Hotel reviews have become one of the most important factors when travellers choose their accommodation. Before guests book their hotel, they want to read reviews from other guests, and will often check these across multiple platforms, such as Google Reviews and Tripadvisor.
If your reviews are positive and recent, your hotel is far more likely to win that booking. If they’re sparse or outdated, guests will potentially keep looking for other hotels. The challenge isn’t convincing guests to leave a review.
Most are happy to give feedback, but making it as easy as possible is key to increasing reviews for your hotel.
Below are our top tips for helping hotels increase guest reviews.
Make it simple for guests to leave reviews
If a guest has to search for where to leave a review or it takes a long time to do so, it just won’t happen. A simple follow-up email shortly after checkout works well, especially if it includes a direct link.
Some hotels also use QR codes in rooms or at reception, helping remove all friction. It doesn’t need to be clever. It just needs to be quick. If someone can do it in under a minute, you’re far more likely to get that review.
Use subtle reminders during the stay
Most guests don’t think about leaving a review while they’re staying with you. A small reminder can help keep it front of mind. You can introduce this in simple ways, such as:
- A simple note in guest rooms or as part of a welcome pack
- A prompt on the WiFi login page
- A quick mention from staff during checkout
It shouldn’t feel forced or over the top. Instead, keep it very natural so guests do not feel they are under pressure to leave a review.
Ask at the right moment
When you ask guests to leave a review, it matters more than people think. If you leave it too long after their stay, the details become a little blurry. But ask too soon, and it can feel a bit forced.
The sweet spot is usually just after checkout, when their experience of your venue is still fresh in their minds. If a guest compliments the room, enjoys a meal or has a great interaction with staff, that can be a natural moment to mention reviews.
Deliver an experience worth reviewing
Guests tend to leave reviews when something stands out. That could be exceptional service, a really comfortable room or even just small details done well. Consistency matters too. One negative experience can taint the overall review and perception of your hotel.
Focus on the basics first, then look for ways to add those small, memorable touches that people actually mention when they write. Things such as snack baskets or chilled water in the guest rooms can make their stay feel a little extra special.
Also, keeping your venue decor refreshed and modern can help improve the guest experience. So, if your rooms look a little tired or your reception area feels outdated, consider a refurbishment to help your hotel stand out and gain a competitive edge.
Respond to every review
If a guest has taken the time to leave feedback, ensure you respond to it in a timely manner. Whether the review is positive or negative, each review should be responded to. When guests see that reviews are acknowledged, it shows that feedback matters.
People want to see that issues are taken seriously and handled professionally. It can also help encourage more people to leave reviews, because they know someone’s listening.
Improve guest experiences
A well-planned hotel refurbishment can do far more than refresh your space – it can significantly elevate guest satisfaction, lead to better reviews and encourage repeat bookings. From modernising rooms and improving comfort to updating communal areas and amenities, the right upgrades can transform how guests feel about their stay.
If you’re considering refurbishing your hotel, get in touch with us to discuss your requirements and find out how we can help to bring your ideas to life.
