Caroline Cooper and Lucy Whittington from the United Kingdom have compiled an easy to read book of practical marketing and training ideas that target smaller hotels, B&Bs and inns. The book offers balanced suggestions on both traditional and online marketing and receives excellent reviews from a range of hospitality professionals in its opening pages.
There are 11 chapters that flow well:
Chapter 1 addresses the traditional product, identifying your probable customer base
Chapter 2 provides the foundation of developing a marketing plan and defining your competitive difference
Chapter 3 reviews the fundamentals of what is essential in website development
Chapter 4 offers a range of communication and promotional ideas for both online and traditional marketing
Chapter 5 discusses the importance of establishing value in offerings
Chapters 6 and 10 identify specific action steps for maximizing online promotions and collaborations in technology
Chapters 7 and 9 review traditional marketing options and the need to present a "high touch" approach
Chapter 8 includes an overview on the importance of networking
The final chapter closes the loop with setting goals, creating the Hotel Success Plan and getting started
Their site @ hotelsuccesshandbook provides additional Success Tools and Tips
It is becoming more complicated to market and operate a smaller property and these two professionals have combined their background and experience to provide a a resource that delivers practical advice that one can use immediately.
As always, feedback or comments are welcome
John J Hogan
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality