Pusaka : Journal of Tourism, Hospitality, Travel and Business Event
Vol. 8 No. 2 (2026): August-December

Tourism English Manner in Guest Complaint Handling: Hospitality Students’ On-the-Job Training Experiences

Ni Made Ayu Sulasmini (Institut Pariwisata dan Bisnis Internasional)
Denok Lestari (Institut Pariwisata dan Bisnis Internasional)
Naniana Nimrod Benu (Artha Wacana Christian University)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 Aug 2026

Abstract

Effective guest complaint handling in hospitality requires the integration of linguistic competence, emotional awareness, politeness, and professional service behavior. However, these competencies are often examined separately, resulting in a fragmented understanding of hospitality communication. This study explores Tourism English Manner (TEM) as an integrative framework comprising three dimensions: Reflective, Utter, and Serve. Using a mixed-method case study, the research involved 79 hospitality students from Institut Pariwisata dan Bisnis Internasional (IPBI) Bali who had completed On-the-Job Training (OJT). Data were collected through questionnaires and focus group interviews, with qualitative data analyzed thematically and survey results used to support interpretation. The findings reveal that students demonstrated three interconnected communication practices when handling guest complaints. First, they showed awareness of guest dissatisfaction but limited engagement in deeper reflective processes such as emotional regulation and critical self-evaluation. Second, they frequently employed polite English expressions, empathy, and negotiation strategies to maintain positive interactions. Third, they demonstrated strong service recovery skills through problem-solving actions and professional responses. The study positions TEM as a holistic communication model and highlights the need to strengthen reflective learning in hospitality English education.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

pusaka

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Environmental Science Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Other

Description

Pusaka: Journal of Tourism, Hospitality, Travel and Business Event. ISSN: 2656-1336 (Print) | ISSN: 2656-1301 (Online) is an international open access and peer-reviewed journal, published by Politeknik Pariwisata Makassar, Indonesia. It is published two times a year in February-July and ...