by Jana Johnson | Oct 8, 2024 | Sales
RFP Season for Hotels
It’s that time of year again – RFP season for hotels. This is when companies send out requests for proposals to secure business for the upcoming year. It’s a crucial period to lock in negotiated rates and to make sure your hotel is included in a company’s hotel program.
What is an RFP?
A hotel RFP (Request for Proposal) is a document that a company or organization sends to hotels to gather information about their services, pricing, and availability for an event, group stay or negotiated rate for a specific time period. The RFP typically includes details like:
- Hotel information
- Hotel amenities and services
- Standard rates
- Negotiated rates
Hotels respond with proposals outlining how they can meet the requirements, along with pricing and terms. This helps the organization compare options and choose the best fit for their needs.
RFP Platforms
When managing hotel RFPs (Request for Proposals), using the right platforms can streamline the process and ensure you get the best deals. Cvent is a popular option for cloud-based technology.
Cvent is a comprehensive event management platform that offers tools for sourcing venues, managing RFPs, and tracking responses. It’s widely used in the hospitality industry.
RFP Responses
Most RFP platforms let you create templates and pull profile information, making it easier to answer common questions.
Filling in details and submitting your bid is just the start. Here’s what you need to do:
- Gather information to help make this a smooth process.
- Include your hotel details like address, phone number, sales contact, property photos, distance from the airport, transportation options, meeting spaces, guest rooms, amenities, and more.
- Include all requested information.
- You can offer extra options to make your proposal more enticing.
- Add additional detail under “Comments” that help sell your hotel.
- A client may add custom question fields. Give this area special consideration because they may be dealbreakers for the client.
- Load rates as soon as possible upon acceptance to prevent booking gaps for accounts.
- Ensure RFPs are completed within the timelines provided by the agency.
Key Points to Remember
- Deadline: Make sure to submit your proposals on time. Missing a deadline can mean losing out on significant business.
- Customization: Tailor each proposal to the specific needs of the hotel. Highlight how your services can meet their unique requirements.
- Competitive Pricing: Offer competitive rates but ensure they are sustainable for your business and based on the forecasted production per the company.
- Follow-Up: After submitting the proposal, follow up to show your interest and answer any questions they might have.
If your RFP is successful and approved, the client will send you rate loading instructions. Typically, contracts are finalized prior to the end of the year to avoid issues and keep the booking process smooth.
by Jana Johnson | Aug 26, 2024 | Sales
Unlocking the Potential of Your Hotel’s Meeting Space
In the bustling world of hospitality, standing out from the competition is paramount. For hoteliers, one untapped avenue for revenue and reputation enhancement is their meeting space. But how does one transform these areas into sought-after venues for conferences, seminars, and corporate gatherings? This blog post will guide you through the process of effectively marketing and selling your hotel’s meeting space and to maximize its potential.
Crafting a Unique Selling Proposition
First impressions count. Start by identifying what makes your meeting space unique. Is it the state-of-the-art technology, the inspiring views, or the customizable catering options? Pinpoint these distinctive features and weave them into a compelling narrative. Remember, your goal is to create an experience, not just offer a room.
Leveraging Digital Marketing Strategies
The digital realm is your oyster when it comes to marketing. Optimize your hotel’s website with dedicated pages for your meeting spaces, complete with virtual tours and testimonials. Dive into the world of SEO by incorporating keywords such as “premium meeting spaces,” “business conference venues,” or “corporate event hosting” to climb the search engine ranks.
Building Partnerships and Networks
Don’t overlook the power of partnerships. Partnerships with local businesses and event planners can extend your reach and bring in new clientele who trust the recommendations of these partners. Forge relationships with local businesses and event planners; they can become ambassadors for your space. Offer incentives for repeat bookings or referrals to create a network that markets for you. It’s a great way to build credibility and fill your event calendar.
Utilizing Social Media Platforms
Social media is not just for vacation snaps; it’s a business tool. Showcase your meeting spaces in action on platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn. Use hashtags, live videos, and stories to engage potential clients and give them a taste of what you can offer.
Encouraging Reviews and Testimonials
Word-of-mouth still reigns supreme. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business and TripAdvisor. Positive experiences shared by real users are incredibly persuasive to prospective clients.
Offering Tailored Meeting Room Packages
One size does not fit all in the world of meetings and events. Create flexible package deals that cater to various needs and budgets. Whether it’s a small team-building session or a large-scale trade show, having tailored options will appeal to a broader audience.
Hosting Showcase Events
Let your space speak for itself by hosting showcase events. Invite local businesses, event planners, and the press to experience your facilities firsthand. A successful event can lead to immediate bookings and long-term relationships.
Measuring Success and Adapting
Finally, track your marketing efforts. Use analytics to understand what’s working and what isn’t. Be ready to adapt and refine your strategies based on real data. Continuous improvement is key to staying ahead in the competitive hotel industry.
Conclusion: Marketing Plan for Meeting Rooms
Marketing your hotel’s meeting space effectively requires creativity, strategy, and persistence. By highlighting your unique offerings, embracing digital marketing, building networks, engaging on social media, and fostering positive customer experiences, you can elevate your space to become a premier destination for events. Remember, it’s about creating memorable experiences that resonate with clients long after the meeting has ended.
by Jana Johnson | Jun 27, 2024 | Sales
In the bustling world of hospitality, standing out from the crowd is paramount.
Crafting Your Hotel’s Unique Selling Proposition
As a new hotel owner, your first step is to carve out a unique selling proposition (USP) that distinguishes your establishment from the rest. Is it the bespoke concierge service, the fusion cuisine at your in-house restaurant, or perhaps the tech-savvy rooms tailored for the modern traveler? Pinpoint what makes your hotel a cut above the rest and let that drive your sales narrative.
Understanding Your Market Segment
Who are you inviting into the cozy embrace of your hotel? Families seeking adventure, business travelers looking for efficiency, or couples on a romantic getaway? Grasping the nuances of your target market segment allows you to tailor your marketing efforts effectively. Dive deep into their preferences, peak travel times, and booking habits. Remember, a well-aimed arrow hits the mark.
Digital Marketing: Your Online Presence
The digital realm is non-negotiable territory. Ensure your website is not just a digital brochure but a portal that encapsulates the essence of your hospitality. Invest in search engine optimization (SEO) to climb the ranks in search results. Engage with guests through social media platforms—showcase your hotel’s ambiance, share glowing testimonials, and create shareable content that resonates with your audience.
Building Relationships with Booking Agents and Travel Platforms
It’s not what you know, but who you know. Forge strong relationships with booking agents and online travel agencies (OTAs). They can catapult your visibility to potential guests far and wide. Offer competitive rates, provide them with high-quality images and detailed information about your property, and keep communication lines open. A symbiotic relationship with these gatekeepers can be a goldmine for referrals and bookings.
Leveraging Customer Feedback for Growth
Listen up; your guests have something to say. Customer feedback is a treasure trove of insights. Encourage reviews and take the time to respond to them, whether they sing praises or offer constructive criticism. Use this feedback to refine your services and rectify any shortcomings. A hotel that grows and improves based on its guests’ experiences is a hotel that understands the heartbeat of its business.
Training Your Team for Excellence
Your staff are the ambassadors of your brand. Equip your team with the training and tools they need to deliver exceptional service. From the front desk to housekeeping, every interaction is an opportunity to make a lasting impression. When your staff excels, they not only enhance guest experience but also become instrumental in driving repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations.
Conclusion: The Journey to Success
Embarking on the journey as a new hotel owner is thrilling yet daunting. Remember, the foundation of hotel sales lies in understanding your unique value, knowing your audience, embracing the digital landscape, nurturing industry relationships, valuing customer feedback, and fostering a culture of excellence among your team. With these strategies in place, you’re well on your way to writing your own success story in the world of hospitality.
by Jana Johnson | May 28, 2024 | Sales
Navigating the maze of group hotel business pricing can be as intricate as a game of chess.
Each move you make impacts your revenue, reputation, and relationships with clients. In an industry where one size most certainly does not fit all, hoteliers and general managers must master the art of crafting flexible yet profitable pricing strategies. This blog post will delve into the nuances of setting rates that not only attract groups but also bolster your bottom line.
Understanding Your Market and Competition
Before you jot down any numbers, it’s crucial to gauge the pulse of the market. Take a magnifying glass to the demographics of your clientele and analyze what your competitors are up to. Are they offering discounts for early bookings? What amenities do they throw into the mix to sweeten the deal? Remember, knowledge is power, and in the realm of group hotel business pricing, it’s the cornerstone of strategic decision-making.
Conducting a Competitive Analysis
- Examine rate structures: Peek at how rivals structure their group rates.
- Identify unique selling propositions (USPs): Pinpoint what sets your property apart.
- Monitor demand patterns: Keep an eye on peak and off-peak seasons.
Crafting Tailored Pricing Packages
One-size-fits-all is a myth in group hotel pricing. Instead, think tailor-made suits—adjust each package to fit the client’s needs like a glove. Whether it’s corporate retreats or wedding parties, each group comes with its own set of expectations and budget constraints. It’s about striking a balance between customization and profitability.
Balancing Flexibility with Revenue Management
- Dynamic pricing models: Adjust rates based on demand and booking lead time.
- Value-added services: Enhance packages with services that cost little but add significant perceived value.
- Cancellation policies: Craft policies that protect your revenue while offering reasonable flexibility.
Leveraging Technology for Smarter Pricing
In an era where technology reigns supreme, leveraging cutting-edge tools can give you a leg-up in the pricing game. Sophisticated software can crunch numbers and predict trends, giving you insights that inform smarter pricing decisions. These digital allies help ensure that your pricing strategy isn’t just a shot in the dark but a well-informed move on the chessboard.
Implementing Revenue Management Systems
- Forecasting tools: Use predictive analytics to anticipate market behavior.
- Real-time data: Stay updated with the latest market trends and adjust your strategy accordingly.
- Automation: Streamline the pricing process to save time and reduce errors.
Conclusion: The Art of Pricing Group Hotel Business
Mastering the art of pricing for group hotel business is like conducting a symphony; every element must harmonize to create a masterpiece. It requires a blend of market insight, customization, and technological prowess. With these strategies in hand, you’re well-equipped to compose pricing that hits the right notes, ensuring your establishment remains the venue of choice for group bookings.
Final Thoughts
Remember, the goal is to design a pricing strategy that resonates with your audience and secures your hotel’s financial health. By staying attuned to the market, personalizing offers, and embracing technology, you can fine-tune your approach to pricing, transforming potential guests into loyal patrons.
by Jana Johnson | Apr 30, 2024 | Marketing
Pre Arrival Email for Hotel Guests: Crafting the Perfect Subject Line
First impressions count, and in the world of email marketing, your subject line is the handshake that can make or break guest engagement. Aim for a blend of curiosity and clarity that entices recipients to open the email. Think along the lines of “Enhance Your Stay with Exclusive Offers Just for You!” This approach is personal, direct, and promises value—a trifecta for high open rates.
Hotel Email Marketing Best Practices: Personalizing the Greeting
A touch of personalization goes a long way. Addressing your guest by name sets a warm, inviting tone right off the bat. It shows you’re not just pushing out generic promotions but rather offering a tailored experience. “Dear Guest Name,” might be simple, but it’s effective. It’s the digital equivalent of recognizing a returning guest at the front desk.
Crafting Compelling Content
The body of your email should be where the magic happens. Here’s where you need to shine, showcasing the additional services and experiences your hotel offers. Structure your content to guide the reader through a narrative—start with what they’ll gain from these added luxuries. Perhaps it’s a serene spa package or a gourmet dining experience. It could also be as simple as a late check out, or small a room on a higher floor away from the elevators. Use vivid imagery and evocative language to paint a picture that’s too tempting to resist.
Highlighting Exclusive Offers
Let’s face it, everyone loves feeling like an insider. Highlight exclusive deals that are available only through this email. Whether it’s a room upgrade at a special rate or a complimentary bottle of champagne, make it clear that these offers enhance their upcoming stay in ways that are both unique and valuable.
Creating a Seamless Call-to-Action
Your call-to-action (CTA) isn’t just a button or a link; it’s the climax of your upsell email. It should be bold, clear, and impossible to overlook. Phrases like “Claim Your Exclusive Offer” or “Upgrade Your Experience Now” paired with a standout button will drive conversions. Ensure the booking process is straightforward, so guests can take advantage of the offer with minimal clicks.
Setting the Right Tone and Style
Your email’s tone should mirror the hospitality your hotel is known for. It needs to be friendly, professional, and reassuring. Use language that conveys excitement without being overbearing. Remember, you’re extending an invitation, not issuing a command. The style should reflect the elegance or uniqueness of your property, reinforcing your brand with every word.
Testing and Optimizing
Before hitting send, test your email on various devices to ensure formatting remains pristine. Testing different elements like subject lines, images, and CTAs can provide insights into what resonates best with your audience. Continuously refine your approach based on guest feedback and interaction data.
Conclusion: The Game-Changer for Personalized Guest Experiences
An effective pre-stay upsell email can significantly enhance both your guest’s experience and your hotel’s revenue. By crafting a personalized, engaging, and visually appealing message, you’re not just selling a service—you’re elevating the entire stay. Keep refining your strategy and watch as those pre-arrival emails transform into a powerful tool for guest satisfaction and loyalty.
by Jana Johnson | Mar 19, 2024 | Sales
In the bustling world of hospitality, standing out to attract more group business can be a game-changer for your hotel’s revenue and reputation.
While large groups and conferences often take the spotlight, there’s untapped potential in targeting smaller, more intimate gatherings. By offering tailored experiences and personalized services, you can create a unique value proposition that resonates with small corporate retreats, family reunions, and special interest groups.
Collaborative Growth: Working with Larger Hotels
Sometimes, thinking outside your four walls can lead to expansive opportunities. Partnering with larger hotels that may not have the bandwidth to accommodate all their inquiries can be mutually beneficial. Establish a referral system where you become the go-to option for overflow group business. This strategy not only broadens your network but also positions your hotel as a collaborative player in the competitive hospitality landscape.
Incentivizing Group Stays: Offer Special Rates for Groups
Everyone loves a good deal, especially when planning group travel. Introducing exclusive rates for group bookings is a powerful incentive that can steer decision-makers in your direction. Whether it’s a percentage off, complimentary amenities, or loyalty points, these perks can significantly influence the booking process. Remember, a group saved is a multitude of individual guests earned.
The Power of Connectivity: Leveraging GDS for Group Business
Global Distribution Systems (GDS) are the superhighways connecting travel bookers with hotels worldwide. Ensuring your hotel is visible and bookable on these platforms is crucial. Tailor your GDS listings to highlight your group-friendly amenities and services. This not only increases your exposure but also signals to travel professionals that your establishment is equipped to handle their clients’ group needs.
Crafting a Group-Friendly Image
Attracting more group business requires a blend of strategic positioning, enticing offers, and robust connectivity. By focusing on smaller groups, collaborating with industry peers, crafting irresistible group rates, and maximizing GDS presence, your hotel can thrive in this lucrative market segment. Remember, each group experience is a story told, and positive word-of-mouth can amplify your hotel’s appeal exponentially.
by Jana Johnson | Feb 13, 2024 | Sales
Your hotel’s success depends on many things, but a solid strategy and execution of sales, will create awareness and uncover opportunities capturing your fair share of sales in the market.
Having a full-time on-site salesperson is ideal for carrying out the strategy, but not always manageable for hotels. Another consideration is hiring a remote hotel sales team, which has become the keystone of modern business operations for hotels.
Allowing the remote sales team to foster leads, prospect, negotiate, and build relationships affords you the ability to focus on your guests and the operations side of the business. A seasoned remote sales service team can tailor services to fit your needs with the following focus in place:
New Business Development
Prospecting calls are a proactive strategy to uncover new business opportunities by directly engaging with potential leads. Effective calls hinge on thorough research, a clear value proposition, and personalized communication to convert prospects into clients. There’s an art to dealing with objections and it takes time and persistence to call clients and close business. A remote sales team can work on prospecting and uncovering new business via email marketing campaigns to target meeting planners, corporate contacts, and group business.
Respond to RFPs and Sales Leads
Identifying leads and responding timely is essential in today’s hospitality market, but this takes a bit of legwork. An experienced team can add value by tailoring responses to RFPs and focusing on the nuances of every RFP on your behalf.
Building and Maintaining Relationships
Your hotel staff may be savvy at guest management, but not everyone is cut out for sales. When hiring a team of remote hotel sales professionals, you can be assured they know about building relationships and how to cultivate those relationships over time. This is key to bookings and profits over time.
Marketing Collateral Development
Marketing your hotel is part of the package when it comes to showcasing the unique offerings of your hotel. With your approval, a remote sales team can develop sales material including presentations, flyers to outline special promotions and amenities that will lead to future bookings.
Don’t Let Leads Fall Through the Cracks
A dedicated sales team will prevent leads from falling through the cracks by utilizing a database and implementing a robust follow-up system. With a team devoted to selling, they can prioritize the most valuable leads, respond quickly, and ultimately land the business.
Whether it’s long-term or short-term sales assistance you are looking for, utilizing a remote sales service team with proven and efficient systems along with a collaborative communication process provides an affordable way for you to manage your hotel sales and increase revenue opportunities.
by Jana Johnson | Dec 21, 2023 | Sales, Travel
As we say goodbye to another year, it’s time for forward-thinking hoteliers to capitalize on emerging trends.
Enter the staycation; a simple yet significant opportunity that’s always a winner for New Year’s Eve. It’s a celebration of local exploration and in-house vacations that allow guests to revel in their home city’s charm while enjoying your hotel’s unique hospitality.
Understanding the Staycation Movement
Staycations are decidedly high on nostalgia but also incredibly suitable for the digital age. They offer the triple threat advantage of affordability, convenience, and minimizing travel-related stress. With shifting post-pandemic norms and heightened desires for safety, staycations serve as the perfect answer for those seeking a leisurely escape close to home.
Transforming Spaces into Experiences
Holidaymakers today look beyond the traditional. They seek experiences, not just an overnight stay. An empty rooftop? Morph it into a merry countdown party. A quiet lounge? Spruce it up with live local music for New Year’s Eve. Offer exclusive packages encompassing meals and events – adding irresistible value to the staycation trend.
Amplifying your Reach with SEO
While crafting your new strategy, don’t overlook the power of Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Ensure your website and promotional content integrate relevant staycation-related keywords. This will allow you to attract potential customers from your locality seeking a convenient NYE getaway.
Collaborating Locally for Bigger Impact
Build connections within your community by partnering with local businesses. From restaurants and tourist hotspots to activity centers, these collaborations can accentuate your staycation offerings. Moreover, it strengthens your community ties and adds a dash of local flavor to your services.
Conclusion: Embracing the Staycation Symphony
The staycation trend is not just a fad; it’s a movement reflecting evolving consumer behavior. As we stand on the brink of a New Year, it’s time to adapt, innovate, and incorporate this trend into your grand scheme. Remember, it’s all about creating memorable experiences while brandishing your hotel’s unique attributes.
by Jana Johnson | Nov 28, 2023 | Marketing
In today’s competitive hospitality industry, it is crucial for hotels to find creative and effective ways to market their meeting spaces.
As a hotelier or general manager, you understand the importance of maximizing revenue by attracting meetings and events to your property. In this post, we will discuss some proven strategies to effectively market your hotel’s meeting space and increase bookings.
Showcase Your Unique Selling Points
When marketing your hotel’s meeting space, it is essential to highlight its unique selling points. What makes your meeting space stand out from the competition? Is it a stunning view, state-of-the-art technology, or versatile room layouts? Communicate these features and benefits clearly to potential clients through various channels, such as your website, social media platforms, and promotional materials.
Utilize Compelling Visuals
A picture is worth a thousand words, especially when it comes to marketing your hotel’s meeting space. Invest in professional photography and videography to capture the beauty and functionality of your meeting rooms. Use these visuals on your website, online listings, and social media to entice potential clients. Remember, compelling visuals can leave a lasting impression and make your meeting space more appealing
Leverage Online Platforms
To reach a broader audience and attract meeting planners searching for venues, leverage online platforms dedicated to event planning. Create detailed profiles on popular websites such as Cvent, Loopio, and ConventionPlanit.com. Optimize your listings with relevant keywords and captivating descriptions. Additionally, actively engage with customer reviews and respond promptly to inquiries to build credibility and trust.Develop Partnerships
Collaborating with local businesses and organizations can greatly enhance your marketing efforts. Identify complementary businesses, such as event planners, caterers, or team-building organizations, and establish mutually beneficial partnerships. By referring clients to each other and co-promoting events, you can tap into each other’s networks and attract more bookings for your meeting space.
Offer Special Promotions and Packages
Everyone loves a good deal! Create special promotions and packages specifically tailored to meetings and events. Consider offering discounted rates, complimentary upgrades, or bundled services. These incentives not only attract potential clients but also encourage repeat business and referrals. Clearly communicate the value of these promotions through your website, email marketing, and social media channels.
Provide Exceptional Customer Service
Word-of-mouth marketing is incredibly powerful, especially in the hospitality industry. Ensure that your staff delivers exceptional customer service at every touchpoint. From the initial inquiry to the actual event, make sure your guests feel valued and well taken care of. Happy clients are more likely to share their positive experiences with others, which can lead to an increase in bookings for your meeting space.
Testimonials Endorsements Showcase the Quality of Service
Testimonials are a powerful tool to showcase the successful experiences of past guests at your hotel meetings. Including testimonials in your marketing materials such as flyers or your website, allows you to highlight specific aspects that previous guests found exceptional. Whether it’s the professionalism of your staff, the venue options, or the seamless event coordination, testimonials can highlight these key selling points and provide proof that your hotel is a reliable and trustworthy choice for hosting events.
Conclusion
Marketing your hotel’s meeting space requires a strategic and creative approach. By showcasing unique selling points, utilizing compelling visuals, leveraging online platforms, developing partnerships, offering special promotions, and providing exceptional customer service, you can effectively market your meeting space and attract more bookings. Remember, consistency and innovation are key in staying ahead in the competitive hospitality industry.
by Jana Johnson | Nov 16, 2023 | Marketing
The holiday season is a lucrative time for hoteliers to boost their sales and attract more guests.
With people planning vacations, family gatherings, and festive celebrations, it’s essential to capitalize on this opportunity. By implementing effective strategies and taking advantage of the holiday spirit, you can maximize your hotel sales and make the most out of this holiday season.
Create Irresistible Holiday Packages
When it comes to planning their vacation during the holidays, guests are looking for convenience and value. By creating irresistible holiday packages, you can meet their needs while also boosting your sales. Promote special amenities such as complimentary breakfast, or even discounted tickets to local attractions. This not only adds value for your guests but also differentiates your hotel from competitors in the market.
Decorate and Create a Festive Atmosphere
During the holiday season, people are drawn to places that exude warmth, coziness, and festive spirit. Transform your hotel into a winter wonderland by decorating with beautiful lights, wreaths, and ornaments. Play cheerful holiday music in the lobby, add holiday scents of aromatherapy, and offer seasonal treats like hot chocolate and gingerbread cookies. Creating a festive atmosphere will not only attract more guests but also encourage them to spend more time at your hotel, increasing opportunities for additional sales.
Engage with Your Guests on Social Media
As the holiday season approaches, social media becomes a powerful tool for connecting with potential guests. Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to showcase your hotel’s holiday offerings and engage with your audience. Share captivating visuals of your decorated property, promote your holiday packages, and run contests or giveaways to generate excitement. By actively participating in social media conversations, you can increase brand awareness, build relationships with potential guests, and ultimately drive more bookings.
Offer Promotions and Special Discounts
Everyone loves a good deal, especially during the holidays when expenses tend to pile up. Attract budget-conscious travelers and increase occupancy rates by offering holiday discounts or promotions. Create time-limited offers, such as “Early Bird Specials” or “Last-Minute Deals,” and promote them across your marketing channels. Make sure to highlight the savings guests will enjoy by booking with your hotel during the holiday season.
Collaborate with Local Businesses
The holidays are all about community and collaboration. Partnering with local businesses can provide unique opportunities to increase your hotel sales. Consider joint promotional campaigns, where you offer exclusive discounts or incentives to customers of partnering businesses. For example, you could collaborate with a nearby restaurant to offer a special holiday dining experience for your guests. By leveraging each other’s customer bases, you can expand your reach and generate more bookings.
Conclusion
With some strategic planning and creative thinking, you can significantly increase hotel sales during the holiday season. From creating enticing holiday packages to engaging with your audience on social media, there are numerous tactics at your disposal. Remember to keep the festive spirit alive throughout your property and always strive to provide exceptional guest experiences. Embrace the holidays and watch your hotel thrive!
