NEGOTIATING WITH HOTELS

When one wants to arrange a meeting, conference or convention at a specific location, it is important to follow certain basic techniques:
(1) Utilize a professionally prepared RFP and submit to several properties, and let the properties know that they are competing.
(2) Make sure that you approach this negotiation from a "win-win" point of view. Know both your needs, and what the hotel's requirements are. Negotiate your entire package together-- i.e. Room rate, Food&Beverage,Meetings&Meeting Rooms;AV;Comps;Throw-ins, etc.
(3)Know the restrictions of your budget, and let the hotels know that there are financial limits.
(4)If you need something other than what they are showing, ask the property if they can accomodate you.
(5)Never lie to a hotel. Hotels know the history of your group, so if you aren't frank, you'll lose!
(6)Understand timing. When is your meeting? Are you at all flexible?
(7)Ask the hotel what they would recommend that would help both the property and you.

These are just a few of the very basic ABC's of Hotel Negotiations. If you want or need more information, or if you feel a Professional & Experienced Conference & Convention Planner might be helpful (most of the time a professional can save you time, money. and your sanity!), then go to my website at: www.rgbconsults.weebly.com, or e-mail me at rgbrody@aol.com.