Building relationships in the local community.
Introduction
“You know, in hospitality,” I mused, leaning back in my chair, “it’s not just about the four walls.
A truly great hotel, lodge, or even a cosy little café… it’s a heartbeat within its community. A vibrant pulse, if you will.” I remember this one boutique hotel, nestled amongst rolling hills. Now, that place, oh, it had character.
Local art splashed across the walls like a vibrant story. Breakfast? Fresh from the farm down the road, the smell of summer still clinging to the tomatoes. And the staff? They whispered secrets, those hidden gems only the locals knew. It felt… real.
Like you were slipping into a dream woven from the very fabric of the place. That, my friends, is the magic of hospitality. At furbsh, we believe it’s not just about a nice touch, this community thing. It’s the soul of the experience.
Why Community Matters
Let’s be honest, guests don’t just want a bed to crash in.
They crave connection. A taste of the place, you know? And nothing captures that essence quite like a deep-rooted bond with the locals.
Ways to Engage with Your Local Community
So, how do you weave your business into the very tapestry of the place?
→ Meet the Makers: Who are the folks who give this town its flavor? The farmers, the artists, the folks running that quirky little bookstore… get to know them. These are the threads that will weave your story.
→ Roll Up Your Sleeves: Jump in! Sponsor the town’s annual pie-baking contest. Host a farmer’s market in your courtyard. Maybe even team up with the local school to plant a community garden. The more you give back, the more you’ll receive.
→ A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats: Collaborate! That charming coffee shop around the corner? Offer your guests a discount there. In return, they can recommend your place to their customers. A local tour guide? Include your hotel in their itinerary. It’s a win-win, a beautiful dance of mutual support.
Bringing Local Products into Your Business
Community engagement isn’t just about shaking hands. It’s about what you offer, the very essence of your hospitality.
→ Taste of the Town: Source your ingredients locally. Fresh, seasonal, and bursting with the flavour of the land.
→ Handmade with Heart: Fill your rooms with the artistry of local artisans. Pottery, textiles, even those little soaps in the bathroom… each piece tells a story.
→ Ethical Choices: Travelers are savvy these days. They care. Fair-trade coffee, sustainably sourced furnishings… it’s not just a trend, it’s a reflection of your values.
Making Your Space a Reflection of the Community
Your business shouldn’t feel like an island, a stranger in a strange land. It should be a part of the story.
→ A Touch of Local Color: A vibrant mural by a local artist, handmade furniture that whispers of the past… let the art of the place shine through.
→ The Insider’s Guide: Share the hidden gems, the off-the-beaten-path adventures. Your guests will appreciate the local knowledge.
→ A Symphony of Senses: Let the music play. A local author’s book on the bedside table.Even the scent of your lobby candles… these subtle touches create an immersive experience.
Creating Deeper Guest Connections
It’s not just about visiting a place, it’s about feeling it.
→ Storytelling 101: Train your staff to become local ambassadors. A quick “Did you know?” about that old oak tree in the park can spark a conversation, a connection.
→ Unforgettable Experiences: Cooking classes with a local chef, a guided hike through the whispering pines, a pottery workshop…create memories that linger long after the trip is over.
→ Listen Closely: Pay attention to what your guests love. What experiences resonated with them? Their feedback is a precious gift, a roadmap for improvement.
The Bigger Picture
A hospitality business that truly embraces its community… it’s more than just a place to stay. It’s a destination in itself. Guests crave authenticity, that genuine connection. They’ll come back for it, time and time again. At furbsh, we’re all about helping businesses build those meaningful connections.
For more inspiration, check out our blog post: “Capturing the Dream”.
Let’s make hospitality more than just service. Let’s make it about belonging.
Book a demo here.
Original article can be found here — https://www.furbsh.com/blogs/building-relationships-in-the-local-community
