Accor Reservations Practice Map

Select Practice Type
What would you like to practice today? Select an option to update the form criteria.
This review will not count towards the learner's self-evaluation goals.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.

Essential Qualifying Questions

mm/dd/yyyy
This field is required.
Caller Type
This field is required.
Dates Of Stay
Clarify if the guest is flexible with dates. If the guest provides the information or if you know they cannot be flexible, check the u0022I asked/understoodu0022 box.
Ask the number of adults prior to asking about the number of beds required.
This field is required.
If children are visiting, confirm their ages.
Dealbreaker Question
Ask a deal-breaker question before asking the other Measure questions to avoid repetition or providing unnecessary information. “Are there any specific room requirements, like a King bed, or general amenities, like breakfast, that you want during your stay in London?”

Room Requirements

Ask about the room needs if not provided at the start of the call.u003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eDO NOT ask, u0022What type of room are you looking for?u0022u003c/strongu003e

Room Type Question
This field is required.
Budget Mentioned
Number of Beds Required
Tip: Don’t ask number of beds if only one adult!

What is Known

What is already known to the caller? What information should you provide or skip?

Ask if the caller stayed at the hotel before.
COACHING ALERT: If you don't know if they stayed or not, how can you personalize the experience?

Add this question to your next call to collect valuable data!

Have you been to the area before?
Profile Access
Finding a guest's profile and past data is a sales and service best practice! Did you find their profile in AC/DC?
How did you hear about us?

Swaying Value

What could create “swaying value” for the caller? Listen and note clues during the conversation.

Website Review
Try to determine whether they are on our website or a third-party website. Ask, u0022Have you had an opportunity to review any options on our website?u0022
COACHING ALERT: Don't sell the unknown! Ask what information they have reviewed and any pricing they can see.

Don't react at the end of the call when the caller tells you that they are looking at pricing or options elsewhere. Get on the same page from the start!

This field is required.
What is important to the guest?
Here are some ways to bring up the u0022what is bringing you into the hotel?u0022 question.

So I can find the best available room and rate, please let me know…u003cbru003eWe have many options and rates available. Let me ask you…u003cbru003eAnything exciting or special bringing you into the hotel/city/area?u003cbru003eSince you mentioned [insert comment], I would like to ask if…

What information did the guest share with you about why they were coming and what was important?
This field is required.

Encourage An Upsell

Attempted To Upsell?

Seek A Yes

Remember to ask for the sale. It's harder to customize an option if you don't know why they are saying no to your offer.

Ask For The Sale
Do you know why the caller said no to your offer?
Please list the reason the caller mentioned for not making a reservation?
This field is required.
Clarify Resistance Question
Ask a clarifying resistance question.
Type of Resistance / Primary Objection
What type of resistance did the caller have?
This field is required.

Overcoming Resistance

Now that you understand why the caller is resistant, work to overcome it by providing additional information to help them make the best decision.

Just Checking / Shopping
How did you know the caller was just checking, planning or shopping?
Educate About Rates
Did you educate the caller about the rates?
COACHING ALERT: It's important to let people know what is happening in your area or the hotel.

Not every traveller is an expert, but you are. They might not be considering details about pricing, events or dates that you will know. Be sure to tell them!

Overcoming Price Resistance
How did you overcome price resistance?
mm/dd/yyyy
Price Comparison
How did you overcome price comparison resistance?
Compare To Competition
Attempt to overcome resistance when the callers is comparing us to the competition.
This field is required.
Example

“Our hotel is directly opposite the Eiffel Tower, and even our dining room and gym have views + “The [insert hotel] wouldn’t have those views since they are a little further back, and at night, this is a view that you must see at least once in your life. + Since you mentioned this is your first time in Paris, I recommend a direct view. It’s magical, and your family will remember it.”

Support The Sale Fundamentals
How did you attempt to overcome resistance with all callers?
Support

u003cstrongu003eSense of Urgency Through Availability:u003c/strongu003e Explain how your rates, room types, hotel availability, and promotions can quickly change without notice! Explain how now is their time to lock in the best rate.u003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eCancellation Policy:u003c/strongu003e Explain your flexible cancellation policy and how it would allow them to lock in the best option, but cancel if they need to or find something better. Reiterate that funds aren’t taken up front.u003cbru003eu003cstrongu003e24-Hour Courtesy Hold:u003c/strongu003e Via the different link payment option (the guest can fill in the cc information after receiving confirmation to guarantee the booking; if not, the booking is cancelled. The link is valid for up to 24 hours, depending on the property and the proximity to the booking date.

I / WHY / I

u003cstrongu003eCrafting recommendations with confidence.u003c/strongu003e Want your callers to take you more seriously? Sounds like an expert they can trust using the I/WHY/I technique.

Example: We sincerely appreciate your monthly stays with us, Mr. Dar. As we approach our peak season, I recommend securing your future stays at flexible rates. nnu003cstrongu003eWhat are you going to recommend for this caller?u003c/strongu003e
Example: Our hotel often sells out in July and August due to high summer vacation demand, and I would hate for you to be turned away. I would be happy to reserve some dates for you at flexible rates, ensuring your stays are guaranteed while still allowing you the option to cancel if needed. nnu003cstrongu003eWhat facts will you explain during your recommendation?u003c/strongu003e
Example: I receive calls from many of our VIP guests, like yourself, encountering difficulties during these busy months, and I would love to help make this experience easier for you!nnu003cstrongu003eHow will you encourage loyalty and personalize from your experience to assist the caller?u003c/strongu003e

Handling Price Resistance

u003cstrongu003ePrice resistance will happen!u003c/strongu003e You are an expert, and you can use the steps below to help the caller reconsider the options.

u003cstrongu003eRelate and Acknowledgeu003c/strongu003e
u003cstrongu003eSelect the steps you completed on this call:u003c/strongu003enExample: u0022Thank you for letting me know. I understand that price is an important factor, and I would also want to find the best price for my vacation. I can help! Let’s see if we can find an option that will fit your requirements.”n
u003cstrongu003eMeasureu003c/strongu003e Price Range
u003cstrongu003eSelect the steps you completed on this call:u003c/strongu003enAsk the caller what price range they have in mind and clarify where the expectation is coming from.
Rate Expectation Source
Compare To Competition Tips
Attempt to overcome resistance when the caller is comparing us to the competition. Include the following points.
First Time Stay or Brand Tip

”February in Dubai is one of the peak months for the hotel. Both business and vacation travellers love this time of year when the weather is cooler. That can mean that we have limited promotional rates. You will find that our rates are competitive for the area at that time. For a 5-star hotel, we would be looking at this range for February.”

u003cstrongu003ePrevious Rateu003c/strongu003e Comparison Steps
“I know it’s disappointing when the rate is not what you expected. Sometimes, our rates are lower during promotional periods, like your last stay. Our slower periods can really provide great value. During this stay, due to the peak period, it looks like we have our standard rates to choose from.  I can say that they are still competitive for a 5-star hotel, and you will still have access to…”
u003cstrongu003eThink  Possibility: Solve The Price Resistance Problemu003c/strongu003e
Present an alternative pricing option that the caller may consider that is close to their budget.
Solutions FIRST Approach
Start the conversation by presenting the solution you have in mind FIRST! Example: “I have a queen deluxe that would be at the lower the price to 339 however, it still has the same great views! Would that be an option you would like to consider?”u003cbru003e
u003cstrongu003eAssign Value to Included Options and Perksu003c/strongu003e
Ensure that a caller understands the savings, comfort, and convenience associated with our offerings.
Examples of Assigning Value

u003cstrongu003eAssign Savings: u003c/strongu003e“The option I mentioned also includes a complimentary full breakfast buffet for two and access to the spa facilities. With thermal bath access included, this is something not to be missed. This is a 200-euro value per day. Also, being within a 30-minute walk of all the major sites can save up to 50 euros per day on car services and avoid traffic.”u003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eAssign A Feeling: u003c/strongu003eWhen you stay at our hotel, which is directly connected to the airport, you can save up to two hours of travel time. There’s no need to worry about early shuttle rides or crowded transfers. Instead, you can enjoy a calm morning and simply walk to your gate. For just 50 euros more, you get peace of mind and a smooth start to your trip, making your journey easier  and more enjoyable.

u003cstrongu003eStay Limitationsu003c/strongu003e

u003cstrongu003eHow to build confidence in something you cannot guaranteeu003c/strongu003e? Ensuring you create confidence and trust in your conversations.

u003cstrongu003eRelate and acknowledgeu003c/strongu003e that their concern is important.
u003cstrongu003eMeasureu003c/strongu003e their needs.
Ask questions to understand the situation.
Service: u003cstrongu003eMake A Personal Connection and Empathizeu003c/strongu003e.
It's important for the caller to understand that you are on their side and value their request. Without this, they are less likely to consider your proposed solution.
Example: Emotional Impact

“I completely understand. I am sorry that the request cannot be guaranteed. Having those two rooms connecting on your wedding day to help with preparation is essential. You would want to be as relaxed as possible on a significant day.”

u003cstrongu003eEducate u003c/strongu003eon what is possible
u003cstrongu003eReveal Solutions u003c/strongu003eand turn negatives into positives!
Sell Alternative Hotels
When all else fails, suggest an alternative hotel that is nearby.
Example: Stay Limitations

“I do have some options we can consider. We are adding a request that we have connecting rooms, if not, a room next to or across from one another. As close together as possible.  Alternatively, I could also look at suites in the hotel that would give you additional space, similar to having two rooms.”u003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cmark class=u0022srfm-highlightu0022u003eu003cmark style=u0022background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)u0022 class=u0022has-inline-color has-ast-global-color-0-coloru0022u003e(I / WHY / I)u003c/marku003eu003c/marku003e “Personally, I would recommend the suite since it would give you more space, and it is a more elegant room, which will make a great backdrop for photos and hosting people. I love the suites and love having a separate living area when travelling for an event.”“Personally, I would recommend the suite since it would give you more space, and it is a more elegant room, which will make a great backdrop for photos and hosting people. I love the suites and love having a separate living area when travelling for an event.”u003cbru003eu003cbru003e“All hotels aren’t able to guarantee connecting rooms since all rooms are sold separately. If those rooms are occupied the day before, they wouldn’t be available to assign for your stay.”u003cbru003eu003cbru003e“However, your request is a priority, and we will do everything possible to ensure it is fulfilled.”

u003cstrongu003eRecapturing OTA Bookingsu003c/strongu003e

u003cstrongu003eEncourage callers to book direct!u003c/strongu003e It takes a little convincing, but we should always attempt to encourage our callers to book direct.

u003cstrongu003e React surprisedu003c/strongu003e!
Sounds surprised when a caller challenges your rates. Example: “Oh! I apologize. That shouldn’t be the case. We always offer the best rate! Let’s see what we can do.”n
u003cstrongu003eConfirm u003c/strongu003ethe 3u003csupu003erdu003c/supu003e party website they are viewing.
Confirm the information and look up the exact details. u0022May I ask what website you are seeing the rate?u0022
u003cstrongu003eConfirm u003c/strongu003ethe option.
u003cstrongu003eConfirmu003c/strongu003e the currency.
Currencies can drastically change the rate of appearance. Confirm which currency the guest is using.
u003cstrongu003eConfirm u003c/strongu003eMembership
OTA companies have their own membership that they use to market to their guests. It also means they will give special, membership-only rates.
This field is required.
Rate Comparison
Explain u003cstrongu003eALL program benefits u003c/strongu003eand options
When our rates are the same or cheaper, explain ALL program benefits and options.n
u003cstrongu003eFocus on what they don’t get but might enjoy!u003c/strongu003e

“The cashback option from your Expedia membership is great, but with your business travel, have you considered an ALL membership? By booking directly and saving up points, your work travel can earn you enough points for complimentary stays at some of the world's best hotels. Plus, as your status increases, you'll get upgrades, late check-out, and more. It's everything you get with Expedia, and even more perks from the property.”u003cbru003eu003cbru003eu0022For example, we can always request an early check-in and late check-out for you, but as an ALL member, you would have priority!u0022u003cbru003e

u003cstrongu003eu0022Positivelyu0022 sell against OTAu003c/strongu003e and give the caller a reason to reconsider booking online.
Specific Hotels
Was the rate for MGallery Grand Roi Rene Aix-en-Provence, SO Maldives, SO Berlin Das Stue, Sofitel London Heathrow, Hyde Hotel Ibiza, Mondrian Ibiza, Pullman Paris Centre Bercy, SO Vienna?
Introduce our u003cstrongu003ebest price guaranteeu003c/strongu003e.
If our rates are the same or higher, discuss our best price guarantee.u003cbru003e
Introduce our u003cstrongu003ebestu003c/strongu003e price guarantee and update rates.
If our rates are the same or higher, discuss our best price guarantee.u003cbru003e
Example

Mr. Douba, the rate you found on booking.com is 560, which is cheaper than the option we have here. We offer a best price guarantee that beats the current rate by 10% for the Fairmont in Monaco. Additionally, you will receive all the direct booking perks and points. I can make the booking for you now, and then I can help you through the online form to submission. Remember, you still have a flexible cancellation policy, so you can cancel if your plans change.

This field is required.
We agree to work on the following:
This field is required.
This field is required.