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5. I will perform Website Optimization to deal with
issues important for turning lookers into bookers (conversion rates) and improve my hotel ranking on search engines. I will make my website more user-friendly (tiered navigation, booking technology, customer support, eCRM features, etc) and prepare it for
search engines (relevant and credible copy, embedded target keywords throughout
site, destination-focused website optimization, domain name strategy, meta tags, description tags, etc).
6. I will carry out a comprehensive Destination Web Strategy to leverage
popularity of my destination for my hotel's benefit. I will identify patterns of consumer purchasing habits for my particular destination and perform destination research to identify relevant target keywords and develop copy with destination-relevant keywords and perform a destination-focused search engine strategy.
7. I will perform a robust Search Engine Strategy because I no longer want to be part of
"Invisible Web". I realize that by improving my website positioning on search engines I can boost direct consumer bookings. I also know that 85% of Internet users rely on search engines to locate information on
Web and in this environment I must rely even more on search engine referrals. I will perform a robust search engine strategy and register my website with 1500 search engines globally and subscribe for monthly re-submission services and make sure search engines find my website as a top 30 hotel listed in my market.
8. I will employ a robust Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Marketing Strategy because I understand that PPC marketing is an ideal direct to consumer channel and an effective “distressed inventory disposal tool”. I know that PPC has become one of
top advertising vehicles used by US marketers and a smart way to position my hotel website as "Sponsored Links" or enhanced listings on top of
search engine results. I know
right PPC strategy will generate
returns I need without burning through my entire annual marketing budget.
9. I will employ a highly targeted, full service Email Marketing Strategy, including customer email capture, monthly eNewsletter and virtual “on-demand” hotel brochure to my permission email list. I understand that email marketing is a crucial component of my direct distribution channel and can create direct revenue opportunities with past, present, and future customers. I will market to existing customers and reach new customers through a coordinated and ongoing email marketing strategy, targeting leisure travelers, meeting planners, and travel agents.
10. I will partner with an experienced eBusiness hospitality consultancy to help me navigate
Internet and utilize direct-to-consumer channels to its fullest potential at minimal cost, with quick turnaround, and by utilizing tools that mistakenly are believed to be available only to
major online players.

Max Starkov is Chief eBusiness Strategist and Jason Price is VP of eMarketing at Hospitality eBusiness Strategies (www.hospitalityebusiness.com) in New York City. Max and Jason combine the best practices in critical areas: travel and Madison Avenue background, and Web experience as founders and CEOs of two Internet start-ups in hospitality and travel. Read more: http://www.hospitalityebusiness.com/team.shtml