Expanding Your Property to Appeal to Business Travelers
Many vacation rental owners forget that not everyone has the luxury of
traveling solely for pleasure. Though most marketing strategies point toward
leisure travelers, the business travelers are making up 23% of the vacation and
travel industry according to the US Travel Association.
Recent polls have also shown that approximately 40% of all
travelers (business and leisure) plan and prefer staying in vacation rentals
compared to hotels, and that number is only rising.
So, the big question. How can you make your vacation rental
appeal to business travellers in a few simple steps?
#1: Connect- WIFI
The biggest hurdle for business travelers is staying
connected. Not only do many leisure travelers deem Wifi as a necessity, but it
is almost a requirement for business travelers. Making this a widely known
feature will not only appeal to business travelers, but also to families
traveling with teens who want to stay connected.
#2: Space- Work &
Relax
If you are marketing to business travelers, and you want
them to come back, be sure to include comfortable sleeping and relaxing
quarters in addition to a work space. Where many of your leisure travelers may
not expect to see a desk, business travelers will appreciate the attention to
detail and will be a feature that many will remember, and come back to. If you
have an area set aside for business and even meetings, be sure to highlight it
on your website or listings.
#3: Inspiration
Much of the reason that business travelers are switching
from primarily hotels to vacation rentals is due to the fact that there is
often more inspiration in the environment. Just because accommodations are
functional and comfortable doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Business travel
isn’t all bad, and doesn’t have to be about sitting around in a sterile hotel
room or office the entire time. Providing a unique experience can inspire
creativity and concentration.
#4: Commute
Giving specific times for traveling to the center of the
city, to the airport, or other nearby cities. Most travelers are visiting areas
they have never been to before, making it a very helpful tip to include
standard travel times. Mentioning favorite transportation resources and
providing numbers for taxi services also goes a long way.
#5: Work then Enjoy
No work trip will be completely business, yet many business travelers forget
that. Highlighting the relaxing, fun, or interesting things to do around your
property as a good retreat option. Showcasing the good food options, best
scenic areas, and attractions can go far in bringing all kinds of travelers to
your property, and will leave a lasting mark in their memory to tell their
friends and visit again.
By taking the time now to establish your vacation rental as
a business and leisure friendly retreat, you will come in ahead of the
competition and find your rental growing as the industry of business travelers
does.
Source:
http://www.ustravel.org/news/press-kit/travel-facts-and-statistics