5 top tips for getting VIP hotel service
Everybody enjoys good customer service and no more satisfying getting VIP treatment when staying at a hotel. Here are a few tips from our hotel insider on how to get the most out of your stay and to make your trip a more enjoyable experience.
1. Select a suitable hotel:
You have to be reasonable about what service levels to expect in return for what you pay. Don’t think you can wangle VIP treatment if you are staying in a budget type no-frill type hotel. These hotels won’t have a pool, spa treatment, fitness centre or full-time concierge. Their offering is low prices in exchange for basic facilities and service levels.
So where would you expect VIP treatment? Focus your attention on 3.5-5 star hotels where guest comfort and relaxation is part of the experience. Look for hotels with good facilities such as spa treatments, sauna, pool(s), fitness centre, parking, concierge, hotel porter, restaurant etc. This gives you more chance of taking full advantage of what the hotel has to offer and of course getting the best bang for your euro!
2. First impressions:
Hotel staff are human too! First impressions when you arrive do last and are hard to change. Lose the football jersey and tracksuit bottoms. You have more chance/less hassle getting a free upgrade or whatever you request if you are smartly dressed. Business travellers tend to get looked after better since they could potentially offer repeat and frequent business. Think Don Draper from Mad Men!
Also, little things like the condition of your luggage or arriving by private transfer influence hotel staff perception.
3. Acknowledge:
Working in a hotel is demanding and can be stressful. Respect the hotel staff and show your appreciation by acknowledging their service. Hotel staff welcome compliments and like to hear that their efforts are noticed. They are quick to remember you especially if you have any special requests or need help in any way.
4. Tip early:
Most guests who choose to tip hotel staff tend to do so in one lump sum towards the end of their stay or upon check-out. There is no doubt you will benefit much more by tipping staff immediately or consistently (in smaller tips) throughout your stay. This will guarantee that you will receive their full attention and a quality service.
5. Build rapport:
Talk to the bell boy, waiter, concierge, reservation, housekeeping or any hotel staff that you come into contact. Remember staff are most likely locals from the area and are likely to be very knowledgeable about special offers, good insider tips and suggestions. They might be able to pull a favour or go out of their way to help you, especially if you have been tipping well!
If you follow these five tips you are on a good path to a pleasurable stay and VIP treatment be it free room upgrades, complimentary tickets to a show, free parking , airport drop-off, complimentary champagne, free passes to , discount on dinner, free round of golf and much much more!
Enjoy your stay!
The CityHotels.ie Team
