Why Do Hotels Still Provide Wake-Up Calls in the Age of Smartphones?

With today's advanced technology, one might wonder why hotels continue to provide wake-up calls. Despite the prevalence of smartphones and digital alarms, these calls remain a popular and even required service in many establishments. Let's explore the reasons behind this continued tradition and whether it will eventually fade away.

Guest Preference

One significant reason hotels persist with wake-up calls is simply because some guests still prefer them. This preference is particularly strong among older travelers who might not rely heavily on technology. In many cases, these guests are accustomed to and perhaps more comfortable with the traditional wake-up call method.

Reliability and Comfort

Another important factor is reliability. A wake-up call from the front desk ensures that a guest is awakened at the desired time, especially if they are not confident in using their own devices or if those devices are not set up properly. This can be crucial in situations where a lost sleep can affect a guest's day, such as attending important meetings or catching flights on time.

Enhancing the Guest Experience

Providing wake-up calls can significantly enhance the overall guest experience. This level of personalized service demonstrates attention to detail and shows that the hotel is genuinely concerned about the comfort of its guests, down to the smallest details. It reinforces the idea that the hotel is going above and beyond to ensure a positive stay.

Backup Option

Additionally, wake-up calls serve as a valuable backup in situations where guests might forget to set their alarms or when their devices have technical issues. This ensures that no matter what, guests will be awakened on time. It provides a reliable fallback for those who might otherwise be at risk of oversleeping.

Business Travelers

In the world of business travel, many guests appreciate the assurance of a wake-up call. Missing a crucial meeting or flight can be costly, both financially and professionally. The certainty provided by a wake-up call is invaluable in these scenarios.

Does Technology Alter the Future?

While technology continues to evolve, the desire for personalized service and the need for reliability in certain situations will keep the wake-up call service relevant for the foreseeable future. However, the usage of these calls may decline as more guests become comfortable and rely on their own devices.

Corporate Requirements and Legacy Practices

There are cases where hotels are required by external organizations to continue providing wake-up calls. For example, as a Forbes 4-star-rated hotel, our hotel must offer a non-automated wake-up call as part of our Stars requirements. This is a commitment to providing a high level of personal service. Additionally, we offer a 15-minute follow-up, akin to a snooze button, which further caters to guest comfort.

Even though I feel that the practice is somewhat outdated, it serves as a selling point, particularly for older guests who value traditional methods and personalized service. Many older travelers have a history of relying on these services and appreciate the attention to detail. Offering these amenities can help attract them and keep them coming back, contributing to a continued level of guest satisfaction and spending.

Ultimately, while technology has advanced significantly, the tradition of wake-up calls will likely persist in various forms, adapting to guest preferences and technological advancements to maintain its relevance.