COVID-19 has completely restructured the industry. Since the pandemic started, every hotel has had to refigure management. With hotels being reopened, more operation shifts have come to play.
The goal is to rebound. No, you can’t recoup everything, but the goal should be to optimize operations as much as possible.
So, what does the future look like?
Continue to stay in compliance with new regulations
Most hotels are still short-staffed. Right now, every business is trying to stay up to date on each property’s sanitization processes. Reconsider certain fixtures in the guest rooms to ensure a hygienic environment and provide alternatives if you feel like the amenities aren’t safe. If you are continuing to offer contactless services, advertise it on your social media platforms. In fact, anything that provides safety and reassurance to costumers should be advertised.
Know your audience and adjust as it changes
Depending on your area, different markets are going to be interested in the property. Mainland China has started to recover by catering to business travel. A report concluded that 31.8% hotel occupancy in March came from corporate travel.
While many locations are finding that while long-distance travel isn’t happening much, local travel is spiking up. Are you advertising your meeting spaces? Or are you catered to a demographic that isn’t traveling? A hotel that is in a city is going to push towards a different market than a rural hotel. Staycations are an alternative market for those that aren’t in city centers.
Repurpose and re-engineer
Innovation is what will establish your brand. Look at your business model and find ways to repurpose your space. If you get research on the needs of customers, you can establish unused rooms as an alternative rental/lease space.
Alongside this, analyze your operations and dedicate time to finding ways to increase productivity.
Communicate
Empathy is key. Remember, that while you may be desperate to get bookings in, people will remember how you acted before they bought a room. Compassion is important to have in your marketing process. This may mean instead of promoting immediate bookings, market your direct channels, social media and website. It’s a good idea to use these channels to post the latest updates and news.
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