Picture this: It’s 9 AM, your future guest is coffee in hand, scrolling through their phone. A new email arrives – yet another promotional offer lost in a sea of unread messages.
NB: This is an article from Chatlyn, one of our Expert Partners
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But a WhatsApp message? Now that is something they’ll actually read.
Welcome to the world of Hotel WhatsApp Marketing, the alternative to Hotel Email Marketing, where high open rates, interactive messaging, and real-time engagement give you a direct line to your guests. If you’re tired of low email open rates and clunky hotel apps nobody downloads, keep reading. We’ll show you why WhatsApp is a game-changer and share proven tactics to ensure your messages truly resonate.
1. Why WhatsApp Beats Email (Almost) Every Time
Near-Instant Open Rates
• Email: ~21% open rate (if you’re lucky).
• WhatsApp: Up to a 98% open rate!
Guests check WhatsApp Newsletter far more often than email. Perfect if you want to tease a last-minute deal or confirm an upcoming booking without it sitting unread.
A More Personal Connection
WhatsApp feels like a chat with friends, not a corporate newsletter. Guests see your texts as a helpful heads-up, not an automated sales pitch. This friendly tone goes a long way in creating a positive impression.
Global Reach, Simple Opt-Out
From New York to New Delhi, WhatsApp has billions of users worldwide. Guests can unsubscribe by replying “STOP,” keeping your marketing GDPR-compliant and reassuring them they’re in control.
2. Setting the Stage: Key Moments to Use WhatsApp
Pre-Arrival
• Send a welcome message with check-in details or optional upgrades (“We’d love to spoil you—interested?”).
• Offer a special room or spa upgrade. A short “Want a serene ocean view?” goes a long way.
During the Stay
• Let guests message you for extra towels or questions—no phone calls required!
• Highlight daily events (“Tonight’s rooftop jazz starts at 8 PM!”).
Post-Departure
• Request feedback or ask for a review (“How was your stay? Let us know!”).
• Send a loyalty discount for their next trip (“Book again within 30 days and enjoy 15% off!”).
3. Best Practices to Master Hotel WhatsApp Marketing
Keep It Short & Valuable
Nobody wants to read a 500-word essay on WhatsApp. Give the essential info plus a clear call to action.
“Hey [Name]! Miss the ocean view already? Book again within 30 days and snag 15% off. Tap below!”
Add Some Personality
Use emojis sparingly and maintain a friendly tone. You’re not just promoting a hotel; you’re building a human connection.
“Hola [Name]! Ready for a siesta by the pool? We saved your spot!”
Respect Opt-Outs
Let guests know they can unsubscribe anytime by replying “STOP.” This keeps your audience genuinely interested.
Timing Is Everything
Don’t message at 2 AM unless it’s urgent. Aim for morning or early evening when people typically check their phones.
Personalize Where Possible
Guests who loved the spa want to know about the new treatments. Business travelers might appreciate meeting room details. Tailor each campaign to what matters to them.
