From marketing to sales to customer service, the world of innkeeping and running a business in the hospitality field can be overwhelming. We’re here to help! We’ve learned from experience, and we’re here to give you some top-notch tips for new innkeepers.
To learn more about running the best bed and breakfast you can, feel free to take advantage of our Current Innkeeper Workshops.
Our Favorite Tips for New Innkeepers
Whether you’re an aspiring innkeeper or have already taken the leap and purchased your dream B&B or inn, keep reading to learn how to run a successful business and satisfy your future guests.
1. First Impressions
It’s been said that you only have 30 seconds to make an impression on someone, so it better be a positive one. Guests will start assessing your business as soon as they click on your website or step up to your front door. It’s crucial that your appearance makes a fantastic first impression. Your website should have fast loading speed and professional photography, and your patio/greeting area should be clean, tidy, and exude a welcoming vibe.
2. Cleaning and Sanitation
Making your guests feel clean and comfortable has always been crucial for running a successful inn, but in today’s world, it’s more important than ever. Be sure to refer to the checklist created by American Hotels & Lodging Association (AHLA). Their industry-wide “Safe Stay” initiative focuses on social distancing, disinfecting protocols, cleaning practices, employee health, signage, and more.
3. Dining Room Details
Breakfast is half the bed and breakfast experience, so why not treat it as such? Make your dining room stand out with thoughtful accents and details—such as fresh flower arrangements, luxurious linens, fresh aromatic coffee, and more. When it comes to your food menu, guests will appreciate the extra measures you take to add value. For example, using locally-sourced goods, cooking/baking items from scratch, and offering options to accommodate dietary restrictions.
4. Customer Experience
Within the past year, travelers have become more cautious. If they’re willing to take a leap of faith and trust you and your business, you need to recognize that and do everything you can to provide the ultimate guest experience—this begins with customer service. You can make your guest feel like a VIP by greeting them by name with a welcoming smile, answering their questions, providing prompt service, offering complimentary amenities, and more.
Learn More Tips for Success With Inn Partners
From all of us here at Inn Partners, we wish you success in your journey as an innkeeper. We want to continue to provide you with the best and most up-to-date information from the innkeeping world. You can continue to learn from us in our Innkeeping Workshops. We’ll give you the inside scoop on marketing, trends, sales, and more! You’ll learn a wealth of information to help you maximize your efforts and make sure your inn is running to its full potential.
It’s time for you to reach your full potential! Register for our workshops today. We can’t wait to meet you!
Great list! Thank you Heide. We believe and remind our staff details
matter. First and last impressions are crucial.
Thanks for the refresher, much appreciated.
Heide,
Great advice. We have been in business for 12 years and do everything you suggest above except “triple sheeting” . I am not even sure what that means. Could you provide a bit more detal?
Thanks,
Guy & Clelia
Guy and Clelia,
Thanks for your comments and congratulations on 12 years as Innkeepers at the Wilson House! This article from InnStyle gives a step-by-step process on triple sheeting. http://ow.ly/DI93302m3HJ
Here is a quick guide to the process taken from the InnStyle article above:
1. Cover the mattress with a flat or fitted sheet (Sheet #1).
2. Place the top hem of the flat sheet so it is even with the top of the mattress (Sheet #2).
3. Place a lightweight blanket on top of the middle sheet – 6 inches below the top of the mattress.
4. Place a decorative top sheet on top of the blanket. The top hem should be even with the top of the mattress (Sheet #3).
5. Fold both flat sheets down together about 6 inches (blank should not be included in this fold). Then fold the 2 flat sheets and the blanket down another 6 inches.
6. Tuck in both flat sheets with the blanket beneath the foot of the mattress. The hanging fabric at the sides of the foot will have made a U-Shape. Turn back the U-shape along the length of the bed and pull towards the headboard – parallel to the mattress. Tuck the hanging corners of the sheet and blanket together under the mattress.
If the process still vexes you, a great option would be to call a property that practices triple sheeting. Feel free to contact us if you would like us to put you in touch with Innkeepers that could offer more information on the process.
Keep up the great work at the Wilson House.
Best regards,
Heide