Adding That Personal Touch

Among the sea of options for vacationers, it is important to attract new guests. It is equally as important to gain repeat guests or guests who will refer you to a friend or family member. It is no big marketing secret that the best way to grow a business is to nurture the business you currently have.

That is why taking a little extra time outside of your marketing to add a personal touch to your guests stay will go a long way. Here are some tried and true ways successful vacation homeowners have put the finishing touches on their guests stay that went a long way in making their vacation home both enjoyable and memorable.

1.) If you don't already have business cards, pamphlets or brochures take a little extra time and money to get some made. These materials can be left in strategic locations, perhaps with a suggestions/comment card, that will encourage your guests to take them and pass them on to friends or family.

2.) Keeping the lines of communication open for your guests to voice their concerns during the stay is helpful too. This doesn't mean you have to come at their beck and call. Most guests will be happy to have been heard, so make sure they have a number or an email to reach you at and respond in a timely manner.

3.) Go to local restaurants and shops and invite them to offer coupons to your guests to help them save a little money while on vacation. This is essentially free advertising for their establishment that offers a way for them to directly reach their target market. Make sure it is a place that you yourself would enjoy. If you are referring your guests to an establishment you want to make sure it reflects the kind of service you would offer direct if you could.

4.) Make sure the cupboards, fridge and toiletries are stocked. Think of all different scenarios for what your guests may want to cook or clean while staying in your guest home. Perishables they can purchase themselves, but if you can save them the hassle of purchasing every item needed to make a cup of coffee, you have given them more time to spend vacationing and less time running errands.

5.) A gift basket full of various inexpensive snacks or drinks is also a great way to say "we appreciate your stay!"

6.) Keep track of local events, concerts, festivals, etc. so that you can offer your guests plenty of ideas on what to do during their stay. Your booking process could even inquire about hobbies and favorite pastimes so that you could do a quick search for events or attractions relating to their special interests that they may enjoy.

Of course, no matter what you decide to do, adding a personal touch means taking a little extra time out of your day to concern yourself with the needs of others. Ultimately, if you are a considerate and gracious host, you are sure to send the right message to your guests. That message being; "You are valued." And by letting your guests know their business is appreciated you are providing incentive that will more likely lead to a referral or repeat stay.

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