Less is More: Rethinking Success in Hosted Accommodation
In the world of hosted accommodation, we often celebrate success by pointing to how fully booked we are. "I'm at 95% occupancy for the season!" or "We've had every room filled for months!" are the kinds of statements that make us feel like we’ve achieved something big. But is being fully booked the ultimate measure of success? What if the key to a more sustainable, enjoyable, and profitable business was about having fewer guests who are a better fit?
It might be time to challenge the common notion that success equals constant bookings. Instead, we could focus on attracting fewer, higher-paying guests who align more closely with our business values, expectations, and vibe.
Why Fewer, Higher-Paying Guests Could Be Better
1. More Personalised Experiences
With fewer guests, we can provide more personalised service. It’s much easier to go the extra mile when you're hosting fewer people. Custom touches and tailored experiences create lasting memories for guests, and this level of attention often leads to positive reviews, repeat bookings, and word-of-mouth recommendations.
2. Better Fit = Better Stays
Not every guest is the right guest. Sometimes, chasing occupancy means dealing with people who might not appreciate or respect what your property offers. When you focus on attracting guests who are aligned with your business values, they’re more likely to respect your space, engage positively, and contribute to the atmosphere you want to create.
3. Higher Revenue with Less Stress
Fewer guests doesn’t necessarily mean less income. By positioning your accommodation to attract higher-paying visitors who value your unique offerings, you may find that you’re earning more while dealing with fewer stresses. After all, managing a smaller number of higher-paying guests can be far easier than running a fully booked property at discounted rates.
4. Sustainability for You and Your Business
Full occupancy can lead to burnout, especially in smaller hosted accommodations where the owner is often deeply involved in daily operations. Scaling back occupancy to host fewer guests can give you more time to recharge, focus on the guest experience, and keep your passion for hosting alive.
A Better Question to Ask Fellow Hosts
Instead of asking fellow hosts, “How full are you?” or “What’s your occupancy rate?” consider asking:
- “How aligned were your guests this season with your ideal business model?”
- “Were your guests the right fit for the experience you’re offering this summer?”
- “How did you get on with your reviews this season?”
These questions can shift the conversation away from sheer numbers and toward the quality of both the guest experience and the host’s lifestyle.
Moving Toward a Mindset of "Less is More"
It’s tempting to equate a full calendar with success, but by rethinking this mindset, we open up new possibilities for hosting. With the right approach, fewer guests could mean a more enjoyable and profitable business - one where you, as a host, feel fulfilled and energised, rather than overwhelmed by constant occupancy.
Final Thoughts
In the end, success is not about quantity, but about creating the kind of guest experiences that bring long-term rewards. It’s about quality, sustainability, and being selective with who steps through your door.