I find plenty of cynicism in the hotel business about the value of blogs in their online marketing. That is why it is encouraging to read recent comments from Scott Allison, a Marriott VP, on the subject of Bill Marriott’s blog.
As reported on the Idea Hatching, Allison considers his boss’s blog to be very successful.
Even our competitors have acknowledged the blog as a competitive win for Marriott. Not only has it provided a great channel for customers, it also allows him to very personally communicate things that are important to him. The blog has also encouraged Marriott to expand the initiative to other Marriott executives including our corporate executive chef.
He continues:
Because Bill Marriott believes that he is first a foremost a hotelier, one of the side benefits has been the buzz generated by people who blog with him, and then link to a page to make a reservation - revenue from people who came through what wasn’t originally intended as a booking channel.
Also:
Fortunately many people read his blog and interact with us through this exciting channel, and it has definitely contributed to shifting traffic to the brand site with 80% of e-commerce being transacted on Marriott.com.
You may not have a Bill Marriott at the top of your organisation but the very idea of additional revenue generated via his blog ought to spark some interest.
1 response so far ↓
1 Sandra Lepinski // Apr 15, 2008 at 2:13 pm
I worked for the Marriott chains during the 90’s in securities. It was a pleasure working at the Bethesda and Philedelpha office. I was give incentive (which I still have today). During my travels I still enjoy staying at Marriott hotels. During my stay I notice that Mr Marriott can do more for his guest. I am talking about rooms designed for those guests that has beside comfort optimal health and wellness as a top priority. Rooms that has products and technologies proven to dramatically enhance and promote total well-being of your guests.
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