Hospitality is a dynamic, multi-billion dollar industry, full of opportunity. Whether you’re looking to cater towards more corporate guests, or the family on vacation, there are a few tips that can be universally applied throughout the industry.
1. Create a Positive Work Environment
Hire motivated staff who are willing to go the extra mile. This benefits you as a manager, your guests, and the rest of the staff. Establishing performance incentives for employees who excel in their roles is also a good way to boost morale, and encourage continued superior performances.
2. Know the Competition
There’s nothing wrong with doing a little research. Learn from those in the same, or complementary industries, such as catering and event planning, then apply what you observe to your own business.
3. Listen to Your Customers
The customer is always right. Success in the hospitality industry hinges upon strong customer service. Listen to your guests and create an appropriate outlet for handling suggestions (ex. A suggestion box, feedback cards, emailed surveys, etc.).
4. Set Goals for Improvement
The role of a hotel manager doesn’t end with day-to-day operations. Be proactive in examining procedures, softwares, and other systems to ensure they stay up to date. Create timelines for employee training, apply performance reviews, and identify strategies for growth.
5. Provide the Right Equipment
To be competitive within the hospitality industry, providing the proper equipment to guests and staff is crucial. Stay current on industry standards (booking softwares, wifi capabilities, airport shuttles, fitness centers, etc.), and be sure basic amenities are in good shape.
6. Maintain the Equipment
This may seem like a no-brainer, but once you have the equipment, take care of it! Whether it’s scheduling internally, or working with an outside business, maintaining your equipment will enable short-term, as well as long-term benefits.
7. Keeping a Good Reputation
With such a heavy reliance on online-booking and web-based research, maintaining a strong web presence for your business is of high importance. Visit popular review sites such as Yelp, TripAdvisor, Google+, and see what your guests have to say. Then consider how to translate this feedback into positive change.
8. Be an Innovator
As we’ve already identified, it’s important to stay current on industry trends, but getting ahead of the trends can give you a huge advantage over similar businesses. Realize where room for opportunity exists before your competitors, by reading industry reports, networking with vendors, and building mutually beneficial relationships with local businesses.
9. Be Available to Your Guests
Avoid poor reviews by making sure guests have consistent access to hotel staff, and feel comfortable presenting their needs. As a manager, you can also help with this, by introducing yourself to repeat guests, and assisting the rest of staff, by giving them the tool set needed to build relationships with guests.
10. Have Fun
Working in the hospitality industry can be stressful. It’s tough to stay positive 24/7, but in this business, it’s essential to a good a experience for guests. Respect employee availability, and reward excellent performance, as well as attendance.