Business Goals for Cottage Rentals and Hospitality Professionals

Running a cottage or a hotel isn’t just about pretty rooms and tasty breakfasts. It’s about setting clear goals that push your revenue, occupancy, and guest satisfaction forward. Below you’ll find straightforward steps you can start using today, whether you own a single cottage or manage a chain of corporate hotels.

Define Your Profit Targets

First, write down a number you want to earn each month. Look at last year’s income, subtract fixed costs (mortgage, utilities, staff) and decide how much profit you need for a comfortable life or business growth. If you own a cottage, a realistic target might be 25 % more bookings than last summer. If you run a corporate hotel, aim for a 10 % increase in average daily rate (ADR) during off‑peak weeks.

Break that number into smaller actions. For a cottage, it could mean boosting online reviews by 1 point, adding a mid‑week discount, or listing on an extra booking platform. For a hotel, focus on upselling services like meeting rooms, adding a breakfast package, or improving Wi‑Fi speed to attract business travelers.

Turn Goals into Action

Once you have a target, set a timeline. A 3‑month plan works well because you can test what works and adjust quickly. Track two metrics every week: booking volume and average spend per guest. If either falls short, tweak your marketing. Simple moves like posting a short video of your garden on social media or offering a limited‑time spa voucher can lift interest fast.

Don’t ignore costs. Calculate the cost per booking for each channel (Airbnb, Booking.com, your own website). Shift budget to the cheapest source that still brings good guests. For corporate hotels, negotiate with suppliers for better rates on linens or breakfast items – every saved pound adds to profit.

Remember the guest experience. Happy guests leave positive reviews, which drive more bookings. A quick check‑in process, clear house rules, and a welcome basket with local treats can turn a one‑night stay into a repeat visit or a referral.

Finally, review your progress monthly. Compare actual numbers to your targets, note what worked, and plan the next steps. The key is staying flexible – the market changes, but your goal‑driven approach keeps you moving forward.