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 | Sep 27, 2023 | Sales
In the highly competitive hospitality industry, building and retaining customer loyalty is crucial for the success of any hotel.
Creating exceptional guest experiences that leave a lasting impression is key to ensuring customers return, recommend your establishment to others, and become loyal patrons. Here are some inspirational strategies you can employ to reinforce customer loyalty and encourage repeat hotel stays:
Impeccable Service:
Exemplary customer service should be at the forefront of your hotel’s mission. Train your staff to go above and beyond, exceeding guests’ expectations at every opportunity. Remember, a smile, a warm welcome, and personalized attention can make all the difference.
Personalized Experiences:
Hoteliers can leverage customer data to tailor the guest experience based on individual preferences and past behavior. This could include personalized welcome messages, customized room amenities, or recommendations for nearby attractions based on guests’ interests. By making guests feel valued and understood, personalized experiences foster a sense of belonging and encourage them to choose your hotel for future stays.
Consistent Quality:
Consistency is crucial in earning customer trust and loyalty. Maintain high standards across all areas of your hotel, from cleanliness and comfort to food and beverage offerings. Strive for excellence consistently, without compromising on quality.
Enhanced Communication:
Foster open and transparent communication with your guests. Utilize technology to keep them informed about upcoming events, promotions, or any changes within the hotel. Regularly seeking feedback and genuinely listening to their suggestions can help build trust and improve their overall experience.
Memorable Experiences:
Create memorable moments that guests will cherish long after they leave your hotel. Whether you infuse your hotel with local culture and art or create spaces that provide for Instagrammable moments, offer experiences that go beyond the ordinary and create lasting memories for your guests.
Community Involvement:
Demonstrate your hotel’s commitment to social responsibility by engaging in community initiatives or supporting local causes. Guests appreciate establishments that actively give back to society, and this connection can foster a sense of pride and loyalty towards your brand.
Remember, customer loyalty is built on trust, exceptional service, and memorable experiences. By implementing these strategies with an inspirational mindset, you can strengthen customer loyalty, encourage repeat stays, and ensure your hotel becomes the top choice for all travelers.
by Jana Johnson | Jul 27, 2023 | Sales
Whether you run a franchised hotel, boutique property, or resort, summer is typically the busy season.
But lurking behind every summer comes a slow period, a time when your sales team is scrambling for ways to fill rooms.
As a hotelier or general manager, you understand the challenges of low occupancy during slow months.
However, there are several innovative strategies you can employ to boost your hotel sales during these periods. In this blog post, we will explore some effective techniques that will not only attract more guests but also increase revenue.
Enhance Your Online Presence
In today’s digital age, it is crucial to have a strong online presence to compete in the hospitality industry. Optimize your hotel’s website with relevant keywords and target local SEO to attract potential guests in your area. Create engaging and informative content on your website’s blog to showcase the unique features and services your hotel offers. Utilize social media platforms to engage with your target audience, share exciting promotions, and encourage user-generated content through contests or giveaways.
Offer Exclusive Packages and Deals
Entice guests during slow months by offering exclusive packages and deals. Create themed packages, such as “Romantic Getaway” or “Family Fun,” that include added value offerings like complimentary breakfast, spa credits, or discounted rates for nearby attractions. Promote these packages through your website, social media channels, and third-party booking sites to reach a wider audience. Highlight the benefits of booking directly with your hotel, such as guaranteed best rates or additional perks.
Collaborate with Local Businesses
Establish partnerships with local businesses to create mutually beneficial arrangements. For example, collaborate with popular restaurants to offer special discounts or vouchers to their patrons, encouraging them to stay at your hotel after enjoying a meal. Similarly, collaborate with local tour operators or event organizers to provide package deals that combine accommodation and experiences. This cross-promotion will not only drive more bookings but also support the local community.
Leverage Email Marketing
Harness the power of email marketing to stay connected with your past and potential guests. Build a reliable email database by offering incentives for visitors to subscribe, such as exclusive discounts or access to insider tips about local attractions. Send personalized promotional emails highlighting upcoming events, limited-time offers, and special packages tailored to your recipients’ preferences. Utilize eye-catching visuals and compelling copy to entice recipients to click through and make a reservation.
Reinforce Customer Loyalty
Nurture your existing customer base during slow months by focusing on customer loyalty. Offer rewards programs that provide incentives for repeat stays, such as complimentary upgrades, late check-outs, or priority reservations. Provide personalized experiences for returning guests, like welcome back amenities or customized itineraries based on their previous preferences. Encourage guests to leave positive reviews on popular review sites, as positive word-of-mouth referrals can significantly impact future bookings.
Conclusion
With the right strategies in place, you can effectively boost your hotel sales during slow months. Enhance your online presence, offer enticing packages, collaborate with local businesses, leverage email marketing, and reinforce customer loyalty. By implementing these techniques, you can attract more guests, increase occupancy rates, and maximize revenue even during traditionally quiet periods.
by Jana Johnson | Jun 29, 2023 | Marketing, Sales
As a hotel owner, you know the importance of marketing your property to attract visitors. But have you considered looking beyond traditional methods and focusing on your local community?
By getting to know your neighbors, you can create lasting relationships that will not only benefit your hotel but also boost the local economy. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to market in your backyard and why it’s important.
Why Local Marketing Matters
Marketing your hotel locally is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it allows you to build meaningful relationships with members of your community, who are more likely to recommend your hotel to friends and family. Secondly, it’s cost-effective since you don’t need to spend money on expensive advertising campaigns. And finally, it helps strengthen the local economy by encouraging people to stay, shop, and eat within the area.
Strategies for Marketing Locally
Here are some effective strategies for marketing your hotel in your backyard:
Host Local Events
Hosting events is an excellent way to get your hotel noticed within the community. You could organize a charity fundraiser, a wine tasting, or even a community clean-up day. By collaborating with other local businesses, you can promote your event to a wider audience and create partnerships that benefit everyone involved.
Leverage Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for promoting your hotel locally. Ensure your hotel’s social media profiles are up-to-date and active, and engage with other local businesses and customers. You could also consider running social media contests or giveaways to encourage people to share your content and visit your hotel.
Collaborate with Local Businesses
By partnering with other local businesses, you can cross-promote each other and create a network of support. For example, organize a team sales blitz and go door-to-door with printed flyers of your hotel that outline your specific features and benefits. Mention the idea of cross-marketing services to the local businesses. You could offer discounts to customers who have visited a nearby restaurant or store, share coupons for display, or collaborate on a joint marketing campaign.
Marketing your hotel locally is an effective way to build meaningful relationships with members of your community, boost the local economy, and attract visitors. By hosting events, leveraging social media, and collaborating with local businesses, you can create a powerful network that benefits everyone involved.
by Jana Johnson | May 31, 2023 | Sales
Most hotel sales success stories are based on techniques that include the close in the sales strategy from the start.
To seal the deal for group and corporate bookings, you’ll want to make sure during the sales process you provide good advice, add value, and utilize your hotel’s unique amenities and services.
Solidifying the following strategies will help you generate revenue, and make your client feel like they are cared for from the first point of contact until the contract is signed.
Personalize Each Pitch.
Prospects receive many calls and emails each week from hotel sales managers just like yourself. Quality communications that speak directly to the meeting planner’s needs will get the most attention. It’s likely you’ve qualified the client before reaching out to determine that they are your ideal guest. Maybe you’ve determined they hold events that would often require rooms for out-of-area travelers. If so, your initial email shall include information related to the events and event dates that will show that you’ve done your research and that you have a basic understanding of their needs.
Showcase Your Hotel’s Uniqueness.
You can count on the fact that event planners and travel managers are seeing many pitches each week. After awhile they may start to sound the same. That’s why it’s critical to stand out providing your hotel’s unique selling points that revolve around location, comfort, and value.
Be sure to provide the benefits with that first communication to grab their attention and show that you can meet their needs. Is your hotel located within close proximity to an airport, restaurants, or sporting venue? Paint a picture of what it would look like and how convenient it would be for their guests to stay with you.
Every guest is looking for comfort. Business travelers often need access to free Wi-Fi or a business center. Or maybe it’s a fitness center where guests can unwind after a stressful day at work. Whatever your idea of comfort is will also resonate with your guests. Be sure to incorporate these selling points into your pitch.
Adding value and saving your potential guests money, can be extremely desirable for large groups. Consider the value your hotel can bring to their group, whether it’s complimentary breakfast or shuttle service, your guests would like to hear about it.
Provide a Vision of Your Staff’s Customer Service.
A group is typically interested in more than just rooms or a meeting room. They are interested in the customer-focused culture you offer at your hotel and that starts with the first communication made by you.
Other hotels may have amenities you don’t offer, for example, an on-site restaurant, but you can demonstrate the high level of service you offer in other ways. Maybe your hotel has a rewards program you can offer for booking a large group. Other ideas to consider are accommodating a cancelation polity or providing a complimentary room based on a minimum number of paid guest rooms.
Lock in that group booking with electronic contracts that will enable your hotel to secure a signature quickly and easily. Showing how you can offer the best customer service through the booking process is a savvy way to let them experience how you will take care of their guests at check-in and beyond.
Keep an Eye on the Competition.
With many competitor hotels, it sometimes happens that the competition outshines you. Experienced hotel sales managers will want to know what competitor hotels are offering and how they may be snagging business from your hotel.
How do they position their offers? What concessions are they offering in their proposals? Understanding your competitors can help you better position your hotel to achieve your group revenue and room night goals.
Inform and Assist.
Overall, meeting planners want to work with a hotel that understands their goals and can help them meet those goals.
Respond quickly to questions and inquiries and include detailed information keeping the process as uncomplicated as possible. You want them to be able to visualize the experience for their guests. Reiterate the amenities you offer, including all complimentary services and even guest room layouts or floor plans so they can be confident and honored to be partnering with your hotel.
