What if your next career move wasn’t something you stumbled into, but something you intentionally designed? At Marriott, thousands of associates take bold steps every year (some small and steady, others big and transformative) that move them closer to the work that energizes them. And while every journey looks different, one simple truth shows up again and again: growth happens when you’re in the driver’s seat.
To help associates think ahead to 2026 and beyond, we sat down with three Marriott career experts—Elena Bell, Senior Director, Career Growth & Leadership Development; Sarah D’Angelo, Director, Talent Acquisition & University Recruitment; and Eleni de Leo, Senior Manager, Career Growth & Development—to gather their most practical and inspiring advice.
Whether you’re thinking about applying to your first hotel role or considering a major career pivot, keep reading to learn these experts’ top mindset shifts, tools, and steps to help you shape a meaningful next move.
What is one mindset shift or habit that helps associates take ownership of their career growth at Marriott?
Elena: A powerful shift is realizing that career growth isn’t something that happens to you, it’s something you actively design. The most successful people I know are those who stay open-minded and curious. They ask for feedback, seek out stretch projects, and view every experience as a chance to grow. Taking ownership starts with curiosity about yourself, your strengths, your impact, and the opportunities that exist across Marriott.
Sarah: A mindset shift I recommend is not focusing on titles but focusing on the work you like to do. I think a lot of people get hung up on getting to the next level as ‘growth’ but really you can grow where you are.
Eleni: This is a great opportunity to embrace our Leadership Essentials to Be Curious, Be Courageous, and Be Connected. You are empowered to ask questions, take the lead in setting your own goals and build relationships with those around you.
What practical steps can associates take now to prepare for a career move in 2026?
Elena: I would recommend starting with reflection. One of the best ways to get clarity is to pause and think about what energizes you, what parts of your job you love, what challenges you want more of, and what skills you want to build. Once you have some insights, schedule regular career conversations with your leader but remember, you own the process. Finally, focus on connection, grow your network and invest in relationships. I heard a quote once that stuck with me: ‘No one grows alone, your network is the greatest accelerator of your career.’
Sarah: It’s all about networking. A 15-min ‘coffee chat’ or virtual call goes a long way. And the other thing I’d suggest is to constantly update your resume, keep a running list of accomplishments as you go along right on your resume!
Eleni: I personally really like to reference Become and the Become Development Library. The guides can help you prepare for a career conversation with your manager. In addition, meet with your manager to understand the available formal learning opportunities for your current role.
How can associates leverage Marriott’s internal tools or programs?
Elena: Marriott offers so many resources to help you grow: En Route Core Leadership, Become, Own Your Career, Associate Resource Groups. The key is to stay engaged and use these offerings as part of an ongoing growth habit.
Sarah: I think it all starts with training and developing your skills. The DLZ has thousands of online courses, and you can also ask your manager for additional instructor-led or in-person training.
Why is giving feedback so critical for career growth?
Elena: Feedback fuels performance. Ask simple, specific questions like, ‘What’s one thing I could do differently next time?’
Sarah: It’s ESSENTIAL. Feedback is a gift! I encourage everyone to ask for regular feedback, weekly even.
Eleni: Giving and receiving feedback matters because it highlights strengths, identifies opportunities, and helps unlock your full potential.
Any final encouragement for associates thinking about their next move?
Elena: You don’t have to have it all figured out, you just have to take the next step and stay open.
Sarah: Don’t second guess yourself, be confident in who you are and what you bring to the table.
Eleni: Change can be scary, but it unlocks new possibilities. Build relationships and voice your goals to everyone around you.
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