Bossily
In association with:
Boostly offers online training, content creation, Wordpress website design and CPD-accredited marketing services to thousands of hospitality businesses worldwide. Boostly’s mission is to help hosts and property management companies cut down on their over reliance on OTAs and boost their direct bookings.
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Mark Simpson founded Boostly in 2016 with the intent to empower property owners and managers by providing them with the tools, knowledge and resources needed to grow their brand's presence online and boost their direct bookings.
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At its core, Boostly is built on the belief that direct bookings are the most profitable and sustainable form of revenue for hospitality businesses. By reducing dependency on third-party booking sites, which often take significant cuts from each reservation, businesses can increase their margins and have greater control over their bookings and guest experiences.
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Boostly has had a significant impact on the hospitality industry by helping numerous businesses increase their direct bookings, thereby improving their profitability. The company's approach to marketing is both strategic and practical, focusing on long-term growth and sustainability. By fostering a community of educated and empowered business owners, Boostly is not just a service provider but a partner in the success of its clients.
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Website Design
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Recognising the importance of a strong online presence, Boostly offers bespoke website design services tailored to the hospitality industry. These websites are optimised for search engines and user experience, ensuring that they not only attract visitors but also convert them into guests by facilitating direct bookings.
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Content Creation
Content is king in the digital world, and Boostly understands this well. Boostly provides content creation that resonates with the target audience, including blog posts, social media content, and email marketing campaigns, all designed to engage potential guests and bring them closer to making a booking.
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Social Media Marketing
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With the vast majority of consumers using social media to make purchasing decisions, Boostly helps property managers and hosts leverage platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to boost bookings. This involves creating and sharing engaging content, running targeted ad campaigns and interacting with the community to build brand awareness and loyalty.
Training Programmes
One of Boostly's most unique offerings is its comprehensive training programmes for hospitality business owners. These programmes cover various aspects of digital marketing, from SEO and content marketing to social media strategies and email marketing. The aim is to empower property owners with the knowledge and skills needed to take control of their own marketing efforts.
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Book Direct
There is a dedicated book direct movement within the short-term rentals industry – with online platforms, social media accounts, and events dedicated to the subject.
While third-party booking platforms play a significant role in the short-term rental industry, encouraging direct bookings can be mutually beneficial for both guests and property owners, fostering a more personalised and cost-effective experience.
Booking direct for a short-term rental – meaning guests make reservations directly through the property owner or management's website or contact channels – offers several advantages for both guests and property owners.
Here are some key benefits:
Advantages for guests
Better rates
Booking directly often allows guests to access the best rates and promotions. Property owners can offer discounts or exclusive deals to incentivize direct bookings since they don't have to pay third-party booking platform fees.
Direct communication
Guests have direct communication with the property owner or management. This can lead to a more personalised experience, with the ability to ask questions, make special requests, and receive prompt responses.
Flexibility and special requests
Booking direct increases the likelihood that guests can negotiate terms, such as flexible check-in or check-out times, and make special requests. Property owners may have more flexibility to accommodate unique needs.
Transparent policies
Direct bookings often come with more transparent cancellation and refund policies. Guests can have a clearer understanding of the property's terms and conditions, helping them make informed decisions.
Exclusive offers and packages
Property owners may provide exclusive offers, packages, or add-on services when guests book directly. This could include complimentary amenities, local experiences, or discounts on additional services.
Loyalty programmes
Some property owners offer loyalty programs for repeat customers who book directly. Loyalty programmes may include discounts, free nights, or other perks for guests who choose to stay with the property again.
Advantages for property owners
Reduced fees
Booking through third-party platforms often incurs substantial fees. By encouraging guests to book directly, property owners can avoid or reduce these fees, leading to increased revenue.
Direct relationship with guests
Booking direct allows property owners to establish a direct relationship with their guests. This connection can result in better communication, increased guest satisfaction, and the potential for positive reviews and referrals.
Data ownership
When guests book through third-party platforms, those platforms often retain guest data. Booking direct allows property owners to own and utilise guest information for marketing purposes, building a database for future outreach.
Brand control
Property owners can better control their brand image and presentation when guests book directly. This includes showcasing property amenities, providing accurate information, and maintaining a consistent brand experience.
Flexibility in terms
Property owners have more flexibility in setting and negotiating terms when guests book directly. This includes adjusting pricing, offering personalised packages, and accommodating specific guest requests.
Customised upselling
Property owners can use direct bookings to upsell additional services or amenities. Whether it's transportation services, special packages, or local experiences, owners can tailor offerings to individual guests.
Immediate cash flow
Direct bookings often result in faster payment and immediate cash flow for property owners. This can be particularly beneficial for smaller businesses or individual property owners who may rely on timely income.
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Further reading:
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