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The hotel industry has been continually growing and becoming more competitive in recent years. As the new year has just started, the hotel industry will undoubtedly face emerging technologies that, in turn, will increase clients’ expectations. To keep up with the changes, hotels must continue to evolve and adapt more digital advancements that can further propel the growth of their business.
That said, here are four areas in the hotel industry that will be highly-influenced by digital trends in 2020.
- Customer service
The future of the hotel industry is now powered by technology. This 2020, the hotel industry will have to adapt to emerging technologies that will help them deliver a better customer experience. The Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the leading digital technologies today that allows staff to track and manage inventory and regulate energy consumption.
The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will also be helpful in guests’ interaction from chatbots to robots that can boost the customer experience. Virtual Reality (VR) is another top digital trend that hoteliers must take advantage of this year. VR creates an immersive world for the guests that are entertaining.
A stronger focus on Facial Recognition technology in the hotel industry is foreseen to allow for faster and easier check-in processes.
- Web design
A majority of people who travel, they often prefer to make online bookings directly with the hotel. Because of this, hoteliers must aim to have an intuitive web design that will make direct bookings much easier and seamless for guests.
Intuitive web design can also capture the attention of users that can convert them into a sale. In 2020, hotel websites must follow a smart web design and a fast and reliable booking system. Not only will this make bookings easier, but it can also push your website ranking higher.
- Local search
Know that most of your online searches will come from local searches, which means that users will search for a hotel along with the area you’re in (i.e., “hotels in London”). Keep in mind that Google is now more user-focused, which means that the search engine ensures that users get the most relevant results.
This year, hoteliers must invest in local SEO strategies that can help them rank higher in local searches. The strategy includes the use of Google My Business (GMB), which is a vital tool to ensure that your business comes up in a local search. The use of GMB can significantly leverage your hotel in 2020.
- Expert guidance
Travellers today seek further advice online when planning for their vacation. Hoteliers must make an effort to establish a live chat option that can accurately respond to guests’ queries that can make their holiday a breeze. A live chat option can even be installed on the website and social media channels. When people notice that you provide helpful responses on various platforms, the more people will trust and recommend your business.
These are the areas where digital trends will be the most relevant and useful in this year for the hotel industry. As the industry continues to boom, hoteliers must keep up with the changing times. These technology advancements will not only bring success and growth to your hotel business, but it can also make your job so much easier.
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