Come risparmiare commissioni Booking?

Ditch the Booking.com Fees: Turning Platform Guests into Loyal Direct Bookers

Booking.com is a powerful tool for reaching a vast audience, but its commission fees can significantly eat into your profits. While the platform provides invaluable visibility, the key to long-term success lies in strategically converting Booking.com-sourced guests into loyal direct customers. This allows you to gradually lessen your dependence on the platform and keep more money in your pocket.

The good news is, achieving this doesn’t require black magic or shady tactics. It’s about building genuine relationships and offering compelling reasons for guests to choose you directly next time. Here’s how you can ditch the Booking.com fees and build a thriving direct booking business:

1. The Power of First Impressions: Exceed Expectations

Before you even think about direct bookings, ensure your guests have an outstanding experience during their initial stay booked through Booking.com. This is your opportunity to showcase your property and build trust. Go above and beyond with personalized service, impeccable cleanliness, and a genuine commitment to making their stay memorable. This positive experience lays the foundation for future loyalty.

2. Cultivate the Connection: Communicate Effectively

Communication is key. After booking, but before their arrival, engage with guests personally (within Booking.com’s guidelines). Offer helpful information about the local area, answer their questions promptly, and demonstrate that you care about their experience. This personal touch differentiates you from larger hotels and fosters a feeling of connection.

3. The In-Stay Advantage: Planting the Seed

During their stay, subtly introduce the benefits of booking directly. This doesn’t mean bombarding them with promotional material, but rather subtly mentioning it in conversation. For example:

• “We’re so glad you’re enjoying your stay! If you decide to come back, booking directly through our website often offers exclusive deals and perks.”
• Leave a tasteful card in their room highlighting your website and social media channels.
• Train your staff to mention direct booking options when guests inquire about extending their stay.

4. Incentivize Direct Bookings: Make it Worth Their While

The most compelling reason for guests to book directly is value. Offer incentives that are more attractive than Booking.com’s benefits. Consider offering:

• Exclusive discounts: A percentage off the direct booking rate.
• Free upgrades: Offer a room upgrade based on availability.
• Value-added extras: Free breakfast, complimentary welcome drinks, or a free activity.
• Loyalty programs: Reward repeat direct bookers with exclusive perks.

5. Post-Stay Engagement: Nurturing the Relationship

After their stay, send a personalized thank-you email. Ask for feedback (which is invaluable for improving your service) and explicitly mention the benefits of booking directly next time, providing a clear call to action with a link to your website. Consider segmenting your email list to offer tailored incentives based on their preferences.

6. Streamline Your Website: Make Booking Direct Easy

Ensure your website is user-friendly, mobile-responsive, and easy to navigate. Your booking engine should be seamless and secure. Showcase high-quality photos of your property and highlight the benefits of booking direct prominently.

7. Promote Your Website: Get Found!

Actively promote your website through social media, local partnerships, and SEO (Search Engine Optimization). Make sure your website is easy to find when potential guests search for accommodation in your area.

The Long Game: Reduced Reliance, Increased Profits

Turning Booking.com guests into direct bookers is a long-term strategy that requires patience and consistent effort. By focusing on building relationships, providing exceptional experiences, and offering compelling incentives, you can significantly reduce your reliance on the platform and increase your profitability. It’s an investment in your business that will pay dividends for years to come.