We must credit hotel workers, the unsung heroes of the hospitality industry, for ensuring that guests have a comfortable stay. But like other workers, even the most patient staff have their limits. Yes, from front desk workers to housekeepers, these employees encounter frustrating guests on a daily basis. Here are the 8 things that annoy them and how to make their work a little easier for them.
8. Booking Through Third Parties Then Expecting the Hotel to Fix Problems
While you may book through a third-party website for cheaper deals, potential problems can arise. This will create a headache for those at the front desk when they are unable to modify your stay. Why? When you book through these third-party websites, the hotel will have a limited ability to make changes and fix issues. Getting angry at the front desk staff is unfair and frustrating, as it is rarely their fault.
7. Leaving Without Checking Out
When you decide to check out early, do notify the staff so they can alert the housekeepers. This will give them enough time to tidy up the room for the next guests. You see, an average hotel worker cleans between 12 and 20 rooms per eight-hour shift, which is about 20-30 minutes of cleaning time per room. Once you leave without checking out, your room sits vacant for hours, which wastes the housekeepers’ time.
6. Failing to Tip or Leaving Insulting Tips
Failing to tip your bellman or housekeeping staff is a way to piss off people who have given you service. The American Lodging and Hotel Association recommends tipping between $1 and $5 per day. But according to international etiquette expert Diane Gottsman, tip graciously as much as you can. Break up the tip into daily increments, as housekeepers often change shifts frequently. Yes, this also goes to poor tippers, who piss off staff.
5. Hoarding Luggage Carts in Their Rooms
Watch out, you may be one of the guests who keep the cart to yourself during your stay. While it will be easier for you to load your bags, it’s not enough for the hotel guests, as there are only dozens available for hundreds of rooms. Be considerate of other hotel guests and staff as they perform their duties.
4. Acting Entitled Because of Loyalty Status
This should be common sense already, but hotel staff hate it when rewards members act as if they own the place and expect free stuff. However, if you’re in your best behavior, then chances are the staff will go the extra mile to give you extra perks. You can even try asking them nicely if there is something for you, but don’t be demanding or rude.
3. Leaving Extreme Messes Without Warning
Leaving a big mess without informing the staff is a nightmare for them. If something accidentally spills, please notify the staff immediately so they can clean it up easily. Don’t let them walk into the room with bizarre situations, as it is unsafe and disrespectful to them. A simple heads up will do so they can bring the necessary cleaning supplies and allocate proper time.
2. Expecting Early Check-In Without Prior Arrangement
If you come early, way beyond check-in time, then chances are the occupants are still there. Some guests may become rude if their early check-in requests aren’t accommodated, which can piss off the staff. Housekeepers also need the extra time to clean your rooms and make them welcoming for you.
1. Staying on Their Phone During Check-In
Imagine the front desk communicating with a hotel guest, but they’re on their phone. Rude, right? The front desk staff will provide you with important information for your stay, including Wi-Fi passwords, breakfast hours, and parking instructions. However, if you ignore them, you’ll miss crucial details and have to call back to ask questions that were already answered. It’s disrespectful to their time and creates more work for everyone.
