By Erik Spence, ALP Conference & Event Planner

In the idyllic world of bed and breakfasts, where warm hospitality meets quaint charm, it's easy for successful establishments to fall into the trap of complacency. When the financial books are balanced, and guests continue to fill the rooms, it's tempting to sit back, relax, and assume that the status quo will persist. However, in the fiercely competitive landscape of hospitality, where new trends emerge and traveler expectations evolve, a bed and breakfast that is merely 'doing okay' must resist the urge to settle into cruise control. Let's explore why and how your flourishing B&B can stay ahead of the curve.

The Competitive Race:

Imagine your bed and breakfast as a classic car cruising along a scenic highway. The engine purrs smoothly, the passengers are content, and the road seems clear. However, in the world of business, the road is never truly empty. There are always competitors striving to overtake you, offering fresh experiences, innovative amenities, and personalized touches that captivate potential guests.

Analogously, while your B&B may be on a stable financial trajectory, resting on laurels is akin to engaging cruise control on a winding road. Sure, you might maintain your speed, but you risk missing out on the exhilarating turns and detours that can set your establishment apart. To truly surpass the competition, you need to step off cruise control and actively navigate the dynamic market.

Guest Expectations are Ever-Changing:

Travelers today are a discerning bunch. They seek experiences that go beyond a comfortable bed and a hearty breakfast. The modern guest craves unique, Instagram-worthy moments and expects a stay that aligns with their values and preferences. Staying relevant means understanding and adapting to these shifting expectations.

Consider the analogy of a car equipped with cutting-edge technology. While your B&B may have been at the forefront of amenities when it opened, it's essential to continually upgrade and introduce fresh elements to stay in the race. Invest in technology, eco-friendly practices, and unique experiences to ensure your guests don't find your competitors' offerings more appealing.

Embrace New Technology:

Just as a car benefits from regular maintenance and upgrades, your bed and breakfast should embrace the latest technology to enhance the guest experience. From an efficient online booking system to personalized communication and smart room amenities, technology can elevate your establishment to new heights. A modern traveler expects seamless integration of tech into their stay, and falling behind in this aspect can lead to a decline in guest satisfaction.

Embrace Old Technology:

In the fast-paced race of hospitality, an innkeeper's response to the ringing phone is like a well-timed pit stop during a high-stakes car race. The phone is not merely a device; it's the direct line connecting the inn to potential guests and opportunities. Answering that call promptly is like executing a flawless pit crew maneuver, ensuring that the engine of customer satisfaction keeps running smoothly. In this race against competitors, the innkeeper's ability to answer inquiries promptly and with warmth can be the decisive moment that propels the establishment ahead. It's not just about picking up the phone; it's about seizing the chance to rev up guest engagement, leaving competitors in the dust and securing a winning position in the ever-competitive hospitality circuit. You may be busy now, but filling rooms months from now drives your business forward even more.

Keep Asking for Directions:

Do you really know where you are driving to? Never underestimate your peer network of innkeepers.  Joining associations and attending conferences are the BEST ways to find ‘your people’ - those who understand your challenges, those who have been in your shoes, and those who have come out ahead.  The passion of innkeeping is like very few other professions.  Spend time with others like you.  Once you do, you’ll put heads in beds faster than you ever have before, but sometimes you just need to swallow some pride and ask for directions.

Don’t Slow Down Now:

In the journey of running a successful bed and breakfast, it's crucial to recognize that the road to continued success is anything but linear. Staying on cruise control might seem comfortable, but it won't propel your establishment to new heights. By continually assessing and meeting evolving guest expectations, embracing innovation, and navigating the twists and turns of the competitive landscape, your bed and breakfast can not only maintain its financial stability but also emerge as a leader in the industry. So, resist the allure of complacency, step on the accelerator, and steer your B&B towards a future filled with growth and success.