Her Story
About Cristal
Cristal Roberson is the General Manager of Holiday Inn Express in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She brings extensive experience in the hospitality industry, with a focus on delivering personalized and genuine customer service to both guests and her team. Roberson began her career in the United States at Panda Express, advancing from front-of-house positions to general manager over nine years before transitioning to hotel management following the COVID-19 pandemic. She holds a bachelor's degree in business administration and an associate degree in Computer Secretario, earned in the Philippines prior to relocating to the U.S. 15 years ago. Roberson attributes her professional success to her passion for her work and her ability to empathize by putting herself in others' shoes. She values respect and clear communication above all, and she advises embracing discomfort and remaining open-minded to achieve growth, likening it to a hermit crab seeking a larger shell.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Cristal
01What do you attribute your success to?
For me, it's the passion. When I do something, I put my heart into it, and also at the same time I put myself on the other shoe too.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My boss before said you need to dance with her music. When working in a corporate world you have to do what you need to do and be open-minded. If you want to learn new things and see yourself to the next level you have to be open-minded and be uncomfortable. Like the hermit crab, when they're not comfortable they find a bigger shell. Don't settle for what you have right now and don't be afraid for challenges or changes.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be who you are and what you are, know how to respect people and their boundaries. Work hard and show what you got.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is shifting from restaurant to hospitality in hotels. It's the amount of guest complaints. In food service you just remake the food or refund but in hospitality little things on the property and budget constraints mean you have to wing it. You cannot please everyone.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Respect is a big thing. Communication is very challenging but important. Respect is the main thing of everything.
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