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 Curtis Solomon
Guest Service Agent,
Fairmont Olympic Hotel
Curtis Solomon considered careers in sales and law enforcement but opted for a career in tourism instead. He worked at the Sheraton Waikiki ten years prior to moving to Seattle. This month marks his nine-year anniversary at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel (which was operated by Four Seasons when he began). He was named Employee of the Year for the property in 2003.
Tourism is Hawaii's largest industry and the third largest industry in the Washington State. What's it like to work in each place?
I don't know if we fully embrace tourism over here. In Hawaii, it's the opposite. When I was there in the 1990s, the Japanese and Asian markets fell and we really noticed the impact. Hawaiians know that tourism is a vital industry.
Do you notice when tourism is high or low in this area?
Oh yes - yes, yes! My lower back notices when we have 275 post-cruise check-ins, each guest with 12 bags. During the summer, we get lots of families and we help arrange itineraries for them. This time of year, we're starting to see more Japanese tourists again, and when the Lakers and Celtics are in town, daily work is busier, both because of fans and a lot of businesses around town that really benefit from basketball.
Why does tourism matter to you?
Tourism has helped me cultivate professionalism. I can say thank you in 16 languages. I can deal with every situation - nothing surprises me. You've got to let everything roll off your back and learn to be gentle and tolerant with each person you come across.
At the Fairmont, I get to work with people who can and do provide Five Diamond service. No one wants to drop the ball. You really want to provide that service. That's what we do and there's a real satisfaction in doing things for guests. I try to stay one step ahead and to anticipate needs. My job is not to ask why, but to find a way to do it. No matter where I go, I'll take that commitment to service with me. I'm always going to go above and beyond.
[Editor's note: Mr. Solomon provided this interview on his day off].
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