Examining the Effectiveness of Human Resource Recruitment Strategies on Organizational Performance in the Hospitality Industry: A Case Study of Radisson Blu Hotel Lusaka

The hospitality industry in Zambia faces persistent human resource (HR) recruitment challenges driven by skills mismatches, informality, and weak enforcement of labor policies. This study examined the effectiveness of HR recruitment strategies on organizational performance, using Radisson Blu Hotel Lusaka as a case study. Guided by the Resource- Based View (RBV) theory, the study focused on three objectives: to identify recruitment strategies used at Radisson Blu, to assess their effectiveness on performance, and to evaluate their alignment with Zambia’s labor market conditions. Employing a quantitative, descriptive case study design, data were collected via structured questionnaires from 50 employees and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and correlation analysis. Findings revealed that Radisson Blu relies mainly on employee referrals (34%), digital platforms (28%), and its careers page (20%), with internal promotions (12%) and Radisson Academy training (2%) underutilized. Strategies were rated highly effective, with 80% of respondents affirming success in securing qualified staff, 90% linking them to job satisfaction, and 78% noting improved productivity. Strong correlations between qualified hires, retention, satisfaction, and productivity (r > 0.92, p < 0.001) underscored recruitment as a driver of performance. Moreover, 74% rated the strategies as well-aligned with Zambia’s labor market despite challenges like skilled labor shortages and digital literacy gaps. The study concludes that Radisson Blu’s recruitment strategies are effective in attracting and retaining competent talent while remaining responsive to local labor dynamics. To sustain competitiveness, however, the hotel should strengthen internal career development and diversify assessment tools. Overall, the study provides empirical evidence that recruitment is a strategic lever for organizational excellence and competitive advantage in Zambia’s hospitality industry.