Marketing Ideas for Innkeepers
We've put together some resources that might help demystify the Internet and maximize your marketing budget.
Also here are some resources and marketing ideas that can help you reach more potential visitors.
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| In November 2005, Shirley Peck was asked to speak at the annual ESBBA (Empire State Bed & Breakfast Association in New York State) meeting. The talk was about Search Engine Optimization, more specifically, "If You Build a Website, Will they Come?"
It was very interesting to see that using the same search criteria on different search engines, the results were decidedly varied. The spiders that the search engines use to determine placement have different importance placed on
different criteria, so keywords and metatags play a very important role in each website. Since the percentage of travelers who look for lodging on the Internet increases each year, it is vital that Innkeepers make the most of their websites and wisely spend their marketing budget. It is definitely worth it, in the long run, to have your website designed by a professional web developer.
Although, Cousin Harry can buy a website development package like Dreamweaver at Staples, chances are, the final product won't look as professional as it could. Believe it or not, people often judge a B&B by its website! Also, if there is any money in the budget, innkeepers should spend it for a professional photographer. They can make a huge difference in presenting your property in the best light. Free tip: It is best to have your inn photographed at dusk with the lights on inside. The effect from outside is spectacular! Very warm and inviting! |
| Bed & Breakfasts are best known by their warm and friendly innkeepers along with the delightful accomodations. People who choose to stay at a bed & breakfast often make their choice as a result of word of mouth. You can't ask for a better marketing tool than a previous guest! It is a good idea to leave out a "guest book" where your visitors can sign in and leave comments about their stay with you.
Try to always get your guest's email address along with their mailing address so that you can alert them about upcoming special rates or events and keep them on the "radar'. When asked by a friend for a suggestion of a place to stay, your inn will be in the forefront of their mind! |
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We previously sponsored independent tracking studies to provide information about how Innkeepers are using this medium. Many Innkeepers have told us that the results have been informative, interesting and useful. If you want to participate in future studies please drop us a note.
- Some Innkeeper Resources
- Use of the Internet by Innkeepers - Research Tracking Studies
- Click here to read the 1997 findings
- Click here to read the 1998 findings
- Click here to read the 1999 findings
- Click here to read the 2000 findings
- Click here to read the 2001 findings
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