Real-Life Communication -- Solution
There are some questions you need to ask every guest, of course,
such as when they are arriving and when they are leaving. But by listening
carefully to your guests, you might get hints about other issues could come
up. Here are some questions you'll want to ask Mr. Smith:
Are you
staying for the entire festival?
What night are you arriving?
What
day are you planning to leave?
Do you or your wife have any special
dietary needs?
Do you or your wife have any difficulty with stairs?
How
would you like to pay?
Are you familiar with the area?
How did
you hear about us?
Are you allergic to marmots? (just kidding about
this one!)
B and B owner Harriet Gould says communication skills are
extremely important. "You've got to be an effective communicator, otherwise
things can get mixed up big time," says Gould. "If you don't have a date correct,
you could double-book yourself and get in big trouble.
"You have
to be clear and specific about the details, and asking them if there are special
needs."
Also important, Gould says, is, "Asking them how they want
to enjoy their stay. Some want to be entertained by the innkeeper and others
want to go to their room and read a book. Sensing those kinds of things is
important."
B and B owners also use their communication skills to
market themselves. Writing an attractive, vivid description of your B and
B on your website can be a great way to attract guests.