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How to increase pick up in your hotel room block!

Magdalena Bonnelly • September 13, 2023

No meeting planner wants to face attrition charges for their conference. Here is how you can increase your room block pick up. 

- Exclusive Discounts: Offer special concessions for early birds i.e. complimentary rooms (covered by 1 per 40 or 45 comp  concession).  Everyone loves a good deal!
- Bundled Benefits: Package room bookings with perks like free Wi-Fi, breakfast vouchers, or shuttle services.
- Centralized Activities: Convenience is a major draw. Have your main events/general session scheduled at one hotel. 
- Clear Communication: Emphasize the importance and benefits of booking within the block in all conference communications.
- Booking Portal: Implement a simple, user-friendly online booking portal (hotels create personalized web page for your group and provide link). Make the reservation process hassle-free.
- Customized Experience: Collaborate with the hotel for tailored experiences.
- Frequent Reminders: Gently remind attendees of the approaching booking deadlines via emails or notifications.
- Real-time Monitoring: Regularly check pick-up reports and pro-actively strategize with hotel if there is possibility of attrition. This allows for timely interventions if numbers are lagging.
- Social Testimonials: Share positive experiences or reviews of attendees who've already booked. Peer influence can drive decisions.
- Loyalty Points: strategize with hotel if additional points can be awarded to those who book hotel room by a certain date. 
- Mobile Apps: Leverage conference mobile apps to push notifications about room availability and benefits.
- Flexible Policies: Work with the hotel to offer flexible check-in/check-out times for attendees who book hotel room by certain date. 
- Engage Local: Showcase what's unique about the hotel's location – nearby attractions, restaurants, and activities. Work with Destination Management Organization (CVB) to offer special discount and/or coupons for those who make their reservation by certain date. 
- Transparent Costs: Clearly communicate all costs, including any additional fees or taxes, so attendees aren't caught off guard.
- Feedback Loop: After the event, solicit feedback on the hotel experience. This insight can inform strategies for future events.
- Early Bird Perks: Reward early bookings with exclusive perks or offers.
- Engaging Visuals: Use engaging photos or videos to showcase the hotel’s amenities, rooms, and experiences.
- Ambassadors: Identify and engage conference ambassadors or influencers who can promote the benefits of booking within the block.
- Personal Touch: A personalized email or message can make attendees feel valued and more likely to book.

Remember, the key to a successful room block pick-up is a combination of great offers, convenience, and constant communication. Happy planning!

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