When it comes to winning over travelers, it’s all about making your mark. Tapping into guest reviews and social media is a smart strategy that can set your property apart and drive direct bookings. This blog explores how accommodation providers can transform reviews into revenue by utilizing social media to drive direct bookings.
NB: This is an article from Staah
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Why Guest Reviews and Social Media Matter?
Think of guest reviews and social media as your secret weapons. Reviews enhance credibility, and social media maximizes your exposure. Combined, they can significantly increase your direct bookings.
Of course, direct bookings are a win-win for hoteliers. They eliminate third-party commissions, giving you full control over the guest experience. By effectively leveraging guest reviews and social media, you can attract more direct bookings, increase your revenue, and build lasting guest loyalty.
How Guest Reviews Work?
1) Encouraging Reviews
Collecting a robust volume of guest reviews is essential for credibility. Here are some tips to encourage guests to leave reviews:
- Post-Stay Emails: Send personalized emails to guests after their stay, requesting feedback and encouraging them to leave a review. Make it easy by including direct links to review platforms.
- Incentives: Offer incentives like discounts on future stays, complimentary services, or entries into a prize draw for guests who leave reviews.
- In-Room Reminders: Place reminders in guest rooms, such as tent cards or flyers, encouraging guests to share their experiences online.
- Staff Training: Train your staff to ask for reviews during checkout or at opportune moments during the guest’s stay, ensuring it feels natural and not forced.
2) Showcasing Reviews
Displaying guest reviews prominently can influence potential guests’ booking decisions. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Website Integration: Use tools like STAAH ReviewMinder to aggregate and display reviews on your website. Featuring these on your homepage and booking pages can convert visitors into bookers.
- Testimonials: Highlight specific positive reviews as testimonials on your website and social media platforms. Use real guest photos and names (with permission) to add authenticity.
- Email Marketing: Include snippets of positive reviews in your email newsletters to showcase guest satisfaction and encourage direct bookings.
3) Responding to Reviews
Engaging with guest reviews shows your commitment to customer satisfaction:
- Positive Reviews: Thank guests for their positive feedback and invite them to return, further nurturing loyalty. Personalize your responses to show genuine appreciation.
- Negative Reviews: Address any concerns raised in negative reviews professionally and offer solutions, demonstrating your dedication to improving guest experiences. Follow up if necessary to show continued care.
