Presence produces profits

Insights from Craig Poole

The Big idea: Being present isn’t just a feel-good aspiration for the new year. It can be a big driver of opportunity and financial performance in your hospitality business.

Craig Poole, AHLA’s General Manager of the Year, built a reputation for constant presence in his hotels:

  • Gave away his office and worked from the lobby so he could see what was going on

  • Worked there every morning and evening

  • Walked the hotel constantly

  • "Farmed" the lobby, building relationships that turned into repeat guests and bigger business

The result: Outgrew their 208-room hotel with 27,000 sq ft of banquet space. Took over a nearby country club to expand capacity. Won Hilton’s Connie Award for guest satisfaction and financial performance three times.

Bottom line: If you're not present to see what’s happening in real time, you're missing opportunities someone else will catch.

Your turn: This week, block one hour a day to work from your lobby.

Go deeper: Listen to the full episode with Craig Poole

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