Easy ways for hotels, restaurants, and other businesses in hospitality to get more people through the door using simple online marketing tricks that actually work—no fancy stuff, just real ways to bring in customers and make more money.
The hospitality industry is all about people. Whether you run a hotel, a restaurant, or any business that serves guests, you need a steady flow of customers. In today’s world, most people go online before they book a stay or choose where to eat. If your business isn’t showing up in the right places, you’re missing out.
But digital marketing can feel overwhelming—so many platforms, so many things to do, and so much confusing advice. The good news? You don’t need to do everything. You just need to do the right things. Here’s what actually works.
1. Be Seen Where People Are Already Looking
People don’t go searching for hotel websites one by one. They check Google, TripAdvisor, Yelp, and social media. If your business isn’t showing up there with good photos, clear information, and great reviews, you’re already losing customers.
- Google Business Profile: Set up your profile, add good pictures, and keep your info updated. This is where many customers will find you first.
- Review Sites: Encourage happy customers to leave good reviews. More stars mean more trust.
- Social Media: People check Instagram and TikTok to see real experiences. If you don’t post, your competitors will.
2. Make Your Website Simple and Fast
If someone lands on your website and it’s slow or confusing, they’ll leave. A good website should:
- Load quickly (nobody waits more than a few seconds).
- Show clear pricing, menus, or booking options.
- Be easy to use on a phone (most visitors are mobile users).
- Answer common questions (hours, location, contact info).
If your site is slow, outdated, or hard to use, it’s hurting your business.
3. Get More People to Book or Visit
Visitors won’t automatically book a room or make a reservation just because they found your website. Give them a reason to act fast:
- Show limited-time deals or seasonal discounts.
- Make booking easy (one-click reservations, simple forms).
- Offer direct booking perks (free drink, free upgrade, better rates).
If they leave without booking, they might not come back.
4. Use Ads the Right Way
Ads can bring in customers fast—but only if done right. Otherwise, they waste money.
- Google Ads: Show up when people search for hotels or restaurants near them.
- Facebook & Instagram Ads: Target people who are already interested in your area or type of business.
- Retargeting Ads: Bring back people who visited your site but didn’t book.
You don’t need a huge budget—just well-placed ads with a clear message.
5. Email & Texts Keep Customers Coming Back
Not everyone books on their first visit to your site. That’s why email and SMS marketing are so powerful.
- Collect emails from guests and website visitors.
- Send simple, useful messages (special deals, local tips, event invites).
- Don’t overdo it—once a week or less is enough.
Returning customers spend more and need less convincing.
6. Social Media That Actually Works
Social media doesn’t need to be complicated. You don’t need fancy videos or daily posts—just real, useful content.
- Show off your best rooms, dishes, or experiences.
- Share guest photos and reviews (with their permission).
- Highlight upcoming events or special menus.
People trust what they see from real guests more than what brands say.
7. Fix What’s Stopping Customers
Before spending more on marketing, fix what’s turning people away.
- Bad Reviews? Respond politely, fix issues, and improve.
- Website Not Working? Check speed, mobile usability, and clarity.
- Prices Too High? Show value by highlighting unique perks.
Marketing only works if your business is ready for customers.
Simple Ways to Get More Customers for Your Hotel or Restaurant
Marketing for hospitality businesses doesn’t have to be complicated. Show up where people are looking, keep things simple, and make it easy for customers to book or visit. Stick to what works, and you’ll see results.