How to generate more direct bookings with your website

Why focus on more direct bookings?

As a lodge owner or manager, you may be aware that online travel agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com and Expedia can bring in a lot of business. However, relying solely on OTAs can mean sacrificing control over your own brand, revenue and margins. That’s why it’s important to focus on generating more direct bookings through your own website.

5 ways to increase direct bookings

  1. Optimize your website for search engines (SEO) to increase visibility and attract more potential guests.
  2. Use professional photography and videography to showcase your property and create an emotional connection with visitors.
  3. Implement a user-friendly booking system that allows guests to easily make reservations and view available dates.
  4. Offer incentives and exclusive deals to incentivize guests to book directly through your website.
  5. Invest in targeted digital advertising campaigns to reach your ideal audience and drive traffic to your website.
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Professional photography and video is essential to convince online bookers to choose you

Is your website good enough?

Before anything else, evaluate the quality of your website:

Is the essential information easily accessible?
Are the photos and videos updated and representative of the guest experience?
Is the booking process user-friendly?

Are the rates easy to understand?

Cheap websites might get expensive

It’s essential to assess whether your website meets the speed and SEO standards required to rank highly in search results. GoDaddy or Wix websites may not be sufficient to compete effectively.

Consider your clients’ expectations regarding website quality. Ultimately, your website should persuade your target audience to make a booking, not just showcase your work. Does your website achieve this goal?

How to build a website that will generate bookings

Making a website yourself can be challenging. You may have limited design skills, which can lead to a less professional-looking site. Additionally, updating and maintaining the site can be time-consuming, taking away from other important aspects of your business. And without expertise in search engine optimization (SEO), your website may struggle to rank highly in search results, making it difficult for potential guests to find you.

On the other hand, hiring a professional website designer has many benefits. With their help, you can create a website that stands out with an eye-catching design, user-friendly interface, and SEO optimization to boost search engine rankings. Plus, a professional designer can save you time and hassle by handling updates and maintenance for you, allowing you to focus on running your business.

Overall, while making a website yourself may seem like a more budget-friendly option, investing in a professional website designer can pay off in the long run by attracting more guests and boosting your business’s success.