As an owner of a serviced accommodation (SA) business, you know how frustrating it can be to put in all that effort and time, only to end up with minimal bookings. But don't worry, there are ways to improve your chances of getting more guests to book your property.
In this blog post, I will share my top 5 tips for boosting bookings in your SA business. So, let's dive right in.
Tip 1: Optimise Your Listing Photos
Photos are the first impression guests get of your property, so it's essential to present your unit in its best light. Poor-quality photos or outdated ones can be a major turn-off to potential guests. Therefore, investing in professional photography is worth considering.
To ensure your photos stand out, add branding to your photos. This could be as simple as having your business name or logo visible in the pictures. This will help to create a professional image and increase brand recognition.
It's also important to switch up the order of the photos on your listing every so often. This shows the OTA algorithm that you're actively working on your listing, which can lead to a boost in search results.
Tip 2: Simplify Your House Rules
Guests want to feel welcome and relaxed when they stay at your property, not like they're being given a laundry list of chores. Simplify your house rules by making them reasonable and not asking too much. Common rules such as check-out time, locking the doors and windows, and turning off the heating are fine. However, avoid asking guests to perform time-consuming tasks such as washing all the dishes, cleaning the gutter or repainting the walls.
By keeping the rules simple, guests are more likely to feel comfortable and at ease, which can lead to positive reviews and recommendations to their friends and family.
Tip 3: Reviews are Golden
Reviews are crucial to the success of your SA business. A high number of positive reviews can make all the difference between a potential guest choosing your property over another. Therefore, it's essential to treat your guests well and go above and beyond to make their stay enjoyable.
When communicating with your guests, drop subtle hints of wanting them to have a '5-star stay'. This can include mentioning how you're always available to help with any questions or concerns they may have. After their stay, thank them for respecting your property and let them know that you've left them a 5-star review. This can encourage them to leave a positive review for you as well.
Tip 4: Contact Previous Guests for Referrals
Your previous guests can be a great source for potential new guests. Consider reaching out to them after their stay and asking if they know anyone who may need accommodation in the area. Friends, family, or colleagues who may be visiting for work or leisure could benefit from your serviced accommodation business. You can also offer incentives for referrals, such as a discount on their next stay or a referral bonus.
Additionally, it's always a good idea to keep a record of your guests' contact information, so you can reach out to them with updates on your properties or any special deals you may be offering. Building a loyal customer base can be a game-changer for your SA business.
Tip 5: Reach Out to Companies working in the Area
Keep an eye out for companies that operate in the area, such as contractors working on development sites or staying in hotels. They may require accommodation for their staff, and serviced accommodation can be a more cost-effective and comfortable option for longer stays. You can reach out to them directly by introducing your SA business and offering your services, perhaps via a phone call or a public LinkedIn post tagging the companies. You can also leave flyers or business cards at local businesses or trade shows to attract potential corporate clients. Building a relationship with local companies can lead to long-term bookings and a stable income stream for your SA business.
Final Thoughts
Improving your SA business bookings may take some time and effort, but it's worth it in the end. By being proactive and taking action on these outside-the-box ideas, you can increase your chances of attracting more guests to your property.
If you're looking for more tips and advice on how to boost your SA business, consider attending one of our free webinars at the SA Enthusiasts Club. We discuss topics like this all the time and are happy to help you take your business to the next level. Click here to learn more!