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Best Practices and up to the minute news on Customer Experience Management and Service Excellence
Guests want more out of their workday, so they’re bringing the office to destination spots galore in the form of a workation.
Remote work has been a career staple since the pandemic. Now the hospitality industry faces a steady trend of workers who want to escape the office but not necessarily work from home. Acknowledging this trend is key in attracting guests who seek a stellar workation.
A workation combines “work” and “vacation” into one enjoyable experience that allows employees to remain productive while getting away from the usual routine. One of the biggest benefits of the workation is that it gives workers a chance to shake things up. A new work environment – especially one that brings the relaxation and fun of a vacation – can inspire creativity.
It’s a good idea to accommodate this merging of business and play as it recognizes a new form of clients. Thinking like a remote worker can help hotels provide guests with all of the tools they need to work hard and play hard.
Supply necessary equipment inside rooms as well as in common areas. This includes screen-sharing devices and up-to-date technology. The Washington Post gripes about the all-too-common problem of “terrible” WiFi in hotels, which is a major turnoff for workers on the road. Check connectivity speed often, as this is one of the biggest hurdles for virtual meetings and communicating with coworkers.
Think – the pool or bar. It could be as simple as establishing a “dry” zone for laptops, providing extra counter space, and ensuring seating is reserved for those who are working. Unlike coffee shops that protest people who camp out with their laptops, try to encourage this behavior. Go one step further by offering a special poolside treat or mocktail for guests who are typing away.
Featuring ways to connect can make happy hour the perfect break from the grind, bringing together like-minded people with an opportunity to grow their network. Invite local business leaders or even hire a DJ to get the ball rolling. Business events don’t have to be dull. Advertise during check in by asking guests if they plan on getting some work done during their stay. Encourage the workation vibe in every interaction.
Entice guests with an alternative station outside of their room. Establishing booths or desks across different areas creates welcoming places to settle with a computer or on a phone call. For those wanting a change of pace, options near windows with pleasant views are appealing. Have a variety of landing spots that inspire repeat visits – the environment will feel intentional for workers who like to lounge.
Peace-seeking workers want to feel a sense of calm as they work. Any corner can become a cozy place to focus by playing soft music that supports concentration. Research cited by WebMD confirms the positive effects of certain types of music on the brain. A relaxing environment may also include soothing scents and well-designed lighting, creating a spa-like atmosphere for the ultimate work/play experience.
The benefits of travel include a boost to mental health – something that is essential for an overworked economy. The BBC reports that employees promote self care while working by using PTO days to extend work trips, and they also suggest that the pandemic has forever changed the old mentality of work boundaries ever since the ubiquity of remote work.
People are eager to dip in and out of the job grind while living life to the fullest. The new work-life balance is one that requires a dual mentality where productivity is surrounded by pleasure. Recognizing this need for the workation creates more opportunities for growth, and all it takes is designing an environment that supports a new kind of worker.
It makes sense to capitalize on the urge to blend work and leisure because it’s simple enough to make the necessary adjustments. Either way, taking work to new places is an undeniable force that isn’t going anywhere.
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