The advent of eRFPs has transformed the group business model for hotels, making it easier for meeting planners to raise their hands and to consider multiple properties in their hunt for the "one." However, because eRFPs are so widely distributed, they have also introduced complexities and inefficiencies into the selection and selling process. Properties have a tough time knowing which leads are a good fit for their hotel (and sometimes who has serious interest), while buyers are barraged by a high volume of emails and phone calls from well-meaning sales teams at numerous properties -- regardless of whether they are a good match. But that doesn't have to be the case. Creative sales strategies can enable you to analyze incoming eRFPs, to prioritize the ones that are most likely to result in the best conversations, to maximize your impact with every customer interaction, and to ultimately win more deals. READ MORE

Anticipating and meeting event planner needs are key to closing the sale of group and meeting events. But, what criteria do event planners use when they select a venue and destination for their events? Your sales pitch often requires assumptions how an event planner will choose a destination. Assume no more. HVS surveys of 4,700 event planners from across the world provides insight into event planner needs. HVS identified the most important criteria event planners use when choosing their destination and highlighted the different criteria different types of event planners use when locating an event. READ MORE

Authenticity and experience count when it comes to meetings and events in the 21st century. Attendees aren't just looking for an anonymous location in which to do business. They want to discover every nook and cranny of local culture in a destination, both as a part of a meeting and away from it. Creating a true sense of place can transform an event into something inspiring and unforgettable by incorporating the flavor of a city into every aspect of an event, from design to food & beverage, to unique experiences and beyond. READ MORE

Guest Wi-Fi is a powerful tool to connect with guests before, during and after meetings as a wraparound service that streamlines all aspects of their stay. It quickly becomes a compelling draw not only for guests but for the companies they work for as well, supercharging your meetings business. From customized web portals to analytics that help onsite personnel manage meetings in real-time, to a robust branding initiative for your property and for your customers, guest Wi-Fi helps your meetings business stand out from the crowd. READ MORE

Consumer expectations for accommodation are rising and new trends are surfacing to drive hoteliers to adjust their design strategies to attract more travelers. Specifically, millennials are traveling more than any other generation and have a strong desire for memorable experiences through unique design elements and customized, adaptable community spaces that elicit a positive and dramatic first impression. These concepts are already transforming multifamily and residential communities nationwide, and as the hospitality industry continues to experience rapid growth, similar strategies must be applied to stand apart from the competition. READ MORE