10 Proven strategies to drive more direct bookings to your hotel

As a hotel owner or manager, depending on OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) can feel like a necessary compromise. While they do provide visibility, their high commissions and lack of customer loyalty can significantly impact your profits. In contrast, direct bookings offer better margins, greater control, and the chance to foster meaningful relationships with your guests. So, how can you encourage more guests to book directly through your channels? Here are 10 effective strategies to help you achieve that goal.

1. Optimize your hotel website for conversions

Make sure it is:

• Mobile-friendly: With over 50% of bookings made on mobile devices, your website must be responsive and easy to navigate.

• Fast-loading: A slow website can frustrate users and lead to lost bookings.

• User-friendly: Simplify the booking process with clear CTAs (Call-to-Actions) and minimal steps.

• Invest in high-quality visuals, detailed descriptions, and testimonials to build trust and attract potential guests.

2. Leverage Google hotel ads and metasearch platforms

Metasearch platforms like Google Hotel Ads are crucial for competing with OTAs. They enable potential guests to compare prices and book directly with your hotel.

• Maintain price parity with OTAs to stay competitive.

• Utilize targeted campaigns to showcase the benefits of direct booking.

3. Offer direct-only perks

Provide guests with a strong incentive to book directly by offering perks such as:

• Free upgrades or breakfast.

• Early check-in or late check-out.

• Exclusive discounts or packages.

Make sure these benefits are prominently displayed on your website and marketing materials.

4. Build a strong loyalty program

Encourage repeat bookings by establishing a loyalty program that rewards guests who book directly. Points-based systems, personalized offers, or tiered benefits can motivate guests to return.

5. Focus on SEO and content marketing

An SEO-optimized website helps your hotel rank higher on search engines, making it easier for travellers to discover you.

6. Retarget potential guests with ads

Retargeting ads are an effective way to reconnect with users who visited your website but didn’t make a reservation.

• Remind them of your hotel’s unique features.

• Emphasize special discounts or limited-time offers to create a sense of urgency.

7. Harness the power of social media

Social media platforms are perfect for engaging potential guests and showcasing your property.

• Share captivating visuals, behind-the-scenes content, and guest testimonials.

• Run targeted ads to reach travellers interested in your location.

• Consistently promote the perks of booking directly with you.

8. Collect and use guest data

Having access to your guest data enables you to create tailored marketing campaigns.

• Utilize email campaigns to present special promotions or seasonal discounts.

• Customize offers based on previous stays or preferences.

• Unlike OTAs, direct bookings provide you with complete guest information, making it easier to foster long-term relationships.

9. Invest in online reviews and reputation management

Positive online reviews significantly influence booking decisions.

• Encourage happy guests to leave reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, and your website.

• Quickly address negative feedback to showcase excellent customer service.

• Highlight positive reviews prominently on your website to build trust and credibility.

10. Use upselling and cross-selling tactics

During the booking process, suggest add-ons like spa packages, dinner reservations, or sightseeing tours.

• Bundle experiences with room bookings for added value.

• Implement dynamic pricing to showcase potential savings when booking directly.

Take Control of Your Bookings with Groivy

At Groivy, we focus on helping hotels like yours boost direct bookings through effective strategies and innovative tools. From optimizing your website to data-driven marketing, we empower you to take charge of your revenue and cultivate lasting guest relationships.

Ready to elevate your bookings? Contact Groivy today, and let us assist you in crafting a direct booking strategy that suits your needs.