Exploration of Soft Skills and Perceived Career Readiness Among Hospitality Management Students

Abstract

This study examined the soft skills and perceived career readiness of 249 Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) students at West Visayas State University – Himamaylan City Campus during Academic Year 2024–2025. Using a quantitative descriptive research design, the study explored variations in soft skills and readiness across sex, year level, and socio-economic status. Data were gathered through a validated and reliable Likert-scale questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results indicated that students, regardless of demographic profile, demonstrated high levels of soft skills and perceived themselves as ready for employment. The most dominant soft skills were self-motivation and direction, teamwork spirit, willingness to learn, leadership, conflict management, and time management. A statistically significant strong positive correlation was found between soft skills and career readiness, suggesting that students who possess higher soft skills feel more prepared for the workplace. These findings affirm the institution’s inclusive learning environment and effective curricular strategies in enhancing students’ professional competencies. The study supports continued integration of soft skills training in academic programs and provides baseline data for institutional improvements, industry alignment, and further research. KEYWORDS: Soft Skills, Career Readiness, Hospitality Management, BSHM Students, Employability, Higher Education, Quantitative Research