Lately, bed and breakfast accommodation has become more attractive to people going on holiday. Factors such as the ability to book online, cheaper in relation to hotels, and more privacy have contributed to these. The Airbnb craze is the newest trend in this accommodation model.
However, the widespread use has opened doors for unusual holiday destinations. This has resulted in negative reviews that have hit the industry in a way. Here are the do’s and don’ts to staying afloat in a shaky bed and breakfast accommodation industry.
Do’s
The basics of cleanliness and privacy are non-negotiables. Everything should be cleaned daily, and items such as bedding must be changed. They should also be replaced often as they wear out.
But you need to go beyond the basics.
- Engage your guests
Do not be intrusive, but always be available and reachable to your clients. Create a blog or website where you become known to them by explaining things and offering holiday tips (e.g. places and activities) as well as industry trends.
- Encourage honest reviews
Rather than beg for positive reviews, encourage honesty. This will give you ideas on where to improve. Engage guests in the reviews and consistently seek to solve dissatisfaction, even if it means refunding.
- Remain Visible
Be a contributor where accommodation discussions take place. Sell your strengths and tell people where you think the industry can improve. This will get you in people’s minds and entrench you as an authority in the industry.
Key Don’ts
- Do not cancel bookings abruptly. Unless it’s a pandemic, do not be your potential guests’ inconvenience.
- Do not bug your rooms. Whether you are paid money to betray, or you are just a pervert, do not fall for this temptation. You are an accommodation facility, not a private investigator.
- Do not keep rude attendants in your service.
- Do not participate in attacks against other service providers in a bid to popularise yourself.
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