There’s one thing all hotel owners have in common – you want more direct bookings! When your guests book directly with you, both parties win. You’re able to keep the full revenue instead of paying commission to third party platforms and guests get a more personal experience.
However, getting potential guests to bypass online travel agencies (OTAs for short) isn’t exactly easy. They’re popular, easy to use, and offer guests deals that are hard to refuse. But, all isn’t lost! You can make your direct booking more appealing to potential customers so that they come straight to you instead of anywhere else.
You need to start by focusing on your website. Is it easy to use? Is it mobile friendly? People want something that’s easy to use, clean, and gives them all of the information they want like pricing and availability. Good photos of your hotel and rooms are a big must too.
Then, you need to give them a reason to book directly with you instead of an OTA like a special discount, free breakfast, or even a no fee cancellation policy. Small gestures like these will win potential guests in your favor.
Lastly, you need to be trustworthy. Start building and showcasing reviews from guests that have stayed at your hotel both on your website and through Google reviews. Once people can see that other guests have had a great experience with you, they won’t think twice about booking directly on your website.
Infographic by Direct Booking Funnel
