Have you ever wondered whether there are gaps in your knowledge when it comes to running a successful B&B business?
Would it surprise you to know that hardly anyone has all their ducks in a row and most are challenged by the lack of consistent bookings, paying too much commission to online travel agents, feast/famine cycles of the high season/low season
And what’s more they don’t know what to do about these challenges
I had these challenges too until I discovered the formula and when I began to apply it in my own B&B, my business took off and the rest, as they say, is history.
Here’s the formula…
Step #1 Strategy
The first step is determining WHO you want to welcome and WHY they would choose you. This means some deep reflection on the value you offer and putting it in front of the guests you can best serve, and forgetting about everyone else.
You see, in my experience, most owners are trying to appeal to anybody and everybody and the reality is that they appeal to no-one in particular, so they drop their prices and start competing with other properties.
It’s a dead-end street that will leave you frustrated and broke.
Step #2 Structure
Once you’ve identified who you want to welcome, it’s time to create an amazing experience for them, that will consistently result in 5* reviews and many repeat guests.
When you don’t define WHO you want to welcome, you can’t really deliver on a great experience every time, because you don’t have a deep understanding of who your guests are, and what they want.
Most owners are brilliant hosts, but often fail to nail this piece and anxiety creeps in.
Step #3 Systems
With your ideal guest in mind, and a great experience nailed, you’ll then need technology and systems to free up your time, while still giving your guests an amazing experience, from the moment they book to the moment they leave you.
There are 3 systems you’ll need to have in place to make your life easier – your system for attracting new guests (without online travel agents), your system for making sure your booked in guests spend more money with you that will make their stay more enjoyable, and a system to make compelling offers so they’ll return.
These 3 systems form the “engine” of your business and when properly implemented and running, will ensure your future security, no matter what the outside world is doing.
Step #4 Scale
Now for the “cherry on top”. When you’ve followed the previous 3 steps you’ll now have a business that runs like a “well oiled machine”, with a database of guests – past, present and future, and your income steadily rising.
Now you can turn your attention to anything else you’d like to create or add to your business.
Seriously you’re only limited by your imagination here, because with your engine running, it’s easy to expand and grow with another passion.
Why not take our B&B Money Maker Quiz to see how well you’re doing on all 4 areas, and get a free 15 minute consultation with Yvonne Halling, award-winning coach and mentor, so you’ll know what gaps need plugging.
