Strategies to Reduce OTA Commissions: Directing Guests to WhatsApp

Hello everyone,

Today, let’s talk about that famous "silent partner" in the hotel industry—the OTA commissions—and how we can smartly break free from this cycle. Don't get me wrong, I’m not an enemy of Booking or Airbnb; after all, they are the ones filling our occupancy rates. But doesn't it sting a bit to leave 15-20%, sometimes even more, of every cent we earn on the table? It sure does.

Here’s the thing: Once a guest comes to you, they are no longer that OTA's guest—they are your guest. But what do we do? The guest checks in, has their vacation, and leaves. The following year, they come back to us through the same platform, paying that high commission all over again. This is actually a massive gap in our marketing strategy.

The Path to "Freeing" Communication: WhatsApp

This is exactly where we build a bridge with Hotel Desk. we pull the guest out of that platform's clunky message box and into the most intimate place in their pocket: WhatsApp.

How? The scenario is simple, but the impact is massive: When the guest enters the room, they see a sleek QR Sticker. It says, "Need help? Scan now and chat with our assistant on WhatsApp." The moment they scan that code, they’ve entered your digital ecosystem.

Why is this so critical?

1. Direct Connection: Now you have the guest's phone number and direct permission to communicate. You are no longer held hostage by Airbnb’s restricted "proxy" emails.
2. Service Quality: When a guest wants to book a table at your restaurant or request a towel, they won't bother opening an OTA app to send a message. They’ll write on WhatsApp, and our smart assistant will reply instantly. The guest feels they are receiving "VIP" treatment.
3. Loyalty: When the stay ends, our assistant sends a "thank you" message and adds: "Book directly with us for your next stay and get a 10% discount." This is the first real step toward escaping commissions.

Keep the Guest, Leave the Commission on the Table

Let’s be realistic; once a guest establishes that friendly and fast bond with you via WhatsApp, they won't look for a middleman next time. People love what is secure and fast. The 24/7 seamless service provided by Hotel Desk actually becomes your strongest loyalty program.

If you don't want to keep sighing "We paid too much in commissions again" with every booking, you need to pull the guest into your own channel the moment they walk into the room. That QR code isn't just a piece of technology; it’s your hotel’s declaration of independence.

If you want to reduce OTA commissions and build a direct, lasting bond with your guests, just drop me a message. Let’s increase your profitability (and those lovely RevPAR figures) together. 📈✨