Being stuck in a rut as a hotelier sucks. We’ve all been there. Those sleepless nights, staring at the ceiling, wondering what else you can try to drive sales for your hotel.
NB: This is an article from Xotels
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It’s a theme that keeps popping up in my calls with our revenue management consulting clients. So today, I want to share a few bold, practical ideas straight from the trenches. Ideas that break the cycle and keep you from playing the same old tune as every other hotelier.
Stop Dropping the Ball on Corporate Bookers
Onboarding isn’t just for employees; it’s for your corporate bookers, too. The number one mistake I see hotel salespeople make is going silent the moment the contract is signed. That’s not just wrong, it can cost you room nights, or worse, the entire account. All those hours spent on calls and meetings to acquire them, you just lost.
I always preach: keep the communication alive, and make it personal. No automated emails. Call them. Invite them for a coffee. Show them what’s new at your property. If they’re too far away, jump on a quick video call. I have seen that getting face-to-face with them makes a huge difference.
Here’s a practical example: let’s say you turned that unused corner of your lobby into a multifunctional coworking space, complete with exactly what corporate guests love. Don’t let that go unnoticed. Show it to your corporate bookers. Make them feel the value.
The key is simple: never stop “selling” after the ink is dry.
Turn Guests into Brand Ambassadors
Your happiest guests are your best sales people. Encourage them to share their stay through user-generated content (UGC) such as photos, stories, or videos.
The more authentic, real, and relatable the post, the better.
Much better advertising than any glossy brochure.
How? An easy practical example: create a signature drink and make it complimentary when guests tag your hotel.
Finally Start Using Your Guest Data (Properly)
Hotels collect tons of guest data, but most of it sits idle so it’s time to put it to work.
Part 1 (gathering data): Get creative in how you collect it. Wi-Fi logins, online check-in forms, feedback surveys, or even small contests can give you valuable insights.
