We can probably all agree that the first prize in the accommodation property business is the returning guest who books directly. If a guest does that, it means he or she had a perfect stay, hopefully left a great review, and spread the word about your property to friends. So, how is it possible to wow guests this holiday season? Especially when you are likely to be rushed off your feet.
The small things leave a lasting impression, and make your accommodation stand out from others that travellers might have stayed at. We’ve come up with a list of the little extras that make a big difference and do get noticed by guests. And, they needn’t cost you a fortune.
Spend a night in each room.
That advice may sound odd, but before things get too busy, test your rooms yourself. How’s the room temperature? Are there enough plugs and adaptors for all kinds of devices? Has a lamp’s light bulb blown? Is there a strange noise in the pipes at 3 am? These little things can make or break a night for a sometimes-weary traveller, and your review may not be as glowing as you hoped.
Offer free, fast Wi-Fi.
Travel surveys show repeatedly that Wi-Fi is one of the most important requirements for many people searching for accommodation online. And these days, most guests don’t expect to pay for Wi-Fi. Make it free, and make sure it’s fast.
Start the relationship before guests arrive.
A great idea is to email your guests a few days before they arrive to say hi and find out if there’s anything in particular they are interested in or may need. Perhaps you can put them in touch with a babysitting service before they ask you at the last minute. An email exchange beforehand means that it will be like welcoming back a returning guest by the time they get there.
Check in on your guests a few hours after arrival.
Sometimes guests are too shy to complain about something, but they’ll still register it as a fault in their minds. A quick check with them gives them the space to flag it and lets them know you’re there to fix it. And if they report something as broken, aim to fix it before they return that day – that’s good service!
Anticipate their needs
A choice of pillows, bottled water on the bedside table, delicious biscuits on the tea tray, and a few local restaurant menus (make sure they are up-to-date) will be noticed and remembered. If they are checking out early, pack a muffin and fresh juice that they can take with them. Let them know you’re available on WhatsApp during their stay – they may have a quick question you can answer in a heartbeat, and everyone wins.
Add a personal touch.
Treat your regular guests like VIPs. Make them feel appreciated with a discount that is offered only to them. Leave them a handwritten note to welcome them back again, and keep a record of their likes and dislikes – there’s nothing more impressive than someone remembering you prefer an espresso to a cappuccino.
The next few months are probably your busiest, but don’t let your guests feel like they are just another booking. To wow guests this holiday season, focus on the extra touches to ensure excellent reviews and give your guests a reason to return.
Photo by Joanna Kosinska on Unsplash