“Oh, Millennials and Gen Z?” You know, the ones who spend more time snapping their avocado toast than actually eating it?

Or those who believe that a vacation isn’t complete without at least five wanderlust postings and a drone photo of their morning yoga at the beach.

Yeah, good luck attracting them with your ‘basic’ hotel amenities. If you still think free Wi-Fi is a special feature and ‘continental breakfast’ sounds fancy, you might be in for a shock.

In today’s world, hotel loyalty is all about how ‘Instagrammable’ your place is.

In this blog, I’ll show you how to attract and keep these guests returning.

Gen Z refers to people born between 1996 and 2010, making them the second-youngest generation, between Millennials and Generation Alpha.

Several key factors have helped shape their identity:

• The emergence of the digital age.
• Concerns over climate change.
• A transforming financial environment, and, of course,
• The effects of COVID-19.

Gen Z, sometimes known as ‘digital natives’, is the first generation to have grown up completely immersed in the internet and digital technologies.

Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, are the generation that grew up during the rise of the internet, smartphones, and social media.

Often referred to as the “bridge generation,” they had a unique experience before and after the digital revolution.

Major events include:

• The Great Recession
• The gig economy’s expansion, and
• The Housing Crisis

These events had a significant impact on their economic perspectives.

Despite limited resources, Millennials prioritize experiences over material possessions, place a high value on education, and strive for a healthy work-life balance.

Although Millennials and Gen Z have their differences, this article highlights some of the most striking and general behavioral observations that apply to both groups.

Before diving into how to attract and retain these guests, here are a few key things to keep in mind:

Both generations are highly tech-dependent, with Gen Z being true digital natives. Your hotel needs to offer seamless digital experiences.

Both Millennials and Generation Z favor experiences over material stuff.

They are looking for unique and memorable accommodations that go above and beyond the norm.

Hotels that offer experiential packages, such as local cultural events, adventure activities, or health programs, will grab their interest and improve their entire experience.

Both groups, but especially Generation Z, are influenced by social media posts and rely on reviews when booking accommodations.

Both Millennials and Generation Z are strongly concerned about ecological and social problems.

They favor hotels that follow environmentally friendly measures and demonstrate corporate social responsibility.

Both Millennials and Gen Z are extremely tech-savvy, so providing a smooth digital experience is essential. Make sure to include:

• Mobile-friendly booking systems/ Mobile app
• Contactless check-ins and payments
• Fast, reliable Wi-Fi

Social media plays a significant part in their vacation decisions. To appeal to them:

• Create visually appealing environments that are “Instagrammable”
• Encourage guests to share their experiences through hashtag campaigns.
• Provide distinctive, lovely experiences, such as rooftop yoga or local cuisine samples.

Personalized experiences help these travelers feel valued.

Leverage data to provide tailored recommendations based on their preferences such as room choices and dining options and to send personalized offers, including loyalty program benefits and discounts.

Both generations value Internet reviews and influencer suggestions over traditional advertising.

Partnering with relevant influencers and encouraging pleased customers to submit good reviews and share their experiences on sites like TripAdvisor, and Google may help create trust.

While Millennials and Generation Z love experiences, they also seek good discounts.

Attract them with packaged deals that mix local experiences with lodging and loyalty programs that provide real incentives.

Wellness is a concern for both generations, particularly Generation Z, who are extremely health-conscious.

Design a hotel experience with wellness in mind, give access to workout facilities, and yoga sessions, as well as a menu with healthy eating alternatives such as vegan, and locally sourced foods.

So, there you have it attracting and keeping Millennials and Gen Z travelers is super easy… if you don’t mind completely changing how you do everything!

Just make sure your hotel is tech-savvy, totally personalized, and packed with Instagram-worthy moments all while offering amazing experiences for a fair price.

Oh, and don’t forget to show how socially responsible you are.

with plenty of options for wellness and adventure. But hey, once they post that perfect selfie in your lobby, at least you’ll be on trending.

Contact us If you’re looking for personalized strategies or want to help turn your property into the go to spot for the next generation of travelers.

QloApps can help you make your hotel the place where experiences, convenience, and Instagram-worthy moments come together.