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Depending on where you start your independent hotel business, chances are the market is already fairly saturated. This shouldn’t deter you though. Boutique hotels can thrive if they find a niche and create a standout brand. In this Southeast International Hotel Brokers blog, we’ll talk more about the importance of branding for independent hotels.

Why Your Hotel Needs to Stand Out

Independent hotels have had quite the resurgence in the past decade. With all the independent hotels opening, it’s easy to see why potential guests are expecting a lot from the hotel they choose. If they’re choosing to stay at a boutique property, they likely want something a little different from the safer expectations of a franchised property.

That’s why it’s vital for independent hoteliers to create a niche for themselves and set their hotel apart from the rest of the market. Getting lost in the shuffle happens to plenty of independent hotels, and often the problem is a lack of personality and unique branding.

How to Set it Apart

Here are a few ways to stand out from the crowd:

Create a Brand Identity

As an independent hotel brand, you have to figure out who you are and what the story you want to tell is. Creating a strong brand identity will help you stand out in guests’ minds and make your hotel more memorable.

There are many facets of a brand identity. Minutiae like the colors of your hotel and hotel website all have to be considered, but you also have to consider broader aspects like the type of hotel you want to have.

Do you want to be luxury or economical? Modern or classic? Youthful or family-oriented? The options are vast, but you don’t want to get your messages mixed. Make sure to create a consistent image that is immediately recognizable.  

Market Your Brand

It’s not enough to just create your brand identity. You also need to make various marketing efforts to get your name out there. There are plenty of powerful digital marketing tools that can help.

Using Google Ads, doing SEO, and creating a clean, user-friendly website are all essential. You can either take the time to learn to do this yourself, hire an in-house marketer, or even hire a digital marketing agency.

Don’t forget to utilize social media and word-of-mouth marketing. Social media is especially vital for independent hotel success. If you’re having trouble building your presence, consider reaching out to influencers and letting them stay at your hotel for free, in exchange for them posting or reviewing your hotel through their various social media channels.

Don’t Give Up

The independent hotel market can sometimes be saturated, especially in bigger cities. Make sure you’re a success by continually making efforts to lead the pack. In the independent hotel industry, persistence is key.

Choose Southeast International Hotel Brokers

Are you in the market to buy or sell a hotel? The process of buying and selling can be overwhelming, but when you have a hospitality broker by your side it can be much easier. If you’re in need of a hospitality broker, choose Southeast International Hotel Brokers. We have the knowledge and resources you need. Contact us today for more information and to speak with a member of our team.