Hotel businesses can increase their direct bookings by utilizing various online and offline strategies. In this article, we will outline seven different direct booking strategies your hotel business can use to increase bookings made through your own website or booking channels.
1. Optimize Your Website
Your hotel website should be optimized for search engines so that potential guests can easily find your hotel when they are searching online. Make sure that your hotel’s name, address, and contact details are prominently listed on your website. Also, include photos and videos of your hotel to give potential guests a taste of what your hotel has to offer.
2. Utilize Social Media Channels
Social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can be used to promote your hotel and generate interest in potential guests. Post engaging content on a regular basis, and make sure to include photos and videos to give potential guests a glimpse of what your hotel has to offer.
3. Create A Loyalty Program
Creating a loyalty program for your hotel can help to increase direct bookings as loyal guests are more likely to book directly with your hotel rather than through an online travel agency. Offer exclusive discounts and perks to loyalty program members to encourage them to book directly with your hotel.
4. Offer Promotions And Discounts
Offering promotions and discounts is a great way to increase hotel direct bookings. Promote special offers on your hotel website and social media channels, and make sure to include a call-to-action so that potential guests know how to take advantage of the offer.
5. List Your Hotel On Online Travel Agencies
While you want to encourage potential guests to book directly with your hotel, it’s also important to list your hotel on popular online travel agencies such as Expedia and booking.com. This will ensure that potential guests can find your hotel when they are searching for accommodations.
Furthermore, many customers who find hotels on these websites actually go to the hotel’s website to book their stay, so it’s important to make sure that your hotel website is optimized for search engines and easy to navigate.
6. Streamline The Booking Process
Making it easy for potential guests to book a room at your hotel is essential in increasing hotel direct bookings. Your hotel booking system should be user-friendly and allow potential guests to easily select their dates of stay, room type, and the number of guests.
7. Respond To Reviews And Complaints
When potential guests are searching for a hotel, they will often read online reviews to see what other guests have said about their stay. Make sure to respond to all reviews, both positive and negative. If there are any complaints, make sure to address them in a timely manner.
Final Thoughts
By following these seven direct booking strategies, your hotel business can increase the number of bookings made through your own website or booking channels. Implementing even a few of these strategies can make a big difference in your hotel’s bottom line.