Nazuna has introduced an innovative hospitality recruitment approach that intends to address the persistent issue of high employee turnover in the sector. Partnering with ‘in the HOTEL,’ a specialized hotel industry recruitment service, the company now offers potential candidates a free stay at one of its luxury machiya inns in Kyoto before proceeding with formal interviews. This ‘Stay first, then interview’ model allows job seekers to immerse themselves in the work environment, interact with staff, and gain firsthand insight into the company’s service philosophy.

The hospitality recruitment initiative is rooted in Realistic Job Preview (RJP) theory, which emphasizes transparency in hiring by allowing candidates to experience workplace conditions before committing. Given that Japan’s accommodation and food service industry has a 26.6% turnover rate — far above the national average — Nazuna’s strategy aims to attract applicants who are genuinely aligned with its culture of ‘meddlesome hospitality’ (proactive, attentive service) and luxury guest experience. The company has already implemented pre-hiring workplace trials, but this new model deepens engagement.

Image Credit: Nazuna