As 2011 kicks off, we find that internet marketing is an even more important part of the overall marketing portfolio of our hotels. One major shift in 2010 was the significant gain in popularity of social media channels, and we find that social media has firmly positioned itself in the tool chest for ecommerce managers and internet marketers. The smart hotelier needs to keep laser sharp focus on the fundamental shift in ways customers are seeking information and channels that drive maximum Return on Investment (ROI). Here are Milestone's top ten eCommerce promotion ideas, channels, and strategies that we recommend to hoteliers in 2011. These tips and insights are based on carefully analyzing trends in the search engines and channels that are driving maximum returns for Milestone's clients and partners. READ MORE

Today, it seems like everywhere you turn there's talk about social media and all the benefits it can have as part of a business marketing strategy. While this is true, simply opening accounts on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, and posting occasional photos and updates won't create a strong following for your business or turn these "friends" and "followers" into profitable clients for your business. This article provides ideas and tactics for hoteliers and hospitality company owners to generate additional ROI from their company's social media presence. READ MORE

The traveling public, by and large, turns to the Internet when it comes to booking hotel reservations. Yet, while trying to compete for guests, independent operators often lose much-needed profit to commission fees charged by online travel agencies or by avoiding the online world altogether. Implementing direct website booking capabilities saves small and independent operators time and money, increases revenue, and provides a more secure, PCI-compliant method for accepting guest's credit card information to hold or prepay for a reservation, allowing these establishments to truly compete in the industry and capture guests without compromising their hard-earned revenue. READ MORE

In an industry where customer service is critical to success, pay for performance offers a tangible way to actively engage employees in achieving business goals. However, the success of pay for performance is rooted in communication and having the right tools in place to support the process. With the right approach, organizations can drive a cultural change where employees are rewarded for high levels of performance. This ultimately helps organizations to attract and retain higher quality talent in the long term. READ MORE

In the last five years the tourism business model has changed dramatically, due to the surge of new market players and tools such as online travel operators, and social media. It is vital for tourism and hospitality managers to understand User Generated Content as a new technological phenomenon with enormous implications for the managing and promotion of the tourism businesses. READ MORE