The value of people, the fifth “P” of the marketing mix, cannot be understated

Home » The value of people, the fifth “P” of the marketing mix, cannot be understated
Woman clearing a table on at an outdoor cafe

Unwittingly, I have become a student of the 5th P of the marketing mix – people. A brand’s touch point is its people. It is the staff of a hotel that caters to guests and influences the overall customer experience.

When engaged in international consulting marketing, it is not unusual to live in a hotel for weeks. Life becomes routine in a hurry, especially when English is a second or third language and you are not accustomed to cultural nuances. Hotel staff become familial.

Dining room staff is trained in the fundamentals of service. Tables are set properly, and cutlery is clean. Wait staff approach at the right time to take a beverage order, present a menu and take the order.

Grounds staff are uniformed or identified in a way that you know they are employees. Courtesy is the rule and that is present in abundance, along with the obligatory smile, and a greeting. Bar staff is well-trained in the handling of alcohol and routines are well-managed to encourage the second round.

Security is present, yet not obvious, and willing to help with accessing services offsite. Basic training is clear all the way to room service and the people who sweep the halls. It is the trivial things, however, that make the experience memorable and exceptional.

North Americans tend to speak English rapidly, and there are numerous accents. Even when hotel staff is well-schooled in the English language, there is often incorrect messaging when English-speaking guests speak too quickly and use slang and jargon common to the society from which they came. Polite staff nod and seem to understand what was said, but they really don’t understand the nuances of the language. English-speaking guests must slow their speech, speak clearly enunciating words, and use words that although simple are not patronizing. Hotel staff who know how to help guests communicate in a friendly animated way rate high on my list.

The bartender and wait staff make a difference in customer experience management. Bartenders know management well and how the hotel works. Wait staff knows who the long-term guests are and what to expect when there are hotel events. Wait staff can tell you who people are, if you are seeking someone, and can make introductions. If their service is remarkable, like serving the right drinks quickly, bringing snacks without being prompted, and keeping the table clean, it is very hard to not recognize them and the establishment for excellent service.

The ladies (seems to be always ladies) that clean your room and bathroom daily, place fresh linens, wash floors and restock rooms with soaps, lotions and packets of coffee, tea and accessories receive little attention. Incredible! It is the cleaning staff that delivers the most basic needs of a guest. Every day rooms are restocked, cleaned and fresh bedding prepared for a safe rest. Rarely are they recognized. Most work for minimum wage; any gratuity is appreciated and makes a difference with the level of care given to your room.

The 7 Ps of the marketing mix are vital in positioning a brand in the marketplace. In all sectors of the service industry, people determine whether a brand attracts loyal customers and repeat sales, as well as recommendations.

Grant Lee, CPM

Grant Lee, CPM

Marketing Strategies and Tactics

Share: