Strategies to Increase Occupancy to Above 60% in Your B&B, Guest House, or Boutique Hotel

Are you hoping to get more guests staying at your B&B, guest house, or boutique hotel? It's super important to have a good occupancy rate to make sure you're making the most of your business in the hospitality world. In this blog, we've got some awesome strategies to help you get your occupancy rate up to over 60%. Let's dive in!

If you want to get more people staying at your place, you gotta know who you're trying to attract. Figure out the kind of folks who would be into what you're offering, and then shape your marketing to match. Think about stuff like who they are, what they like, and why your place is just the bee's knees. Once you've got all that down, you can launch marketing that really speaks to the people you want staying with you.

Without exception, it’s absolutely important for any bed and breakfast to have its own website. A social media account is great, but it’s no substitute for a website on your own domain. In this day and age, a majority of bookings start with a customer finding your website.

When executed properly, a website can make it easier to be found through an online search. While you do often have to pay for a domain in your own B&B’s name, it’s worth it for the following reasons:

• You can better drive people to your site and through your booking process.
• You can preemptively keep domain squatters from using the domain against you.
• You gain more control over your own brand.

Even if you don’t own your own domain, having your own website allows you to post as much information about your B&B as you want, in whatever manner you deem appropriate. You can present better quality pictures than would currently be possible on Facebook or paid social ads. You could also offer types of interactive online experiences that simply would not be possible on social media or third party online listings.

At the same time, you need to build a following through your social media accounts. Offer incentives such as following your Instagram or Facebook page for them to join a contest. From there, you can gather enough interested followers and then direct them to your site through social content.

Want to make your B&B shine on social media? Easy peasy. Just hop onto Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and flaunt all the awesome things about your place. Share those stunning pics, rave reviews from guests, and sweet deals to catch the eye of your followers. Oh, and don't forget to show love back by replying to comments, doing Q&As, and featuring content from your guests. It's all about creating a cozy community vibe and making sure folks keep coming back for more. Time to get social!

 Implement search engine optimisation (SEO) strategies to improve your B&B's visibility in online search results. Focus on relevant keywords, meta tags, and local SEO tactics to attract organic traffic from traveler's searching for accommodation in your area. Regularly update your website with fresh content, such as blog posts, local guides, and guest stories, to enhance your search engine rankings and establish authority in your niche.

Creating enticing packages and specials can help draw in more guests and increase occupancy. Develop value-added offers such as weekend getaways, romantic packages, or adventure experiences that cater to different guest preferences. Promote these packages through targeted marketing campaigns and utilise channels such as email newsletters and social media to reach your audience directly. Collaborate with local businesses or attractions to create exclusive deals that are mutually beneficial.

Team up with nearby attractions, restaurants, and tour operators to help each other out. You can cook up special discounts or bundles that feature cool experiences with your partners to make your guests' stay even more awesome. By working together on marketing efforts like social media contests or fun events, you can spread the word further and shine a spotlight on your B&B and your partners. Let's all grow together and create stronger ties within your community!

Providing exceptional guest experiences is the key to attracting repeat guests and positive word-of-mouth recommendations. Pay attention to every detail, from the cleanliness and comfort of rooms to the quality of food and personalised services. Train your staff to be attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about local attractions and amenities. Offer special touches like welcome amenities, complimentary upgrades, or personalised greetings to make guests feel valued and appreciated.

Organise events, workshops, or themed weekends at your B&B to attract guests with specific interests or hobbies. Whether it's a culinary workshop, a yoga retreat, or a wine tasting event, providing unique experiences can differentiate your B&B and attract a diverse

audience. Promote upcoming events on your website, social media platforms, and local event listings to generate buzz and encourage bookings.

Elevate your B&B's appeal by utilising top-notch photos that captivate potential guests. Opt for professional photography to highlight the splender of your lodgings, facilities, and environment, alluring traveler to make a reservation. Enhance your marketing strategy by enlisting a photographer to portray seasonal attractions like flourishing gardens in spring or inviting fireplaces in winter, showcasing your B&B's charm year-round. Implement a 360 Tour feature on your website to offer guests a virtual glimpse of your B&B before they arrive.

Join online travel communities, forums, and discussion groups related to hospitality and B&Bs. Participate in discussions, share valuable insights, and network with fellow innkeepers and traveler to raise awareness about your B&B and attract potential guests. Share photos, stories, and tips from your own experiences to establish yourself as a knowledgeable and trusted authority within the travel community, driving traffic to your website and increasing bookings.