The hotel industry is a notoriously difficult business. Why? Because of the sheer number of corporate giants in the sector. The likes of Hilton, Premier Inn, and Travelodge dominate the industry. Their ability to work on a mass scale means they can cut down prices that smaller hotels can’t compete with. So, how exactly do you create a successful hotel business in this environment? The answer is finding a unique and quality proposition. Here’s how you make that happen.
Location – The location of your hotel is one of the biggest factors in its success. When choosing a hotel, customers are looking for access to local amenities. They want something in the centre of town with easy transport links. They’re looking for access to tourist spots, ideally within walking distance. The location of your hotel is a key selling point, so make sure you get this right.
Customer service – Hotels are at the heart of the hospitality industry. In your hotel, the customer must always come first. Remember, the customer is always right! If they’re happy, they’ll leave positive reviews, and they’ll recommend you to their friends. During their stay, their happiness is your number one priority. Your staff must be polite and helpful. The hotel must be clean and respectable. Every little thing contributes to the overall customer service.
The little things – We all know that hotels ought to be clean, tidy, and organized. But, it’s the little things that really make the experience special. It’s the little things that make your guests smile, and make sure they remember you. We’re talking about hotel bathrobes by Richard Haworth, and complimentary slippers. A hair-dryer in the bedroom, and excellent coffee-making facilities. These little things bring character to the hotel, and put a smile on your customers’ faces.
Budget and planning – Running a hotel means keeping a sharp eye on the finances. There are a lot of overheads and costs involved in hospitality. Everything from food to cleaning to maintenance will add up quickly. Not to mention the enormous payroll costs. That’s why it’s so important to balance that with strong, regular income. To make sure these all match up, you’ll need to be very strict about your budget and future planning. You’ll need to think about digital marketing to promote the hotel, and fill the rooms! Make sure your bookkeeping is up to scratch, and always keep a contingency plan in mind.
Organization – Your hotel needs to work like a slick, well-oiled machine. Remember, you’re playing host to potentially hundreds of guests. Each need to check in and check out on time. You’ve then got to clean the rooms, and turn them around for the next guest. If you’re providing food, then there’s the added organization of hospitality to manage at breakfast and dinner. Lastly, you’ve got to maintain a strong organization for booking and managing future guests. It’s a tricky, complicated system. It requires sharp planning, and excellent organization skills!
If you get it right, your hotel will quickly become a money tree. With great service, and smart organization, your guests will love your hotel. Do you think you’ve got what it takes to run a successful hospitality business?
