Hotel energy loads are going strong up to 24 hours per day, making the need to "green" energy loads a priority for hotel owners. A comprehensive, long-term energy strategy can cut energy consumption by up to 10 percent. Hotel executives can guide energy and money savings through a variety of ways, including investments in energy-saving devices, behavior modification, and participation in government grants and programs. In addition to all the federal incentive programs, most U.S. states have rebates and initiatives available. This article will touch upon why it is financially advantageous for hotel owners to work with their energy managers to reduce their energy consumption. READ MORE

Brands that engage in a true Voice of the Customer approach within their loyalty, engagement and customer experience initiatives will continue to increase their market share, profitability and brand equity. Voice of the Customer is more than a marketing program or branding initiative. It is a mindset that is ingrained in the culture of today's most successful brands. READ MORE

Owners looking to sell their business frequently make common mistakes by not: adequately preparing the business for sale; implementing a proper business valuation; finding the right business broker for their hotel; keeping an open mind about potential buyers; and following through after an offer has been made. As sellers often have to cope with competitive pressure in the marketplace, they have little margin for error. While good hotels can still command appropriate market value today, it's important to look at the details when selling your business. Avoiding these common mistakes will help increase your chances of getting the highest price for your hotel - in the shortest amount of time. READ MORE

This past tumultuous two year period has seen large and small banks come and go, regulations rise, consumer demand fall, hotels close, and the general public's acceptance of uncertainty about the future. While we are all reluctantly drinking the "new normal" kool-aid manufactured by Wall Street and politicians, commercial real estate developers need to consider the implications on financing. Financing from private sources is growing as new regulations affect institutional lenders so the landscape is changing. This article is a roadmap for successfully navigating the 2011 financing maze. READ MORE

Most folks believe that onboarding begins on the new employee's first day of employment and ends after the orientation to the department or job function. Actually, onboarding begins with their first contact with your organization and ends with their first year of employment. How you handle every step in this process―especially in the beginning―will make the difference between their becoming bonded to the organization or not, and that will determine you ability to engage and retain the new recruit. Find out how your handling of this critical time can make or break this important relationship and what you can start doing now to strengthen your onboarding process. READ MORE