Whether you’re starting out with a luxury countryside property on Airbnb, you’re opening a city-based B&B, or you’re planning to open (or have recently opened) the doors to your boutique hotel; the hospitality market is as competitive as it gets. Ensuring that you’ve found the right balance of what to charge guests, against what you offer, is half the battle, so if you’ve managed to do this; congratulations! You’ll already be aware that there’s plenty of hard work to do along the way, and you’ll have put plenty of effort into your fledgling business already.
However, with all those major decisions, regarding the building itself, any food and drinks on offer, and bookings; it can be easy to forget some of the smaller details. Even with investors and advisors on board, there’s often things that can add function, practicality, and even luxury, that are so often overlooked during those first few crucial months. The following are some ideas and inspiration for those starting out in the hospitality business, who want to ensure it can survive in a competitive market and have future success.
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Secure And Safe
Hotel security relies on more than just locks on doors; the whole building needs adequate levels of security so that guests can visibly see them and feel safe. Security cameras and systems, from brands like Avycon will make an ideal addition to entrances, exits, corridors and any publics space and rooms. This will allow staff to ensure the safety and security of guests and other members of the team; having “eyes” everywhere will also deter acts of crime, like theft. Therefore, invest before you open yours doors.
Help And Assistance
It’s worth considering the accessibility levels in each area of your hotel; think about guests who aren’t as able bodied, have sight issues, or health conditions that requires certain additions to the hotel. Having these things in place before anyone enquires or goes to book a room with you, will be a bonus that will ensure they return and spread the word about how accommodating you are. Therefore, do your research and find out what people may need help and assistance with so that it can be provided for them with ease.
Comfort And Care
The little touches, like fresh flowers in the room, a drink and chocolates on arrival, and great quality robes and towels, are what takes an average hotel to new heights. But your efforts should not end here. Remember, surprising guests with flowers and chocolates upon their arrival only to disappoint them with non-functioning amenities or poor room service later makes no sense at all. You have to ensure comfort at all times during their stay. So, from hiring the most qualified staff for attending to the guests and keeping the facility spick and span to ensuring functioning amenities like a kettle, hairdryer, television, telephone, and laundry equipment (possibly sourced from one of the best Industrial Washer Brands), you need to pay attention to all the facets. Never underestimate the power of going that extra mile to provide comfort and care for your guests; they will be paying you to help them make memories, so ensure they’re positive.
All The Senses
Think about each guest’s whole experience, and the things that will elevate it. Having scented candles or diffusers around the hotel, to give it a signature scent will be pleasing and memorable to anyone visiting. Consider the music you play at various times of the day and in different areas; the volume and tempo can really impact someone's mood, so it’s worth being mindful.
Whatever you choose to introduce and implement in your new venture; imagine it’s for a loved one so that each guest feels welcomed and taken care of. They’ll be back to book to receive your hospitality in no time!