News & Press
Is it time for a new look?
By Linda Hay, Communications Team - January 11, 2010
With the annual ritual of forming (and breaking) resolutions for self-improvement, something related to one’s image is almost always on the list: a new haircut, shape, or style. Instinctively we know that the image we project to others says something about ourselves.
As far as our properties are concerned, we plan for this as well. We know that when the bedspreads are tired, the flooring is worn and the wallpaper is out of style… it’s best not to mention that at all. But we plan and budget to refresh the look of our property on a regular schedule. But in this day and age, where our guests meet us online before they ever set foot on property, the new question is, “How do we look electronically?” Is it time to refresh that image?
Visit your Website
Sometimes it’s as simple as visiting your own website. Close your eyes and pretend you’ve never seen the property before. Then open them, truly open them, as you review your own website. What would you think the place was like if you had never been there before? Which beautiful features do you walk past every day that aren’t even pictured on your site? Which new amenities are missing? Do you have a new chef, sommelier or valet service? Are your conference rooms or suites redone? The hardest mistakes to find are the things that aren’t there.
Perhaps a new section is needed to feature occasional improvements to the property. A News page can be a great place to park information that’s too small to warrant an overhaul of your site, but important enough to bring to the attention of potential guests. And it’s a spot to place booking links and special offers, too.
Make a reservation at your own property
Another way to update your online look is to send yourself some CRM or email marketing. Do those pieces still reflect your property and website? Are the colors and branding consistent? Images fresh and compelling? Can you book easily and respond to offers? What do those pieces look like on your phone?
Digital Alchemy specializes in hospitality-focused CRM that is designed to drive revenue for clients. Optimizing messages for their ability to increase revenue is their specialty. Did your existing reservation confirmation leave you confident in your booking decision? Are you excited about your upcoming stay? Was that confirmation followed up with a pre-stay piece geared to introducing and booking your unique amenities?
Follow the process of your CRM all the way through to the end. Are you leaving guests with the knowledge that their business was valued and appreciated? Are you set up to invite them back in a meaningful fashion?
Make a plan
The good news is that it’s January. New beginnings mean the opportunity to work plans for improvement into your budget. Very few image enhancements take place overnight. Whether your look needs improvement on your website, in your CRM or eMarketing, this is a great time to shop your services and form a comprehensive plan for a consistent and profitable approach to your electronic image that your property needs for maximum performance.
From major renovations to minor updates, Digital Alchemy offers an enhancement plan that meets your needs. Be sure your plan includes contacting Digital Alchemy to see a full range of options designed with your best image in mind.