The hotel check-in process has long been an important, albeit tedious step in a hotel guest’s to-do list. But it’s becoming much easier to improve the hotel check-in process thanks to an advancement in user-friendly hotel software systems. Which is good, because improving guest satisfaction is becoming increasingly important for hotels to accomplish.
In fact, the adoption of contactless technology by hotels increased by 66% during the pandemic. As guest sentiment has shifted over the past couple of years, hotels have clearly taken notice. Incorporate the technology recommendations below to start improving your hotel’s check-in process.
1. Offer express, mobile check-in
Adding a white label app for hotels into your hotel’s daily operations is one of the most popular ways to improve the hotel check-in process. With this advanced tech solution, guests can check-in prior to arrival using their own mobile device, completely bypassing the lines at the front desk and giving them more time to explore the property and destination.
You and your hotel staff will also have the chance to spend more time building authentic relationships with guests that aren’t limited to asking for preferred payment methods and ID verification.
In addition to express check-in capabilities, advanced mobile app software also features user-friendly planning tools like an itinerary builder, guest-to-staff direct messaging, and a built-in booking engine that helps reduce OTA reliance and makes it easier for guests to make a reservation to your hotel.
Schedule a hotel mobile app demo.
2. Introduce keyless room entry
Speaking of the check-in line, waiting in long lines to receive a physical room key card doesn’t endorse the beginning of an exciting vacation. So why bring down the high of arriving for a vacation by forcing guests to stand in line?
Introducing the hotel mobile key.
Turning your guests’ mobile device into a secured room key, a digital key lets guests bypass the front desk and enter their hotel room the moment it’s ready. Not only does this contactless check-in solution reduce check-in lines, but it also reduces wasteful plastics and front desk visits to report lost key cards.
Best of all, mobile key software is integrated directly into a mobile app, eliminating the need for guests to download multiple applications. Soon enough, the check-in line will be a thing of the past.
3. Build anticipation for your guests’ arrival
Like we mentioned above, there are plenty of ways to improve the hotel check-in process on property. However, where many hotels miss the mark is improving the pre-arrival process from the moment a booking is made.
The booking confirmation email should be used to set expectations and answer frequently asked questions about the check-in process and hotel policies. It’s also an opportunity to promote your hotel mobile app for a smoother guest check-in experience.
4. Beef up your pre-arrival messaging
Keep the anticipation building with your pre-arrival messaging. In addition to the “We look forward to welcoming you” verbiage, your pre-arrival messaging can (and should) detail the check-in process. What do guests need to provide at check-in? What time is check-in? What should guests expect if they arrive early?
Really, the pre-arrival email should reiterate frequently asked questions about the check-in process and hotel policies. But it’s also an opportunity to build excitement with area guides, provide things to do near your hotel, present news about your hotel, and highlight your hotel’s services and amenities.
5. Make your guests ‘check-in ready’ on the day of arrival
By now, you’ve built anticipation and provided important hotel check-in information for your guests. And the pre check-in email puts a bow on the pre-arrival process. Yes, there is one final email you should be sending to your guests before they arrive at your hotel.
Day of arrival, the pre arrival email should provide all of your hotel’s check-in FAQs and promote mobile app downloads.
With a hotel guest messaging solution, you can easily segment your guest database, create eye-catching messaging templates, and push automated campaigns that are hyper personalized.
Remember, just because someone booked now doesn’t mean they can’t cancel later. Incorporating an automated messaging strategy can help eliminate any second guessing.
Schedule a guest messaging software demo.
6. Encourage guests to book direct
By providing exclusive perks or incentives such as room upgrades, complimentary services, or loyalty program points, you’ll not only encourage guests to book directly through your hotel’s website, but you’ll also streamline the check-in process. When guests book directly, hotels receive important information about their guests that they may not otherwise get if they booked elsewhere.
To make your hotel’s online booking process a breeze, consider using hotel reservation software that:
- Is built mobile first for improved conversions across devices
- Includes real-time data such as room display, room rates, and occupancy
- Is ADA compliant
- Integrates seamlessly with the look and feel of your hotel website
7. Make the check-in process personal
This is where the books-direct encouragement proves even more useful. The information you receive from direct guest bookings can have a significant impact on your pre-arrival messaging. It’s also a useful guide for hotel staff to welcome guests on a more personal level. This personalized touch creates a welcoming atmosphere and enhances the guest experience overall.
