A hotel is a managed building or establishment that provides guests with lodgings on a short-term basis in exchange for money. There are a number of different hotel classification guidelines that vary across countries, but they all typically adhere to a similar standard in terms of room sizes and amenities.
While hotels provide a range of benefits to both travellers and the industry as a whole, there are also countless challenges that come with operating one. From managing guest expectations and maximizing revenue to maintaining quality and retaining staff, the hospitality industry has a lot on its plate.
Regardless of the size or scope of your property, it is important to understand how to differentiate your hotel from the competition. Differentiating your hotel allows you to capture the attention of travellers and ensure that it is a worthwhile booking decision for them. To do so, consider your target market and what kind of experience will most appeal to them. Tourists, for example, may require a basic, clean and quiet hotel in the heart of a city whereas business travellers are more likely to look for a suite with a large desk and high speed internet.
In addition, it is important to differentiate your hotel by highlighting the unique experiences and amenities you offer. For example, you can create a sense of luxury by offering unique in-room features such as a personal assistant or an in-room sauna. You can also enhance your reputation by featuring local artwork, partnering with artisanal brands or supporting social enterprise initiatives.
Another way to increase your hotel’s popularity is by promoting it on social media channels and through travel blogs. This can lead to an influx of new guests and a boost in your hotel’s overall star rating.
It is also essential to understand the value of customer feedback. Not only does this help you to improve your overall customer experience, but it also enables you to identify and address any issues that might be occurring at your hotel.
The hospitality industry is a fast-paced and competitive environment, so it’s crucial to keep up with the latest technology to stay ahead of the curve. Fortunately, there are many software solutions that can help you streamline your processes and enhance the customer experience. SiteMinder, for example, provides a robust platform that empowers hoteliers at every touchpoint of the guest journey. With its suite of hotel management tools, you can maximize visibility on all OTAs and your website while improving pricing strategy with real-time market data. Get started with SiteMinder today!