Become a peak season sensei: Tips for riding the wave
Peak season can be a double-edged sword for property managers. While it can bring steady cash flow and job security, it can also present unique challenges. From increased bookings, staffing, and guest expectations, here are some tips that can help you navigate the peak season rush.
Maximizing revenue during peak season
By leveraging data to identify peak periods, you can adjust rates in real-time based on demand with dynamic pricing.
Consider adjusting minimum stay requirements based on booking data analysis to maximize average daily rates and occupancy during peak season. By offering package deals with gifts or experiences, you can increase average booking value, and early booking discounts encourage guests to secure their preferred dates ahead of time. By focusing on high-demand properties and understanding your guests by market, you can tailor marketing efforts and amenities to make the biggest impact.
Analyzing data, trends and rental projections can give the most accurate view of your position in the market in real time. By transforming raw data into clear, easy-to-understand reports, property managers can make data-driven decisions, and optimize their operations.
We recommend Key Data for empowering property managers with actionable insights. By transforming raw data into clear, easy-to-understand reports, property managers can make data-driven decisions, and optimize their operations.
Managing Increased Bookings and Staffing
Lean on technology like property management software and automation tools to streamline operations to be able to handle a surge in bookings. Consider your schedule and how to effectively use it to optimize your resources and avoid over or understaffing.
Back-of-house operations can be notoriously challenging to manage. Offloading and automating certain tasks can help free up your team’s bandwidth to tackle things on the ground instead. It’s okay to focus on what you do best, and leave things you can delegate to the pros! By implementing efficient strategies, you can create a back-of-house operation that supports your business's growth.
For guest communication and to keep your operations running efficiently, sojo recommends Breezeway to get full visibility into tasks, streamline workflows, and track inventory levels.
A company is only as strong as its team, so making sure you have the right people on the frontline of your operations is key. Hiring seasonal staff to support the extra workload, and providing in-depth and cross-training can empower your team with the skills to handle the peak season rush.
For building a rockstar team, sojo recommends Better Talent. Their integrated platform and recruiting professionals ensure you are hiring team members who not only possess the right skills but also align with your company culture.
Going the Extra Mile
Be sure to provide detailed, timely, and consistent communication. Sharing clear and frequent updates and check-in instructions can help avoid delays and frustrations. Offer additional amenities like welcome baskets (or bundles!), and upgraded toiletries to impress guests.
It also pays off to be proactive and prepared for emergencies by equipping teams with a plan for unexpected issues. From property damage or guest emergencies, having a resolution plan already in place helps keep guests, owners, and teams safe and happy.
By following these tips, you can transform peak season from a stressful whirlwind into a rewarding opportunity. Not only will you maximize revenue and occupancy, but you'll also create a positive guest experience that fosters loyalty and referrals, reduces churn, and encourages a positive team culture. Remember, with the right strategies and tools, you can ride the peak season wave like a seasoned pro.
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sojo is an Amenity Automation Platform for Vacation Rentals. With more than 20k properties on our integrated platform, we’re able to support property managers and their staff to keep turn days automated and the products a welcome surprise to their guests.
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