When talking about the ever-changing world, businesses do not fall much behind, especially the hospitality industry.
Regardless of the hospitality business you own, be it a hotel, a B&B, or other similar ventures; you should be in the know that it evolves, and you are advised to follow through as much as you possibly can, and as much as your finances allow you to.
In times when you are not in a position to invest as many funds as you think are necessary – these tips on hospitality financing options may come in handy.
Hospitality business financing options worth looking into
i. Working Capital Loans
As you are probably already aware, the hospitality business goes through busy and slow seasons. Be that as it may, as an owner or manager – your venue needs to navigate through these changes in the workplace successfully. This change brings about growth in profits and turnover.
Regardless of how busy the season is, payroll and inventory are still costs that need to be covered. This is when working capital loans come into the picture. Usually, this can get done in a day.
These types of loans are mainly intended for short-term use – and the repayment terms are fast as well. It often takes up to 18 months to repay the lender.
ii. Business Term Loans
When compared to the working capital loans, the business term loans are larger and are most often considered when the hotel is in need of a bigger capital for investment or construction projects.
Simply put, if you need more funds, and more time to repay them – this may be the best choice for you and your venue.
iii. Equipment Loans
As the name suggests, this type of loan may be ideal if you are in need of some new equipment, or in a case when the one you have needs replacement.
This can be very helpful since you wouldn’t want your customers to be left without a refrigerator, or your housekeepers to be slowed down by a dysfunctional washing machine.
Best ways to use financial influx in the hospitality business
So, you now know about the importance of keeping up with the demand, and all the ways you can get financial help and support – it is time to invest.
What can you do in order to grow your hospitality business?
- Remodel – new designs can make the place look nicer and more modern
- Renovate – change what needs changing and make the atmosphere more welcoming
- Additional Amenities – a gym or a spa is an excellent and very popular idea
- New Services – new fitness instructors or massage parlors
- Bigger Property – an opportunity to expand your business and thus your offer
- Newest Technology – more booking options and feedback web space
- Additional Staff Members – be ready for the busiest season with just the right number of employees
How to stay on top of the game in the hospitality business
Unfortunately, there isn’t one simple solution for this problem, but there are some seemingly little, yet significant things you can do in order to find your way up on the scale of success.
1. Location, location, location
And if it is not clear enough – location. Yes, its importance is crucial in the success of your hospitality business. So, how can you find the most optimal location for your next endeavor? Well, there isn’t a formula to follow per se, but there are a few points that matter when deciding:
- Number of visitors – both domestic and international in and around the location
- You can use an old building and renovate it if the location is perfect in your estimate
- Whether the area you have in mind is attractive for families, couples, and business travelers as well (each group matters)
- Whether you have expansion options around the site of your choosing
2. Read the reviews
Feedback is helpful in order to be aware of your customers’ real thoughts about your hotel. You can learn about what needs to change, or what needs to be advertised and promoted more since it generated positive reviews.
If the reviews are positive, don’t forget to show gratitude, and if not – try to answer politely and promise that you will try and mend any mistakes. (if it is in your power, of course) Also, don’t forget about your competitor’s reviews.
You can find out about their strengths and weaknesses and use this information to your advantage.
3. Make your hospitality business visible
Everywhere. Newspaper campaigns, billboards, digital signage, and of course – the internet and the different online platforms.
The more visible you make the hotel – the larger the number of potential customers. Invest in this part of your business – it is worth the effort, time, and funds.
4. Take care of customers and their needs
Provide an experience your customers won’t forget. And most importantly, will share.
Once a customer leaves your hotel satisfied, you can be sure that – first and foremost – they will return, and second – they will talk about it. On the internet, in person – and attract more potential customers free of charge.
5. Communication matters
When choosing your team, make sure that they have good communication skills. They will need them.
In times of unexpected errors or misunderstandings with customers – your team needs to be prepared to go through the problem and try and fix it in the most polite and tolerant way possible. They will sort the issue at hand and impress the customers at the same time.
6. Be mindful of the details
As owner or manager, you strive to provide only the best for each and every guest in your hotel. In order to do that, besides the tips mentioned above – being observant of details should be a priority too. Greetings, smiling, and being polite for starters.
Moreover, you need to take care of smaller details also – fresh flowers, the way waiters serve the food, the napkins, and how are they folded – all the way to the checkout. Make every minute count.
7. Invest in a hotel website
Since we live in a technologically-driven world, it is only reasonable to invest in a website. It is your digital display.
As mentioned above, being visible is crucial – and one way to show off your potential to interested customers is to create a website.
It is supposed to be a place where you will provide information, images, and positive comments for your business. Or in other words, you are going to be able to impress customers from afar.
8. Keep up with the trends
This probably doesn’t come as a surprise. Evolving is part of the business process, and you should always make sure that you stay in the loop. It will be appreciated by many – that is a guarantee.
9. Provide event-friendly space
Be it a conference room, a garden or a hall – don’t forget to mention that you do offer the possibility of organizing events. Weddings, business conferences, or concerts even – be open to the idea and the opportunity to attract all kinds of guests.
Additionally, your hotel can offer romantic retreats for couples, or any type of getaway your potential customers may need.
Hannah Derby is a digital marketer who is enthusiastic about trying out the newest trends and innovations in the digital marketing industry and helping businesses advance. She is also interested in how these innovations impact the economy and business growth so she often blogs about current trends, especially in the business plan consultant field, and provides insights to her readers, which many times have proven helpful and useful.
