The Independent Lodging Journey

Becoming an independent lodging owner is more than just providing a place to stay—it's about creating memorable experiences, solving problems, and managing the myriad of tasks that keep a lodging property running smoothly. If you’re considering a career in independent lodging, it’s crucial to understand what a typical day might look like and the skills you'll need to succeed. The following insights offer just an overview of things to start thinking about.

Transferable Skills: You Have More Than You Think

Many prospective owners come from diverse backgrounds, often outside of the hospitality industry. These varied experiences provide a wealth of transferable skills that are crucial to owning a property. For instance, if you have experience in customer service, marketing, or even hands-on trades like plumbing or carpentry, these skills will be invaluable. As one seasoned innkeeper put it, "You are the master of your own ship." This means you'll need to juggle multiple responsibilities—from managing guest relations to handling maintenance issues—all in a single day.

While you may not have expertise in every area, understanding and appreciating these skills is key. For example, culinary skills are essential if you plan to serve breakfast or run a full-service restaurant. Likewise, a knack for design and decorating can help make your inn more attractive and comfortable for guests. If certain tasks fall outside your expertise, hiring the right contractors or staff will be crucial.

Who Are Successful Independent Lodging Property Owners?

Successful owners bring a blend of passion, adaptability, and continuous learning to their roles. They enjoy serving others, solving problems, and making their guests' stays memorable.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to owning a lodging property. Your success will depend on your ability to adapt to changing circumstances, whether that means rebranding your property or shifting your target market. Continuous education and peer networking are critical tools for staying ahead in the industry.

Different Models, Different Days

The structure of your day as an owner will vary greatly depending on the size and type of your property. For instance, managing a 30-room hotel requires a different approach than running a four-room bed and breakfast. Larger properties may require a more substantial staff and more complex operational strategies. This includes dealing with seasonal fluctuations in occupancy, managing a diverse range of guest needs, and handling the increased complexity that comes with offering additional services like restaurants or spa facilities.

For smaller properties, the owner might be more directly involved in day-to-day operations, from checking in guests to preparing breakfast. This hands-on approach can be rewarding but also requires a strong sense of time management and the ability to wear many hats.

Marketing and Financial Management: A Balancing Act

Marketing is a crucial aspect of running a successful lodging property. A well-designed website, high-quality photography, and effective use of social media can make or break your business. Investing in professional marketing services, especially for larger properties, can yield significant returns. For smaller properties, it may be feasible to handle some marketing tasks yourself, but the importance of a professional touch cannot be overstated.

Financial management is another area where innkeepers must excel. Whether you handle bookkeeping yourself or hire a professional, keeping a close eye on your finances is essential. This includes managing daily expenses, planning for seasonal fluctuations, and ensuring that your property remains profitable.

Embrace the Challenge

Owning an independent lodging property is a challenging yet rewarding profession that requires a unique blend of skills, passion, and adaptability. Whether you're managing a large hotel or a cozy bed and breakfast, each day will bring new opportunities and challenges. By leveraging your transferable skills, investing in continuous education, and building a strong team, you can create a successful and fulfilling career in lodging.

For those considering this path, remember that the learning doesn’t stop here. Attend industry conferences, seek out ongoing education, and network with peers to keep growing and evolving as an innkeeper. Your journey is just beginning, and with the right mindset and tools, it can be an incredibly rewarding one.

Get Started in Your Journey

Become a member of the Association of Lodging Professionals as an Aspiring Lodging Professional. Membership will give you access to resources, webinars, reduced Conference registration, and so much more.

Register for the 2025 ALP Conference & Marketplace, March 24-27, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky, and attend sessions designed solely for Aspiring Owners.

Sign up for a mentor through ALP’s Mentorship Program. Get one-on-one advice and guidance from those that have been in your shoes. Participation in this program requires ALP membership.

Apply for a Scholarship through the ALP Fund. Scholarships are available to help support the costs of ALP membership and conference registration.

Contact a vendor or supplier that can help you get started. Whether you are looking for a business consultant, a financial consultant, insurance, or linens, ALP’s community of Allied Partners can help.