Your small property’s distribution strategy is the key to keeping a steady stream of guests walking through your doors. Once you stop investing in it, you will see your revenue comes to a grinding halt.
But you can’t afford to spend thousands of dollars on marketing like the large hotels do. Here’s what you can invest in to ramp up distribution - without breaking your budget.
1) Invest in the guest relationship
Our research has found that direct phone calls, emails, and walk-ins account for 1 in every 3 reservations made within the small accommodation industry, so investing in the guest relationship is definitely worth your time!
Invest in communication technology
Keeping in touch with guests after their stay is the best way to encourage repeat bookings and word of mouth referrals. Your front desk system should allow you to send automatic emails after a guest stays with you - why not include a promotion code they can use on their next visit?
Partner with local tourism associations
Local tourism organizations focus on promoting your destination, and act as a not for profit hub where travelers can book transport, accommodation, and things to do. The cost to you varies from one centre to another. They will usually charge a membership fee or a commission per booking, but in some cases, it will be completely free of charge.
How to attract a fresh set of guests this year
(on an innkeeper’s budget)