FAQ

Q: During this obvious never ending gas crisis, with people now not only traveling less with some not traveling at all, what can I
do to even break even if I can't get guests to check into my motel?

A: I would first recommend you cut back on print advertising and spend your marketing dollars on the internet and in places like
"digital billboards" - it's time to get creative. Look closely at your advertising expenditures and, if you cannot say, without
absolute confidence that you received a favorable response from this or that, don't advertise there. Many people, especially
lodging owners, feel as though they have to advertise everywhere their competitors are advertising. Not true at all. Have you
thought of an HTML Email Campaign or optimizing your website to gain maximum exposure on the internet? If not, you should.
They are a few of the most cost-effective ways to generate new business and keep old business. Again, it's time to get creative.
Offer packages that genuinely would appeal to your market segment during these very difficult time. People are looking for
deals. Remember, 80% of something is better than 100% of nothing.

Q: I own a small restaurant serving american food and I'm in the middle of a medium sized tourist hot spot. What's the best way
for me to compete with some very strong (and respected) competitors?

A: If you have a website, make sure you have a menu in PDF format that people can print out. You want to reach out to groups,
organizations, etc, via email to let them know you exist. Since you have Boy Scout and Girl Scout camps in the area, call their
Council and then email them a coupon with a % off if they bring the boys or girls in. Many of these troops have very tight
budgets and they appreciate the discount. 5% can even make a difference right now. You can also make sure your website has
a printable coupon. I strongly encourage you to send one of your employees out, into the street, and hand out flyers every night
during a peak weekend offering a little something. It works - every time.

Q: How much would it cost for a new website design?

A: Very difficult question to answer without knowing EXACTLY what you would like to do with your site. However, in general,
when you are NOT selling something on the site, such as merchandise, you should budget between $2,500.00 to $4,300.00.
Now, if you want a very "high end" site with lots of "flash" elements, stock photos, SQL database, etc, you're now reaching the
$4,400.00 to $8,500.00 mark. As a rule of thumb, in the hospitality industry such as Bed & Breakfasts, Motels, Restaurants
and Tourist are Shops, the $2,500.00 to $4,100.00 mark is a fairly accurate gauge keeping in mind the higher end more
exclusive B&B's should move to the 4k to 8.5k mark.

More Frequently Asked Questions coming soon. Whether you do business with me or not, your questions and comments are
always appreciated. Click here to submit yours now.