Top 3 Hotel promotion ideas to Increase Bookings
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In the highly competitive world of hospitality, every property — big or small — needs a strategy to stand out. This is particularly true for smaller properties that may not have the same resources as larger competitors but still need to attract guests and increase bookings.
In this blog post, we delve into the importance of implementing creative and effective promotional strategies tailored specifically for small properties. Whether you’re a seasoned hotelier or a budding entrepreneur in the hospitality industry, this post is packed with insights that can help you take your property to new heights.
Top Promotion Ideas to Try at Your Small Property
Seasonal Promotions
These are offers that are tailored to specific seasons or holidays, providing a unique selling point that can set your property apart from the competition.
- Spring Break Specials: As winter melts away and spring blooms, many families and students look for getaways during the spring break. Offering discounted rates or packages tailored to these groups can attract bookings. For example, you could offer a ‘Spring Adventure’ package that includes local hiking tours or a ‘Cultural Explorer’ package that includes tickets to nearby museums or historical sites.
- Summer Getaway Deals: Summer is synonymous with vacations. Capitalize on this by offering summer-specific promotions. This could include a ‘Beach Bonanza’ deal for properties near the coast or a ‘Summer Sizzler’ package that includes a BBQ dinner and pool access.
- Autumn Retreats: As the leaves change color and the weather cools, autumn can be a beautiful time of year to travel. Offering an ‘Autumn Escape’ package that includes cozy amenities like hot cocoa by the fireplace or guided foliage tours can attract guests looking for a peaceful retreat.
Myrtle Beach Vacation Packages offer an ideal blend of fun and relaxation for families. These packages are unique in that they include unlimited access to a variety of water amenities at the resort, ensuring every day is filled with new adventures. Coupled with comfortable accommodations and stunning beachfront views, these packages provide a comprehensive holiday experience that showcases the diverse appeal of Myrtle Beach as a vacation destination.
Themed Promotions
Another creative way to attract guests to your property is through themed promotions. These are special offers or packages that revolve around a specific theme or event, providing a unique and immersive experience for your guests.
- Cultural Celebrations: Tie your promotions to local festivals or cultural events. For example, if your property is in a city known for its annual film festival, you could provide a ‘Cinema Lovers’ package that includes tickets to screenings or talks.
- Sports Events: If your location is hosting a major sports event, offer a themed package around it. This could include transportation to and from the event, a welcome gift related to the sport, or even a viewing party for guests who prefer to watch from the comfort of the hotel.
- Wellness Retreats: Wellness is a growing trend in hospitality. Offering a ‘Wellness Retreat’ package that features yoga classes, spa treatments, and healthy meals can attract guests looking for a rejuvenating break.
Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, a place where history meets mystery. Known for its illustrious past and stunning views, this hotel offers more than just a comfortable stay. It invites guests to step into an intriguing world with its Murder Mystery Weekend package.
Here, guests don’t just stay; they participate in an interactive game of mystery and murder. They become detectives, investigating crime scenes and uncovering clues throughout the weekend. This unique experience blends suspense, intrigue, and fun, making a stay at the Grand Hotel far more than a typical getaway—it’s an adventure waiting to be unraveled.
Partnership Promotions
This involves collaborating with local businesses or attractions to create joint promotions that provide added benefits to your guests.
- Local Attractions: Partner with local attractions such as museums, parks, or historical sites. Offer a package that includes admission tickets or guided tours. This will provide your guests with a ready-made itinerary and extra convenience.
- Food and Beverage Establishments: Collaborate with local restaurants, cafes, or wineries. You can offer dining discounts, tasting tours, or even themed meals that highlight local cuisine and produce.
Retail Outlets: Work with local shops or artisans to offer exclusive shopping discounts or unique souvenirs. This can add a personal touch to your guests’ stay and support local businesses.
The River Terrace Inn in Napa Valley is a prime example of a small hotel partnering with local wineries to offer guests an immersive wine country experience. This boutique hotel offers a package that includes accommodations for two nights, a three-hour epicurean adventure on the Napa Valley Wine Train’s Gourmet Experience, and a six-hour wine tasting tour.
Promote Your Small Hotel or B&B
Social Media Engagement
It’s an effective way to showcase your property, engage with potential guests, and build a loyal customer base.
- Showcase Your Property: Use high-quality images and videos to showcase your property. Highlight unique features, amenities, and the experiences that guests can expect during their stay.
- Engage with Your Audience: Social media is not just about broadcasting; it’s about engaging. Respond to comments, answer questions, and take into account the feedback you receive.
- Share User-Generated Content: Sharing content created by your guests, such as photos or reviews, can provide authentic testimonials and encourage others to share their experiences too.
- Collaborate with Influencers: Partnering with travel bloggers or influencers can help you reach a larger audience. Their content can provide a fresh perspective on your property and attract their followers.
Visual content is incredibly impactful on social media, particularly on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Regularly sharing attractive photos of your property and nearby attractions can draw attention and inspire people to book a stay.
- Property Photos: Share high-quality photos that highlight the charm and comfort of your hotel or B&B. Show off your best rooms, your dining areas, your gardens, or any other features that guests will enjoy.
- Nearby Attractions: If your property is near local attractions, share photos or videos showcasing these places. Highlight how close they are to your location and any partnerships you might have (like discounted tickets).
- Guest-Generated Content: If your guests share their own photos of their stay or nearby experiences, consider reposting them (with permission). This not only provides authentic visuals but also encourages other guests to share their own content.
Email Marketing Campaigns
It allows you to send targeted promotions and newsletters to subscribers who have already expressed an interest in your property.
- Offer Value: Encourage visitors to your website to sign up for your email list by offering something of value in return. This could be a discount on their first booking, a free guide to local attractions, or exclusive access to special offers.
- Send Regular Updates: Keep your subscribers engaged by sending regular email updates. These could include information about upcoming events, new additions to your property, or special promotions.
- Personalize Your Emails: Use the information you have about your subscribers to personalize your emails. This could involve addressing them by name, recommending specific packages based on their interests, or sending birthday or anniversary wishes.
One of the most effective ways to promote direct bookings is to offer exclusive discounts or special packages to your email subscribers.
- Exclusive Discounts: Offer a special discount code that subscribers can use when making a direct booking. This not only encourages bookings but also makes your subscribers feel valued.
- Special Packages: Create packages that are only available to subscribers who book directly through your email campaigns. These could include add-ons like a free breakfast, a bottle of wine on arrival, or a late check-out.
- Early Access: Give your subscribers early access to new packages or promotions. This gives them an incentive to book directly and can help you fill up your rooms faster.
Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)
In the digital age, listing your property on Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) is an excellent way to increase your visibility and reach a wider audience. OTAs allow potential guests from across the globe to discover your small hotel or B&B.
- Choose the Right OTAs: Different OTAs may cater to different demographics. For example, some might attract budget travelers while others might be popular among luxury seekers. Choose the OTAs that align with your target demographic.
- Optimize Your Listings: Make sure your listings are attractive and informative. Use high-quality photos, write compelling descriptions, and highlight any unique features or amenities.
- Manage Your OTA Presence: Regularly update your availability and prices. Also, respond promptly to any inquiries or reviews to show that you value your guests’ feedback.
Major platforms like Booking.com and Expedia can significantly boost your visibility due to their large user base.
- Use High-Quality Images: Both these platforms allow multiple images in your listing. Use this opportunity to showcase your property in the best light possible.
- Highlight Special Features: If your hotel or B&B offers unique features or services, make sure to highlight them in your listing. This could be anything from a stunning view to a complimentary breakfast.
- Encourage Reviews: Positive reviews can greatly enhance your listing’s appeal. Encourage your guests to leave reviews after their stay.
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Customer Reviews and Testimonials
They provide social proof, build trust, and can significantly influence potential guests’ booking decisions.
- Ask for Reviews: Don’t hesitate to ask your guests to leave a review after their stay. If they had a positive experience, they are likely to be happy to share it.
- Make It Easy: Provide direct links to your review platform profiles in your emails or on your website. The easier you make it for guests to leave a review, the more likely they are to do it.
- Respond to Reviews: This includes both positive and negative reviews. Thanking guests for their positive reviews shows appreciation, while responding to negative reviews in a constructive manner can show potential guests that you take their feedback seriously.
Displaying guest reviews on your website can increase its credibility and give potential guests the confidence to book.
- Create a Testimonials Page: Dedicate a page on your website to showcase your testimonials and high-rating reviews.
- Use Reviews in Marketing Materials: Positive reviews and testimonials can be included in your newsletters, social media posts, and other marketing materials.
- Highlight Positive Feedback: If a guest compliments a specific aspect of their stay, like the cleanliness of the rooms or the quality of the breakfast, highlight this in your marketing materials.
Conclusion
In conclusion, promoting a small hotel or B&B involves a creative blend of strategies including social media engagement, email marketing, listing on OTAs, and highlighting customer reviews. The aim is not just to attract guests but to provide unforgettable experiences that encourage repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth referrals. By understanding your guests’ needs and showcasing what makes your property unique, even the smallest property can achieve significant success.
