Bed and breakfast: how to stay on top of the competition

When running a bed and breakfast, it is vital to keep an eye out for competition, both new and established. All bed and breakfast owners are aware that a widespread reputation by word of mouth is worth its weight in gold. It goes without saying that you have to keep your quality high to maintain your position. By constantly monitoring and improving standards and quality, this will ensure that your guests’ expectations are met and that your reputation is maintained. This means that all the time you have to be determined to improve things in each area, so that the chances of something going wrong or not meeting the expectations of your guests are as miniscule as possible.

One way to monitor the standards in your bed and breakfast and determine if improvements or changes are needed is to invite friends or family to stay for a quiet period. They can test the rooms and common guest areas, to make sure everything is as great as it should be. This can help uncover irritating inconveniences that you were not aware of before. For example, although you can clean the shower every day, only by actually using it will you discover that perhaps the water is suddenly cold or that the shower door is leaking. If it is not possible to invite friends or family, you can try using one of your own guest suites. This will give you an additional perspective on the quality of the room. It’s the little things that matter and you need to be as critical as possible. Have towels seen better days? Are there enough shelves and hanging space? Would the bathroom use an extra towel rack or hook on the back of the door? Do all the drawers open smoothly?

Be sure to critically evaluate the exterior of your bed and breakfast. Does your property have a good external image? Is the paint peeling or are the windows rotting? Has your sign seen better days? Don’t forget to keep lawns cut, edges clean and free of weeds and neglected vegetation, and parking areas in good repair. Good lighting is essential for guests arriving in the dark. Add some potted evergreens for year-round color, as well as cheery planters and hanging baskets in spring and summer. Remember that passing trade may be your next paying guest, but only if your bed and breakfast has an exterior appeal!

The other area that is important to review is your advertising. Remember that every establishment, be it a bed and breakfast in Leicester or a five-star hotel in London, must have a corporate image. This is more than just a sign outside your property. Pay close attention to the brochures and advertisements you are placing in tourist attractions, print media, and online. A recognizable logo and print style will help establish your brand and remember to use this on your letterhead and any other office supplies. Check the grammar, spelling and layout of all your print media; any mistake contributes to a bad brand image and seems unprofessional.

Above all, remember that customers come first. Make your guests feel welcome and treat them with courtesy and respect. Your good reputation will continue to spread and this will be the most powerful tool in maintaining your position in the market, whether you are the owner of a bed and breakfast in Leicester or the manager of a five-star hotel in London.