Tips to optimise hotel operations

One of the biggest challenges for all properties — especially for smaller properties which are forced to do more with less staff, a lower budget and new challenges — is how to increase the efficiency of their operations, revenue management and marketing strategies to boost bookings. Benjamin Verot, Founder, HotelMinder, shares 4 key tips with TRAVTALK.

TT Bureau

Benjamin Verot, Founder, HotelMinder, has been a trusted hospitality industry resource for hoteliers, offering an in-depth Knowledge Hub, an unbiased Technology Marketplace and a curated network of industry experts to solve hoteliers’ pressing operational problems. In his 15+ years in the industry, Verot has provided consulting services to 100+ hotels and groups, so he knows what strategies will work best for properties of all types and sizes. “I’m excited about the opportunity to share my thoughts on this important topic because, contrary to popular opinion, the most impactful tips are not always the biggest ones. In reality, you often get the best results from small, properly planned and implemented updates, supported by the right strategy and technology. So, let’s jump right in with a quick and easy tip that you can implement and see results,” Verot says.

Implement Length of Stay restrictions

Your property should be using LoS controls strategically during high-demand periods to maximise occupancy and revenue by prioritising longer, more profitable bookings over shorter stays that can break-up valuable inventory. Implementing LoS restrictions reduces operational costs, as longer stays often result in lower housekeeping frequency, savings in energy, improved front desk efficiency and savings on restocking of in-room amenities.

Define granular room types

Think beyond standard room types. Create and market specific, targeted room types (i.e., Family Suite with Balcony, Business King with Desk, etc). By clearly communicating the value proposition that each room offers to the target demographic, you can showcase your unique offerings more effectively. This allows for more precise, value-based pricing.

Invest in right tech

While technology is not always the answer for all hotels or operational problems, it can be game changer when properly implemented. I consulted for a 90-room property in Dublin that was experiencing a bottleneck at check-in. To resolve this issue, we implemented a multi-channel AI chatbot to proactively engage guests, pre-arrival, regardless of what channel they booked through and guided them through a seamless online check-in process.

Data-driven help

Collect data to understand what different guest segments need and expect from their hotel stay. Use this knowledge to update your offerings and marketing messaging to effectively communicate to each demographic exactly how you can meet their needs. This will result in more bookings.