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  • Home
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    • Best and Worst Practices
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    • Can Artificial Intelligence and Concierge Coexist?
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  • Home
  • Sections
    • Best and Worst Practices
    • Communication and Messaging
    • Competitive Intelligence
    • Concierge
    • Emotions, Perceptions, Feelings
    • Guest Experience News
    • Industry News
    • Insights
    • Leadership
    • People
  • Whitepapers
    • Is Your Team Overwhelmed And Understaffed?
    • AI and Customer Experience Management
    • The Role of AI in Modern Concierge Services
    • Can Artificial Intelligence and Concierge Coexist?
  • Contact Us
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Best Practices and up to the minute news on Customer Experience Management and Service Excellence

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  • The Emotional Cost of Restaurant Cutbacks 

    A popular Italian restaurant just outside New York City has reportedly seen some longtime guests quietly stop returning after reducing complimentary bread service and eliminating free beverage refills. A missing bread basket or discontinued refill policy may seem minor operationally, but for a returning guest it disrupts a familiar ritual. In hospitality, those small rituals often carry more emotional weight than the menu item itself. Like many businesses, restaurants have had to deal with the cost of inflation. Their ingredients for making their dishes have escalated through the last several years, and they have had to make adjustments accordingly. However, the bigger issue is how the owners relay these changes to their patrons. Without any notice, a loyal customer who has been going to the same Italian restaurant for years and has fond memories of eating their delicious bread with his or her family will undoubtedly notice the change. Loyal customers might not say anything directly to the owner or employees of the restaurant, but they might quietly stop walking through the entrance door. This is because restaurants are not just selling food, but they are selling familiarity and experiences. Similar changes are happening across the restaurant industry nationwide as businesses must deal with rising costs. However, small hospitality cutbacks often affect customer loyalty more than restaurants expect. Loss Aversion Behavioral economists refer to this occurrence as loss aversion. According to Scientific American, loss aversion explains that people tend to feel the loss of something more deeply than the pleasure of gaining something of equal value. This concept may explain why patrons accustomed to free soda refills and complimentary baskets of bread may have a strong negative reaction when these are taken away. In addition, Tillster’s 2026 Phygital Index Report shows that 45% of consumers say their favorite restaurant has changed in the past year, up significantly from 2025. The findings suggest that diners are becoming less loyal and more willing to switch restaurants based on value and experience. Taken together, these findings show how reducing complimentary items can influence how customers perceive a restaurant and whether they choose to return. What often gets overlooked is that guests are not simply reacting to price changes, but to uncertainty. When a familiar experience shifts without explanation, customers are left to interpret the reason themselves, which can amplify dissatisfaction. Possible Solutions for the Restaurant Operator Since most guests notice rising prices in their everyday life from grocery shopping to energy bills, they likely understand that prices are rising across almost every sector. What often determines their reaction is not the change itself, but how it is handled. A long-time customer may not like the idea of supporting a business who suddenly shrinks their portions or cuts back on complimentary servings, especially during tough economic times. However, they may stick with a local restaurateur who is struggling and wants to do right by his guests. Therefore, communication is critical. A brief note on the menu, a conversation from the server, or signage explaining why changes were necessary can demonstrate transparency and reinforce that the decision was driven by rising costs rather than a lack of appreciation for loyal customers.This can help preserve trust. Welcoming Feedback This explanation by the staff also gives the guests not only a chance to understand the restaurant’s decision making, but gives the staff the ability to address questions or feedback. Maybe, the patrons will appreciate the explanation, and provide positive feedback. Perhaps, the employees will find out the customers adored the freebies, but would understand if the prices of the main entrees were raised an extra buck or two. Either way, when guests feel heard, even difficult changes are more likely to be accepted. And in hospitality, that sense of being understood is often what defines whether a customer returns. .
  • Managers Beware: How Employees Are Using AI

    AI use by employees leads primarily to short term gains, and managers must step in to use the tool for long term growth.
  • As Tourism Slows, Las Vegas Faces a Guest Experience Challenge

    Travelers often expect to spend money in Las Vegas. The concern is whether they still feel they're receiving enough value in return.
  • How Budget Hotels Can Deliver Big on Guest Experience 

    These five strategies show how budget hotels can create memorable stays by focusing on service, cleanliness, and thoughtful guest care.
  • What This Cozy Town’s Top Cafes Are Getting Right

    Create a unique experience worth stopping in for in order to outdo competitors.
  • 4 Low-Cost Amenities That Turn Readers Into Loyal Guests

    New amenities create loyal customers without incurring a hefty cost.
  • Hotel Wi-Fi Is No Longer a Perk. It’s a Booking Requirement.

    More than 8 in 10 travelers say reliable, secure internet influences where they stay, as hotels invest in network infrastructure to meet growing guest expectations and the rise of bleisure travel.
  • Hilton Reveals Why Guests Are Booking Trips in 2026

    For today’s hotel guests, the “why” dominates the “where” and “when.”
  • Hotel Problems Are Rare. New Research Shows How Much They Hurt Guest Satisfaction.

    Hospitality researchers are shifting attention from compensation toward prevention, coaching, and emotional intelligence.
  • How Music Changes the Way Guests Feel, Wait, and Even Taste

    Down to every musical component, an establishment’s song choice has a reverberating influence on visitors.
  • Nearly 70% of Consumers Will Leave a Brand They Don’t Trust. Here’s How to Keep Them

    Staying ahead on practices that keep consumers’ trust is essential for modern businesses.
  • Management Impacts Team Productivity in Hidden Ways

    Managers boost productivity when armed with the knowledge of the multitude of ways they can influence their team.
  • How Hotels Can Turn the 2026 World Cup Into a Hospitality Opportunity

    From multilingual guest support to fan-centered experiences and transportation assistance, hotels that embrace the tournament atmosphere can create memorable guest experiences that last long after the final match.
  • What Hospitality Can Learn From Video Game Developers

    Applying the psychology behind what draws consumers to video games could help hospitality brands create more engaging guest experiences.
  • Five Ways Hospitality Companies Can Protect Customer Trust When Closing Locations

    Hospitality companies closing locations risk more than lost revenue if customers feel blindsided. Industry experts say communication, transparency, and strong service recovery strategies can help brands preserve guest trust during difficult transitions.
  • New Studies Suggest Guests Still Want Humans Behind Hospitality AI

    Recent hospitality and customer service research suggests consumers accept AI for convenience. But most still prefer human interaction for trust, empathy and problem-solving.
  • Local Feel Versus Established Branding — And How to Get the Best of Both

    Find the best of both worlds between unique atmosphere and corporate identity to appeal to more guests.
  • Business Collaboration Ideas to Build Brand Awareness

    Team up with a variety of businesses to get more eyes on your own.
  • Where Consumer Interest Has Headed In 2026

    At the conclusion of the first quarter, consumer preferences for particular experiences have become clear.
  • The Importance of Delivery For Excellent Guest Service — Same Script, Different Story

    Attitude and tone are everything when making the guest experience right.
  • The Complexity of Tipping: How Mandatory Service Fees Are Changing Dining

    Mandatory service fees reshape tipping, shifting incentives, guest expectations, and the overall dining experience.
  • Nearly Half of Women Hotel Leaders Report Gendered Leadership Expectations as Barrier to Career Growth, Study Finds

    Other barriers women reported included lack of limited flexibility with family life and biases in promotion and hiring.
  • 5 Ways to Prepare Your Hotel or Airbnb for the FIFA World Cup

    You can start preparing your marketing and properties now for last-minute soccer fans.
  • 5 Experiences That Produced Positive Google Reviews

    Customer reviews are essential, but getting them requires exceeding expectations.
  • The Why and How of Inter-Business Relationships

    Partner up with surrounding businesses to encourage mutual growth.
  • The Reality of the Labor Crunch in Assisted Living Facilities

    Staffing shortages in assisted living are already disrupting daily care, as rising demand and turnover strain service.
  • Timeless Customer Service Qualities to Practice Always

    The pillars of creating an excellent guest experience stand strong throughout time.
  • Hotel Guests Aren’t as Excited About AI Concierges as Staff Members, Study Finds

    The USF study found that guests want a more personal touch when trying to book restaurants or local experiences.
  • When Touchpoints Go Wrong – How Small Moments Damage Guest Experience

    Every guest interaction is a touchpoint. When those moments break down, even great food or settings cannot recover the experience.
  • Complimentary Service That is Uncomplimentary to Service

    It is better to give than to receive… right? What happens when hoteliers give a … Continue reading Complimentary Service That is Uncomplimentary to Service →
  • As AI Expands in Retail, Shoppers Still Want Convenience

    Take advantage of new technology to allow customers the shopping experience they want.
  • Almost 3 in 4 Consumers Would Pay for Upgraded Customer Service, Survey Finds

    The survey reveals the industry that people would be most willing to pay for better customer service in was flying.
  • Restaurant Industry Still an ‘Economic Powerhouse,’ Despite Struggles

    Operators project modest real growth and job gains in 2026, even as margins remain tight and consumers remain price sensitive.
  • Analysis: Casino Job Openings Remain Stagnant, but Aren’t Disappearing

    Casino and gambling industry employers won’t be rolling the dice on job growth any time … Continue reading Analysis: Casino Job Openings Remain Stagnant, but Aren’t Disappearing →
  • Number of Consumers Reporting Problems With Products and Services Has More Than Doubled Since the 1970s, Survey Finds

    The survey found that 77 percent of customers reported experiencing a product or service problem in the past year.
  • Benefits of Seasonal Staffing for Guest Experience Managers

    Make the most of customer surges by hiring seasonal employees.
  • What Texas Roadhouse Is Getting Right in a Shaky Casual Dining Market

    Amid closures and cost pressures across casual dining, one national chain continues to grow. Here’s a look at the operational and cultural decisions behind that expansion.
  • Making It Right Can Go Wrong – Don’t Make These Mistakes

    Slip-ups in guest services can happen, and remedying it the right way makes all the difference.
  • A 5-Minute Cap on Hold Times for Customer Service Lines Could be Coming to California

    The proposed bill would also require a human representative to connect with callers within five minutes.
  • 5 Frontline Hospitality Roles Driving Hiring Demand This Year

    Hospitality employers are prioritizing service-critical roles as they plan staffing needs for the year ahead.
  • US Spirits Bankruptcies Push Restaurateurs to Rethink Liquor Sourcing

    New study shows booze bankruptcy can dry up onsite liquor sales.
  • Community Building Practices for Every Organization

    Creating connections has life-changing benefits.
  • How Architecture Impacts Guest Perception

    Architectural design sets the framework for the impression of the space.
  • How the Pursuit for a Sale Can Hurt Customer Relationships

    Acting in the customer's best interest benefits the business's interest – and that's best guest experience.
  • Former Chick-fil-A Service Insider Shares the Secret Sauce to Guest Experience

    Why clever marketing only works when operations back it up.
  • Lighting Trends to Brighten Guests’ Experience

    An understanding of modern lighting practices sets the stage for greater guest satisfaction.
  • Steps of Service for an Exceptional Restaurant Experience

    Acing the service is key to capitalizing on dining.
  • Meaning Behind Design: What Goes Into a Waiting Room

    Across hospitality professions, small variations in decor make a big difference.
  • 5 Ways Hospitality Providers Can Attract More Applicants

    From company perks to recruitment advice, here's where to look for new talent.
  • Hotel Loyalty Programs Succeed Through Simplicity

    Hotel loyalty programs can be very alluring if it has the right elements and consistently delivers value to its members. Unfortunately, many chains design memberships that continually change each year and make it hard for their customers to understand. 
  • Top Leadership Qualities in a Turbulent Economy

    Strong managers can lead their team through whatever comes their way.
  • National Restaurant Association: Lack of Pennies Could Cause ‘Chaos at the Point of Sale’

    The National Restaurant Association is warning that inconsistent rounding practices could create friction at the register – and is calling for federal guidance to avoid confusion for both operators and customers.
  • The High Stakes of Guest Complaints at Sea

    This look inside cruise-line complaint handling explores how recovery efforts can strengthen loyalty, and when they quietly turn into permanent consequences.
  • Black Representation in Hospitality Leadership Below 10%, Analysis Finds

    New analyses from OysterLink and Penn State highlight where progress has stalled – and what intentional pathways could help reshape the industry’s leadership pipeline.
  • One-On-One Meetings Elevate the Whole Team

    It’s time to come face-to-face with the potential of individual meetings.
  • How Hospitality Leaders Should Hire for Guest Experience

    Education, experience, and technology matter. But the hires that protect guest experience are driven by something far harder to teach.
  • The Underbelly of Hotel Rooms: Smart Ways to Prevent Guest Gross Outs

    Are you keeping up maintenance of your hotel’s bathtubs and sinks?
  • How the Swan and Dolphin’s Architecture Shapes the Guest Experience

    Senses and sights can shape an experience guests will never forget.
  • Hotels Rethink Tech Stacks as Service Delays Frustrate Guests

    Research suggests the choice between “all-in-one” systems and modular “best-in-class” tools could make or break the guest experience.
  • Avoiding Beginner Mistakes as a New Manager

    Even when management is the long-term goal, switching into that role isn’t easy.
  • How to Spot the Next Generation of Hospitality Leaders at Your Local University

    College graduates are looking for jobs, and you’re looking for folks willing to do labor. How do you find the students who can step right in and contribute?
  • Facing Failure Head-On: How To Reinvest in Your Products and “Partners”

    Starbucks – like Domino’s before them – reminds us that owning our mistakes is the best way to move forward.
  • Capitalize on the Three C’s of Guest Experience

    Maximizing communication, convenience, and choice is the key to offering an exceptional hotel stay.
  • The Business Benefits of Concierge-Level Service – and Why It’s Not Reserved for Hotels

    Academics and professionals agree: guests and employees alike can feel a deeper loyalty to your mission when service is prioritized.
  • Concierge, Then and Now – Why the Human Edge Still Matters in an AI-Driven World

    Two veteran concierge leaders say the role is evolving from information-gatekeeper to relationship hub and new guest data backs them up.
  • It’s Okay to Hire an Inexperienced Worker

    The hospitality industry is understaffed, this could be a solution.
  • 5 Ways My Car Wash Membership Outshines Competitors

    Outstanding customer service and a seamless guest experience gained my loyalty over other car washes seeking my patronage.
  • How to Make Up for a Bad Guest Experience

    Life isn’t always perfect and that’s okay – just handle mistakes gracefully.
  • Emotional Intelligence at Work: 5 Ways to Foster Employee Growth and Success

    Knowing how to regulate yourself leads to better teamwork and communication.
  • Good Bosses Build Better Hospitality Careers

    Les Clefs d’Or’s A. Burak İpekçi says success in hospitality is finding the right leader. New research backs him up: engaged managers create loyal employees and loyal employees create loyal guests.
  • How to Build The 3 Pillars of Service Excellence Team Building

    Looking to kick service up a notch? Utilize these effective team-building strategies to cultivate service excellence across staff.
  • Study Finds AI Agents Will Drive Loyalty Choices

    As travelers rely on AI to book, hotels must learn to charm both the algorithm and the guest.
  • Talking About Nonverbal Communication in Guest Experience

    Some cues aren’t so clear, and potentially less obvious is the impact that this form of communication has over a guest’s experience.
  • 20 Proven Ways Hotels Can Elevate the Guest Experience and Boost Loyalty

    Creating a memorable guest experience leads to repeat bookings and positive reviews. Here’s how hospitality leaders can turn first-time visitors into lifelong customers.
  • Artificial Intelligence Will Either Bolster or Erode Guest Experience

    A study from Penn State shows hospitality leaders need to balance efficiency with empathy now more than ever.
  • 5 Important Qualities a Leader Should Have

    Poor leadership can cost you. Keep your employees motivated and loyal by displaying proper leadership qualities.
  • Make the Most of Rural Locations With a Bed and Breakfast

    This is a unique and monetizable method if you want to pave your own way into hospitality management.
  • Retain New Hotel Staff in 5 Easy Steps

    Employees are more likely to stick it out and work hard when they feel like they belong. And it all starts with their training.
  • What Memory Do You Want to Leave Guests With?

    The lasting impression can mean more business or you may never see them again.
  • Investing in Local: 5 Compelling Reasons to Embrace Locally Sourced Products

    Support your local economy, ensure quality, and uplift your reputation all while saving some money.
  • 7 Steps to Enhance Fine Dining Takeout

    To-go rules are different when it comes to the upper echelons of the restaurant world.
  • 10 Ways Resorts Can Enhance Guests’ Golden Years

    Captivate an eager, growing market of young-at-heart travelers.
  • From Design Cues to Service Quality: What Makes Hotel Robots Work for Guests

    As hotels experiment with service robots, new research shows design and performance matter as much as technology. Guests respond to trust, aesthetics, and even subtle human features.
  • The British Pub: How Charm and Connection Create the Perfect Dining Atmosphere

    Want to know the feeling of true belonging? Welcome to a place where everybody knows your name.
  • Don’t Forget the Strategy in “Strategic Partnering” Your Hotel Brand

    Many hotel brands are making an attempt to fortify themselves in non-traditional ways.
  • How to Respond if Your Booking System has an Outage

    Hotels find themselves at the mercy of the electrical grid, and if your system that keeps room reservations is out, you’ll have some angry guests on your hands. How should you respond?
  • 5 Pre-Shift Rituals That Ramp Up Service

    Motivate your team with the ultimate pre-shift routine.
  • The Combination of Retail and Residential Space Signals a Growing Trend in Urban Living

    Mixed-use environments are transforming the way people live, work, and play.
  • A Rebrand can Rejuvenate Your Hotel – If Handled Appropriately

    Hoteliers may well see an opportunity to attach their hotel to a more established brand with a long and storied identity. What are the most important tenets of a hotel rebrand?
  • The Role of AI in Modern Concierge Services

    A traveler steps into the lobby of a bustling hotel. Before they can approach the … Continue reading The Role of AI in Modern Concierge Services →
  • Top-Guest-Experience-Solutions-for-the-Understaffed-and-Unorganized

    An Overview The proliferation and utilization of AI—machines aping human intelligence to accomplish tasks— has … Continue reading Top-Guest-Experience-Solutions-for-the-Understaffed-and-Unorganized →
  • What’s the Buzz: Fairmont Washington DC Builds a Sustainable Guest Experience

    From bee hives to solar panels, luxury hotel Fairmont DC is taking green practices to new heights.
  • Creating a Friction-Free Guest Experience Through Smarter Systems and Service

    How hotels and restaurants are mapping the guest journey to fix hidden pain points and create seamless experiences from booking to checkout.
  • Inside the System That Keeps Hotels and Travel Agencies Connected

    ABC Global Services sits in the plumbing of hotel distribution – linking 56,000 properties to agency demand and turning reliable delivery into repeat business.
  • GEM Journal Q&A: Grettel Guerra Produces Event Magic Through the Art of Connection

    In this one-on-one with the "Queen of Fun," Grettel Guerra talks party prep and personal connection.
  • 5 Pre-Purchase Guest Experience Touch Points to Track

    Your brand’s customer journey begins long before the purchase.
  • Top 10 Tips for a Better Brunch Buffet

    MILA’s self-serve brunch brings culinary highs and vacation vibes. Here’s how yours can, too.
  • Patients or Guests? How to Create a Five-Star Experience at Your Practice

    How healthcare can deliver on guest hospitality.
  • The Garden Republic Helps Clients Build a Better Life From the Outside In

    Energy guru Shea Hansen inspires health and wealth through holistic design.
  • Lessons from the Classroom: Crafting a Winning Leadership Curriculum

    A teacher’s guide to building a leadership development program that delivers.
  • A Simple Marketing Tool for Hotels: Newsletters

    Newsletters are all the rage and a great opportunity to connect with your guests directly.
  • Why I Won’t Return to This Pricey Hotel that Failed to Live Up to Its Marketing

    Unrealistic images that don’t live up to a hotel’s reality can lead to dissatisfied guests who feel they were duped into paying a steep price for a budget hotel.
  • The Secret to Hosting Live Music That actually boosts Your Bottom Line

    Creating a live music experience that drives guest engagement and revenue.
  • Social Media Engagement Contributes to Life-Long Customers

    Studies show loyalty breeds trust and commitment to brands.
  • 7 Ideas for Finding the Middle Ground in Management

    The service industry requires managers to juggle praise, support, and control.
  • How to Quell Guests’ Concerns About Traveling with a Baby or Toddler

    Children can quickly complicate a trip, and families many times find themselves anxious trying to plan for a bevy of concerns. Hotel staff can help.
  • 6 Hotel Room Relaxation Devices and features for Travel-Stressed Guests

    Help your guests unwind after a long day of travel, conference events, meetings or sightseeing with these room features that lead to a good night’s sleep and return bookings.
  • Mom’s Kitchen Serves Old-School Comfort to a New Wave of Guests

    Here’s how Andrew Knight is leading “South Florida’s friendliest diner” into the future.
  • Multi-sensory Marketing: The Key to Guest Loyalty

    Marketing your hotel to the five senses can build pleasant associations, trust and loyalty.
  • Volunteer Programs Bring Out the Best in Your Staff

    Here’s why (and how) your employees can transform into on-the-job leaders while helping the community.
  • What to Consider Before Bringing a Hotel to Campus

    Plenty of universities around the country have hotels to help deal with a shortage of accommodations in the immediate area.
  • 6 Ways to Offer Concierge Service That Makes Your Hotel Stand Out From Competitors

    Offering the right kind of concierge services can sway guests to book at your hotel again instead of the hotels across the street.
  • “There’s a Huge Opportunity to be a Trusted Partner to the Travel Agency Community”

    Travel agents seek hotels with ABC Global Services’ seal of approval. The program guarantees trust in guest experience.
  • 3 Ways to Blend Human Intelligence with AI

    Adding the human touch to Artificial intelligence instills customer trust and loyalty.
  • Hotel Best Practices for Accommodating Older Travelers

    Older guests are particularly susceptible to some issues at hotel properties, but there are some ways to guard against some of the big-picture concerns if you’re flexible and able to think ahead.
  • The Impact of Hospital Worker Recognition Programs on Employee Motivation

    Acknowledging outstanding service is crucial for maintaining high standards of patient care and operations.
  • Travel Trends Roundup: How 2025 Pivoted Toward Intentional, Value-Conscious Trips

    Travelers trade excess for meaning — and 2026 will reward planning, loyalty savvy, and off-peak thinking.
  • How Charitable Work Makes You a “Real Business”

    Customers want to support brands that give back to the community. 
  • 6 Ways to Provide a “Home-Away-From-Home” Hotel Guest Experience

    These room features help guests relax and feel more at home during their stay.
  • How to Lose a Regular Customer – and What You Should Do Instead

    Chain restaurants have a blanket approach to staff training that can occasionally lose repeat customers. Here’s what you can do differently.
  • What Employees Do and Don’t Like in a Manager

    It pays to be a considerate leader with happy subordinates.
  • 6 Tips for Responding to Negative Online Reviews

    Nobody is immune to negative online reviews. You should respond to them quickly and thoughtfully.
  • How to Hit a Hole-in-One With Customer Service

    Apply the etiquette of a six-century-old game to the customer service to your business.
  • Unfriendly Hotel Staff Creates a Revenue-Killing Ripple Effect

    Staff unfriendliness tops the list of things that most irritate hotel guests.
  • 7 Hallmarks of Amazing Service

    What the best customer service experiences have in common.
  • Keeping Your Customer Base Happy Even In Crisis-Mode

    Sometimes, the best way to learn is through an example of what not to do.
  • 6 Ways Your Hotel Can Partner with Local Tour Operators to Boost Revenue and Provide a Better Guest Experience

    Take these steps to offer guests local experiences centered around popular attractions, local cuisine and local culture.
  • Customers Love That You Love Your Job

    Passion leads to a great customer experience.
  • How Technology Can Increase Accessibility for Disabled Customers

    Customers living with disabilities contribute billions of dollars to businesses. Here’s how you can use technology to increase accessibility for your customers.
  • How to Get the Best Attitude Out of Your Employees

    With more than three decades in the biz, Hospitality Excellence knows how to create a winning attitude among your team. 
  • Automated Call Centers can Blow a Good Guest Experience

    When guests lose patience, you lose business.
  • When Complimentary Service is Uncomplimentary to Service

    Get the most "bang for your buck" when comping guests. 
  • Wellness or Just Well-Marketed? What Hotels are Getting Wrong

    Not every guest wants a juice bar and a meditation app. Real wellness starts with sleep, service, and soft lighting – not performance-driven amenities.
  • 5 Proven Ways Hotels can Stand Out Among Competitors

    It can be difficult to distinguish yourselves from competitors, but there are some ways to do so and hoteliers must keep them in mind for their business’ sake.
  • How Your Personnel Should Use LinkedIn to Recruit Top Talent

    Linkedin has more than 300 million active users, and no doubt some of them would be willing to hear about vacancies at your hotel. How do you find them?
  • A Former Barista Gives 3 Guest Experience Lessons for Coffee Shop Managers

    Working behind a coffee counter gave me purpose, confidence, and a family – it can do the same for others.
  • How Hospitality Teams Are Creating In-House Career Pipelines Without Corporate Backing

    Independent restaurants and hotels are launching their own mentorship, cross-training, and leadership development programs—without waiting for chains or industry partners.
  • 3 Seductive Secrets of the Speakeasy

    Why are these covert night spots so much fun? Read on to crack the code…
  • Elevate Your Hospitality Team’s Experience with a Little Empathy

    Empathy improves employee satisfaction and enhances guest interactions.
  • How Graveyard Teams are Creating 5-star Experiences While You Sleep

    Some hotels are elevating their overnight staff with training, tools, and autonomy to turn quiet hours into brand-building moments.
  • How a Family-Owned Furniture Chain Won my Loyalty Over a Mammoth Retailer

    Convincing TV commercials sent me their way, but the seamless buying experience is what made me a loyal customer to this family business.
  • How Restaurants are Designing Menus for the Anxious Eater

    Clear labeling, simplified choices, and mindful pacing are making meals more comfortable for guests with dietary or sensory needs.
  • Hire the Right People, Invest in Your Team – and Your Hotel Will Thrive

    Guest experience lessons from a professor teaching the next generation of leaders.
  • The Soundtrack of Service: How Music Impacts Staff Efficiency and Guest Mood

    From lobby playlists to kitchen beats, the psychology of music is being explored as a new lever in guest experience and team performance.
  • Why Hotel Concierge is a Science and Art Form That Should Never Die

    Your guests will keep coming back if you provide the best service possible.
  • Maintaining Your Fitness Center: How to Keep Gyms in Tip-Top Shape

    Don’t ignore your workout space – keep it clean and up to date so guests want to come back.
  • Ella Cafe Shows Mom-and-Pop Coffee Shops How It’s Done

    Slow and steady wins the caffeine race: Find out how Florida favorite Ella Cafe became the most happening coffee spot in town.
  • 7 Steps to Starting Your Spirit Committee

    Learn how forming your own spirit committee can bring excitement, connection, and productivity to your company.
  • 5 Themed Dining Experiences That Inspire Fun and Flavor

    Here are some reminders why it’s important to play with your food
  • From Boutique to Boardroom: How Luxury Retail Brands Are Redefining Hospitality

    Retail powerhouses are stepping into the hotel industry, merging high-end branding with immersive guest experiences. Here’s why this trend is taking off – and what it means for hospitality leaders.
  • 5 Ways to Provide a Better Hotel Guest Experience to People with Disabilities

    Inclusivity for hotel guests with disabilities is essential to providing a great guest experience.
  • The Guest Experience is Key to Growing Country Club Memberships

    Exclusive doesn’t have to mean unapproachable – here’s how top country clubs are elevating hospitality to attract and retain members.
  • 7 Strategies for Elevating the Hotel Lobby Experience

    Hotel guests expect comfort and convenience – even when they’re not in their rooms.
  • Less Is More: How a Limited Menu Can Boost Quality, Revenue and Ambiance

    Endless choices are not always a good thing – especially when it comes to the dining experience.
  • Reel in the 70% of Travelers Relying on Their Phones

    Make it easy for guests to book with you by optimizing your website for mobile use.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making in Hospitality

    How hotels use data analytics for personalized marketing and dynamic pricing.
  • Miami’s MILA Is More Than a Restaurant – It’s a ‘Lifestyle Sanctuary’

    Inspired Japanese cuisine meets Mediterranean flair at Miami Beach’s most sophisticated hot spot.
  • Emotion Management Guide for Managers

    Having the skills for the job means being equipped with the tools to handle emotions, too.
  • Work Hard, Bond Harder: How “Frolleagues” are Redefining Business Trips

    More travelers are blending business, pleasure, and socializing.
  • The Allure of Nostalgia: Why Guests Love Dining at Restaurants That Take Them Back in Time

    Guests are more likely to enjoy the present by reminiscing about the past.
  • From Convenience to Cash Flow: The Art of Vending Machine Placement in Your Hotel

    There’s money to be made with a vending machine. What should you consider when you’re figuring out where to place one?
  • How to Improve Hospitality in Your Hospital

    Research says hospitality makes patients more comfortable than the actual medicine. Here's how to make your hospital more profitable.
  • 7 Strategies for Cross-Training 7 Roles at Your Golf Resort

    Elevate service and efficiency with comprehensive staff coaching.
  • The Argument for 24-Hour Desk Staff in Hotels

    Desk staff are expensive, and to some extent, your guests expect them. Is it worth paying to have someone there at every hour of the day?
  • What Guests Want From a Hotel Restaurant

    Your guests are probably choosing a hotel restaurant because of its convenience. What else should you be considering if you want to gauge its performance?
  • 5 Messages to Create Loyalty Program Engagement

    These rewards program messages create trust and loyalty among guest members.
  • Crafting a Competitive Spa Membership Package

    For guests, self-care is top of mind – spas should be ready to shine.
  • How to Instantly Recognize a Manager Who Will Take Your Team to the Next Level

    A star employee does not make a good manager. What qualities should you be considering if and when you’re looking to promote.
  • What Customers Expect from AI in Customer Service

    Modern customers are looking for real help from artificial intelligence.
  • Take These 5 steps to Map the Hotel Guest Experience Journey

    Mapping the guest journey helps your hotel understand and predict guest expectations.
  • 5 Steps to Saving Your Guests and Your Reputation

    It’s essential to have a plan in place that addresses medical emergencies.
  • Bring Back Team Bonding with the Company Picnic

    Nostalgia brings new energy in this outdoor celebration of teamwork and brand identity.
  • How to Respond to Bad Hair Salon Reviews

    Every hair salon owner or manager should learn the art of responding graciously to a less-than-satisfied customer.
  • 5 Reasons Why The Hospitality Industry Sees a 74% Annual Turnover Rate

    The turnover rate across all U.S. industries is only about 12-15%.
  • OPERA Cloud Takes Hotel Property Management to New Heights

    Oracle Hospitality’s latest platform connects data with operations, elevating an entire industry
  • How to Handle the Death of a Hotel Guest

    As awkward as it can be, you may well run into a day where one of your guests laid their head down on a hotel bed for the last time. Your response should be swift and kind, especially to their next of kin.
  • What is Call Center Concierge Service?

    Call center concierge service leads to greater customer satisfaction, reduces the number of callbacks to resolve issues and lowers operational costs.
  • 5 Hotel Staff Behaviors That Frustrate and Turn Away Guests

    Keep an eye out for these frustrating staff traits that drive guests to your competitors.
  • Immerse Your Guests: Transform Your Lobby With the 5 Senses

    A multisensory lobby experience doesn’t just impress – it creates unforgettable moments that keep guests coming back.
  • 5 Powerful Strategies for Resolving Employee Conflict in Restaurants

    When servers fight, guests feel tension. Reduce staff disputes with an open line of communication.
  • Kiosks are Transforming Quick-Service Restaurants – Here’s How

    Self-ordering kiosks are boosting guest satisfaction and cutting costs. Is your restaurant keeping up?
  • VIP Experience: 5 Ways to Roll Out the Red Carpet for Your Restaurant’s Loyal Guests

    Show your most loyal guests how much you value their business with these five tips.
  • Marketing Tips to Boost Customers and Profits

    Attracting an audience brings in new business and raises your bottom line.
  • How the Magic Castle Hotel Turned a Popsicle Into a Guest Favorite

    A simple, cost-effective idea turned an ordinary hotel into a beloved destination, offering insights for hospitality leaders on elevating guest satisfaction.
  • The Rise of ‘Quiet Luxury’ in Hospitality

    Luxury is getting a makeover. Here’s why understated elegance is captivating today’s most discerning guests.
  • A Tale of Two Coffee Shops: How Feng Shui Fixes Can Attract More Business

    The Garden Republic’s Shea Hansen provides holistic solutions for cafés’ biggest design challenges
  • Boosting Business with Trivia Nights: A Guide for Bars and Pubs

    Hosting the perfect trivia night comes down to organization, preparation, and showmanship.
  • Protests and Politics Weigh on Global Travelers Eyeing U.S. Trips

    Survey shows widening gap between international and American perceptions of safety.
  • Concierge Service isn’t only for Luxury Hotels

    Local concierge association president explains how the desk has evolved and where it still fits inside hotels today.
  • How Walt Disney World Sets the Standard for Guest Experience Excellence

    Walt Disney World is more than just an entertainment destination – it’s a masterclass in exceptional guest experience.
  • How to Impress Your Hotel Guests

    Word-of-mouth and online reviews are great ways to retain guests – here’s how to gain that positive traction.
  • The Psychology of Wait Times: Why Perceived Time Matters More than Actual Time

    When does a five-minute wait feel like ten? When guests feel ignored.
  • 10 Hotel Freebies That Make Guests Feel Like Rock Stars

    Want to get guests bragging about your brand? Offer complimentary items and services that deliver instant satisfaction.
  • 7 Ways Servicescape Drives Service Quality

    It’s a fact: Atmosphere doesn’t just affect guest behavior – it also influences staff performance.
  • Enhancing Revenue Through Ancillary Services

    Here are the top ancillary services your hotel can provide to boost your bottom line.
  • How Hotels Can Be Accessible for People with Disabilities and Why That Matters

    People with disabilities spend billions in the tourism industry.

Trending Topics

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  • 5 Ways to Prepare Your Hotel or Airbnb for the FIFA World Cup
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