Maximise your website for online bookings in 6 easy steps

Direct online bookings on the website of your hotel, guesthouse or pension are not subject to third party commissions, cost less and are better for the bottom line of your accommodation establishment.

When you offer travellers the functionality to book their accommodation on your site, you put them in the driver’s seat of their holiday.

Here are six tips on how to maximise your website and attract more guests.

Know your clients

Analyse your client data and know who your clients are and why they choose your establishment. In this way, you can tailor-make your marketing and sales messages on social media, your website and blogs. Make sure you include relevant keywords to optimise organic search with SEO.

Wow with your website

Make potential clients linger longer on your site by telling them exactly what they can expect when staying at your pension or guesthouse. Charm them with creative content, beautiful design and striking images. Your site should also be responsive, load fast and be easy to navigate.

Make it easy to book online

Your online booking process should consist of no more than three steps. Include the online “Book now” button on every page of your website. Also assure clients that the process is secure. Always send a booking confirmation with all the necessary and relevant accommodation details.

Tantalise with testimonials

Guest testimonials are the digital equivalent of word of mouth referrals. Ask your clients to rate your establishment and service, and to write short reviews. If your guests give you five stars you will get more bookings, but be honest with your reviews and don’t exclude the minor criticisms as long as you have responded and reacted to them.

Get active on social media

Reward your Facebook followers with discounts when they book directly on your site. Regularly share blogs, photos and videos about the accommodation, food, activities and events on your social media pages.

Boost your Google rank with blogs

Blogs are a great value add. They help you stand out from the accommodation crowd. “How to pack for your next ski holiday”, “What not to do when hiking in the mountains”, or “10 Must have’s” are popular ways of getting people’s attention.

The ability for travellers to make online bookings is essential for the survival of your business in the hospitality industry. Is your website easy to navigate and do you have active social profiles? If you’d like some help with making sure that you’re online in all the right places, then get in touch today!

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