study demonstrates the value of bibliometric analysis in uncovering research trends. However, the reliance on the Scopus database may exclude relevant publications from other sources, limiting the comprehensiveness of the analysis. The exclusion of non-English publications might also narrow the scope. Future research should integrate multiple databases and consider sector-specific analyses to address these limitations. This study provides valuable insights for enhancing hospitality and tourism workforce preparedness, contributing to academic research and practical applications.