Exploratory-triangulation design in mixed methods studies: A case of examining graduating seniors who meet hospitality recruiters’ selection criteria

Abstract

This article introduces the exploratory-triangulation mixed methods approach to hospitality and tourism research. A specific empirical example of using the exploratory-triangulation design is illustrated. With this approach, hospitality recruiters’ selection criteria for entry-level managerial positions in the college recruiting settings were explored and triangulated with the attributes of hospitality graduating seniors who receive job offers. The advantages and disadvantages of the exploratory-triangulation design are discussed. Considerations are proposed for researchers who plan to adopt the exploratory-triangulation mix methods approach in future studies.