A survey released by Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts and the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) reveals…
A survey released by Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts and the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) reveals reasonable rates, locale and brand reputation as key factors meeting planners look for when booking a property. The survey was answered by 367 meeting planners nationwide.
Asked about important standards all properties should offer, the planners consistently cited meetings incentives (such as a free breakfast), multiple meeting discounts and a daily bill review. Planners also repeatedly mentioned that a service-oriented and responsive staff, as well as a flexible meeting space, were on their wish list for an ideal meeting facility.
As one respondent wrote, I want a seasoned operations staff who knows the property and surrounding attractions inside and out. I also want the staff to consistently demonstrate they enjoy their job and want to help the clients.
With regard to technology, planners overwhelming said they wanted high-speed Internet access throughout the hotel, especially in meeting rooms. Concerning billing, the most critical issue for the majority of the respondents was accuracy, especially in relation to correct line items and consistent formatting. Many of the planners suggested a pre-departure bill review meeting, an estimated pre-bill prior to the meeting, and/or a daily bill review. Most planners (40 percent) said they wanted to see their final bill within two weeks.
We are currently monitoring the needs of meeting planners, said Kevin Kowalski, vice president of brand management for Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts. These survey results reveal that services like the Crowne Meetings Director and our daily expenses debrief are directly addressing planners` needs. And, new brand standards like our high-speed Internet access will ensure we`re continuing to meet the needs of these important customers.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
