Running a hotel is no small feat. You’re juggling a lot of responsibilities, and at the end of the day, it all comes down to one thing, which is guest satisfaction. If your guests aren’t comfortable, they won’t come back. Here are seven ways to make your hotel feel like a home away from home.
Pay Attention to the Little Things
It’s often the little things that leave the biggest impression. Imagine walking into your room after a long day of traveling only for you to find that the towels smell musty, the linens aren’t as fresh as they could be, or the shower barely gets warm. This is not exactly a wonderful way to start your stay. Paying attention to details, such as crisp sheets, clean towels, and functioning amenities, is a must. These small touches create an atmosphere of comfort that guests will appreciate.
Make Sure Your Staff Deliver Excellent Customer Service
Of course, none of that matters if your staff isn’t friendly. Guests can overlook a minor inconvenience if the person at the front desk greets them with a smile and offers a solution to the problems they’re facing. Your staff is the face of your establishment, and excellent customer service goes a long way.
Have Enticing Amenities
Speaking of Wi-Fi, modern travelers expect certain amenities. Gone are the days when simply offering a clean room was enough. Today, amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, or a simple grab-and-go breakfast, can be the deciding factor for many guests. People love convenience, so offering a variety of amenities, even small ones, can make a significant difference. What’s more, having options like a pool or on-site restaurant can give your guests something to enjoy without having to leave the property.
Create an Atmosphere That Promotes Relaxation
Creating a relaxing atmosphere is also key. Your hotel should feel like a peaceful escape from the chaos of everyday life. Soft lighting, soothing colors, and calming decor can set the tone for a restful stay. Think about adding a few cozy touches like comfortable chairs in common areas or light background music in the lobby.
Offer Flexible Check-In and Check-Out Options
Another way to make your guests’ stay more comfortable is to offer flexibility around check-in and check-out times. If you can offer early check-in or late check-out options, it’s a small gesture that can make an enormous impact. Imagine how much a guest who just flew in on a red-eye flight would appreciate being able to check in a little early to rest.
Provide Guides Containing Information About the Area
Don’t forget to provide local information. A small guide to nearby restaurants or local attractions can enhance your guests’ experience. Even if they’re just passing through, they might want to know where to grab a good cup of coffee or find a great spot for a quick walk.
Gather Feedback
Ask for feedback. No one knows what your guests want better than the guests themselves. Send out a quick survey after their stay or simply ask them as they’re checking out. Not only will this help you improve, but it also shows that you care about their experience.
In the end, creating a comfortable stay is about focusing on the details that matter most to guests. With a little extra effort and a lot of heart, you can make your hotel a place they’ll want to return to repeatedly.
Published by: Martin De Juan