The holiday season is one of the most busy times of year for any hospitality company or hotel. Travel across the country increases to peak levels as families and friends gather to celebrate the season. As a hotel you need to be ready to meet the demands of your guests and react to any issues that may come up quickly and efficiently. With a little planning ahead of time, you can help keep your customers happy and your staff working at their highest level.

Promotion
Make sure to start advertising holiday deals right now. The key to selling out every room is to be out there on your website and social media letting people know they have the perfect holiday room at your hotel. Plus, the holidays now extend into January so New Year’s and Mid-winter offers are becoming more and more popular. And don’t be afraid to launch last-minute deals. There are always people searching up until the final moments looking for accommodations.

Preparation
The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the busiest day of the year for many hotels. Make sure you have extra staff to meet high demands and extra people working the front desk and phones that day. But also make sure to increase your staffing for the whole month of December. You don’t want any angry customers this time of year. You want them have to a great experience with your hotel as they head into 2014.

Planning
Make sure your staff is ready with helpful tips on dining, shopping, and attractions for your guests who will be looking to go out and spend a little more money than usual this time of year. Where’s the best Thanksgiving dinner nearby? What are the holiday events happening around you? Get in tune with what’s happening outside your hotel doors.