Guest Engagement Tips: Connect Before, During, and After the Stay

Engaging your guests is one of the best ways to create memorable stays and encourage positive reviews. However, it's more than just offering a clean and comfortable space. True guest engagement begins long before the keys are handed over and continues well after check-out.

The beauty of guest engagement is that it doesn't have to be complicated or overly time-consuming. With a little effort, you can make each visitor feel like they're your top priority. In this guide, we'll explore simple and effective guest engagement activities to help you leave a lasting impression.

1. Make a Warm First Impression

The guest experience starts well before their arrival. Once someone books your property, a friendly and welcoming message goes a long way. Send a personalized confirmation email or message introducing yourself, sharing your excitement about hosting them, and providing helpful information about the property. Include details like check-in instructions, local tips, and anything that will make them feel at ease before they even step foot inside.

Another great touch is asking your guests if they have any special requests. Do they need transportation from the airport? Would they appreciate restaurant recommendations? This kind of proactive communication shows you're invested in their comfort and satisfaction.

2. Use Social Media to Build Pre-Stay Excitement

Social media platforms are a powerful tool for guest engagement. If your property has a social media presence, invite your upcoming guests to follow you. Post photos and videos of your space, local attractions, or upcoming events that might interest them. This helps build excitement and offers a visual sneak peek of what's in store.

For guests who enjoy sharing their travels online, you can even encourage them to tag your property or use a custom hashtag. This not only increases your property's visibility but also helps your guests feel more connected to their upcoming adventure.

Encourage guests to interact with your business

3. Offer a Warm Welcome Upon Arrival

First impressions matter, and how your guests feel upon arrival sets the tone for their entire stay. If you're meeting them in person, greet them with a smile and walk them through any important details about the home. If you have a self-check-in option, a thoughtfully crafted welcome message or a personal note inside the property can have a similar effect.

Going above and beyond with a small welcome basket, including local drinks and snacks, adds a personal touch that guests are sure to appreciate. These little gestures show that you've put thought into their visit and aren't just offering a generic stay.

4. Be Available and Responsive During the Stay

During the guest's stay, it's crucial to maintain an open line of communication. Make sure guests know how to reach you if they have any questions or concerns, whether through a phone number, messaging app, or email. Being responsive to their needs makes guests feel secure and well taken care of, even if they never have to reach out.

You can also check in with them mid-stay with a brief, friendly message. Ask if everything is going smoothly or if there's anything else they need. Sometimes, issues come up that guests might not voice unless prompted. Offering solutions or showing your willingness to help builds trust and shows that you're genuinely concerned about their experience.

Guest engagement activities in the hospitality industry

5. Create Unique Experiences to Elevate the Stay

Another great way to foster guest engagement is by offering experiences guests couldn't get elsewhere. Whether it's suggestions for local tours, arranging a unique activity, or providing a list of insider spots that aren't on typical tourist itineraries, these thoughtful additions can make a guest's stay truly special.

Consider creating a personalized guidebook for your guests. Include your favorite restaurants, hiking spots, or the best time to visit the nearby farmers' market. Tailoring these suggestions based on the time of year or the type of guest (families, couples, solo travelers) shows that you've put effort into making their stay as unique as possible.

6. Leave a Lasting Impression at Check-Out

The end of your guest's stay is just as important as the beginning. A smooth and easy check-out process leaves guests with a positive final impression. Provide clear instructions for check-out, but keep them simple and respectful of your guest's time. The last thing anyone wants is to feel overwhelmed by a lengthy list of chores before they leave.

Consider following up after check-out with a heartfelt thank-you message. Let your guests know that you enjoyed hosting them, and invite them to return in the future. If appropriate, offer a small discount for future stays or encourage them to book directly with you next time. This leaves a door open for continued communication and future bookings.

7. Keep the Connection Alive

Even after your guests leave, you have an opportunity to maintain that relationship. Send a follow-up email or message a day or two after they've left, thanking them for choosing your property. This is also a great time to ask for feedback or a review. Make it easy by providing a direct link to your review platform or a quick survey. Guests are more likely to leave feedback if the process is straightforward and timely.

If you really want to go above and beyond, consider sending a personalized holiday message or special offer later in the year. Staying on your guests' radar without being pushy helps build a long-term connection and increases the chances that they'll remember you when planning future travels.

Engage hotel guests via social media channels

Guest Engagement Is Key to Memorable Stays

Guest engagement is more than just answering questions or providing a clean space; it's about making your guests feel seen and appreciated throughout their entire journey. From the moment they book to well after they leave, every interaction is an opportunity to create meaningful connections.

With Houfy's direct booking solution, you can easily maintain personal relations without the hassle of third-party platforms. Direct communication through Houfy allows you to build trust or handle special requests with your guests. Not on Houfy yet? Join a community of more than 15,000 homeowners and watch your business thrive!