Starting a hotel business can be an exhilarating yet daunting venture, with 61% of U.S. hotels currently recognized as small businesses. As a new owner, are you equipped with the essential start-up hacks to navigate this competitive landscape? From leveraging cutting-edge technology to implementing sustainable practices, the modern hotelier must master a diverse set of skills to thrive in an industry projected to reach $1.27 trillion globally by 2031.

Opening up a brand-new hotel is something you never thought would come into fruition, but you’ve opened the doors, and you’re ready to begin trading. After a lot of blood, sweat, tears and hard work, it’s finally time to see the fruits of your labor, but there’s obviously still a lot that needs to be done at this early stage. Whether you’re looking into the right booking software, or you’re working on creating the best guest experience possible, you need to start adding the finishing touches to your hotel right away. Consider some of the following start-up hotel hacks that every new owner should know, and your premises is bound to be the most popular one on the block!

Create a Show-Stopping Website

Your hotel website should have all the relevant elements in place to make a good impression on your new and loyal customers. With a simple and effective hotel website builder, you can ensure that your rooms are bookable in the most stunning way possible. You may not realize it now, but many people judge a hotel from their website right away, so it pays to invest in a good one from the very moment you’re setting up. With easy to navigate booking pages and a smooth journey towards the checkout page, you can be sure that your website has all the elements it needs.

Work With an Interior Designer

With an interior designer on your side, the decor of your hotel simply cannot go wrong. Although it may seem like a significant expense at the time, nothing can put a price on perfection when it comes to creating the best possible space for your clients. Using your mood board and your ideal client profile, you can work together to create picture – perfect rooms that leave everyone in awe from the moment they step through the door.

Understand Your Clients

Knowing exactly who your clients are and what they’re looking for is so valuable when you’re just about to open a hotel. Before you even start the process of building a website or contacting an interior designer, you need to conduct some in depth market research to make sure you really know your clients inside and out.

Provide Little Perks and Go the Extra Mile

As soon as you have this all important customer data at your fingertips, you can start thinking about all the little perks you need to include throughout your hotel. Going the extra mile with additional cleaning services, small tokens of gratitude and gifts will help to impress your customers so that they refer you to other people.

When it comes to creating the best possible experience for your customers, all of this small, 

but valuable touches will certainly help you to go the extra mile. Whether you’re working alongside an experienced interior designer, or you’re speaking with your ideal clients during market research discussions, there is so much you can do to ensure that your new hotel is set up for success from day one.

Leverage Technology for Seamless Guest Experiences

As a new hotel owner, embracing technology can set you apart from competitors. Invest in a user-friendly property management system (PMS) that integrates with your booking engine and channel manager. This allows for real-time inventory updates across all platforms, reducing overbooking and maximizing occupancy. Consider implementing contactless check-in options through mobile apps or self-service kiosks. These streamline operations and cater to tech-savvy guests who prefer minimal human interaction. Smart room features like keyless entry, voice-controlled lighting, and personalized temperature settings can enhance the guest experience and potentially command higher rates.

Develop a Strong Digital Marketing Strategy

In today’s digital age, your online presence is crucial for attracting guests. Create a mobile-responsive website that showcases your property’s unique features and local attractions. Implement search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to improve your visibility in search results. Utilize social media platforms to engage with potential guests and share compelling content about your hotel and destination. Consider partnering with travel influencers or bloggers to reach a wider audience. Email marketing can be an effective tool for nurturing relationships with past guests and encouraging repeat bookings. Remember to monitor your online reputation closely and respond promptly to reviews, both positive and negative.

Focus on Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is increasingly important to travelers, especially younger generations. Implement eco-friendly practices that not only appeal to environmentally conscious guests but also reduce operational costs. Consider energy-efficient lighting and appliances, water-saving fixtures, and waste reduction programs. Source local, organic products for your restaurant or mini-bar offerings. Highlight your sustainability efforts in your marketing materials to attract eco-conscious travelers. You might even consider pursuing green certifications like LEED or Green Key Global to further differentiate your property.

Create Unique, Memorable Experiences

To stand out in a crowded market, focus on creating unique experiences that guests can’t find elsewhere. This could involve partnering with local businesses to offer exclusive tours or activities, hosting cultural events or workshops, or creating Instagram-worthy spots within your property. Consider the growing “leisure” trend by offering amenities that cater to both business and leisure travelers, such as co-working spaces or wellness programs. Personalization is key – use data from your PMS to remember guest preferences and tailor their experiences accordingly.

Invest in Staff Training and Development

Your staff are the face of your hotel and play a crucial role in guest satisfaction. Invest in comprehensive training programs that go beyond basic hospitality skills. Focus on developing emotional intelligence, problem-solving abilities, and cultural awareness. Consider cross-training staff in multiple roles to increase flexibility and efficiency. Implement an employee recognition program to boost morale and reduce turnover. Happy, well-trained staff will provide better service, leading to positive reviews and repeat business. Remember, in the hospitality industry, your people are your greatest asset.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important factors to consider when starting a hotel business?
When starting a hotel business, it’s crucial to focus on location, target market, budget, legal requirements, staffing, and marketing strategies. Additionally, ensuring high-quality amenities and excellent customer service are key factors for success.

How can I make my hotel stand out from competitors?
To make your hotel stand out, offer unique amenities, personalized services, and create memorable experiences for guests. Consider implementing eco-friendly practices, showcasing local culture, or offering specialized packages tailored to your target audience.

What are some cost-effective ways to market a new hotel?
Utilize social media platforms, create a user-friendly website, engage with online travel agencies, and encourage guest reviews. Collaborate with local businesses and tourism boards to cross-promote and reach a wider audience.

How important is staff training in the hotel industry?
Staff training is crucial in the hotel industry. Well-trained employees provide better customer service, handle problems efficiently, and contribute to a positive guest experience. Invest in regular training programs to keep your staff up-to-date with industry standards and your hotel’s policies.

What technology should I invest in for my hotel?
Invest in a reliable property management system, a user-friendly booking engine, and a robust Wi-Fi network. Consider implementing keyless entry systems, in-room tablets for guest services, and energy management systems to improve efficiency and guest satisfaction.

How can I ensure guest safety and security in my hotel?
Implement modern security systems, including surveillance cameras and secure access controls. Train staff on emergency procedures, maintain fire safety equipment, and ensure all areas of the hotel are well-lit. Regularly review and update safety protocols.

What are some effective ways to gather and respond to guest feedback?
Encourage guests to leave reviews on popular travel websites, send post-stay surveys via email, and provide in-room feedback forms. Respond promptly and professionally to all feedback, addressing concerns and thanking guests for positive comments.

How can I make my hotel more environmentally friendly?
Implement energy-efficient lighting and appliances, use eco-friendly cleaning products, and encourage guests to reuse towels and linens. Consider installing water-saving fixtures, implementing recycling programs, and sourcing local, sustainable products.

What legal considerations should I know when opening a hotel?
Be familiar with local zoning laws, health and safety regulations, and licensing requirements. Ensure compliance with employment laws, accessibility standards, and data protection regulations. Consider consulting a lawyer specializing in hospitality law.

How can I manage and reduce operational costs in my hotel?
Implement energy-saving measures, optimize staff scheduling, negotiate with suppliers for better rates, and use technology to streamline operations. Regularly review and analyze financial data to identify areas for improvement and cost reduction.