Boost visitor numbers and increase spend per visit by focusing on what truly matters—people. The right team can transform an experience from ordinary to unforgettable.
Firstly, a well-trained host has the magic touch when it comes to upselling and cross-selling attractions, dramatically increasing spend per visit. Picture a visitor coming in for a single attraction but leaving after experiencing a multitude of adventures—all thanks to a savvy host who knows exactly how to care for the guest and suggest the perfect complementary activities.
Secondly, these hosts are the heart and soul of your venue's customer experience, creating unforgettable moments that fuel organic marketing. Delighted visitors are more likely to leave glowing reviews, share their incredible experiences on social media, and rave about your venue to friends and family.
We will do a deeper dive into how to build a winning team, but to get the most out of your staff, here are our top tips:
Create a staff avatar that embodies your company culture.
Identify qualities that align with your brand—like extroverted, energetic individuals who are passionate about creating memorable experiences for guests in an entertainment venue.
Implement a competitive reward structure with commissions and bonuses for upsells and positive reviews to drive exceptional performance.
Hiring doesn’t have to be expensive because everyone wants to be a part of an exciting mission and fun culture!
Seek candidates through referrals from existing high-performing staff, headhunt from local leisure and hospitality venues, and connect with local colleges.
Have a “we are always hiring superstars” mentality.
In casual roles, it can be easy to not invest the time to evaluate candidates properly. However, investing time in the hiring process can pay off. Review hard skills, work samples, cognitive ability, motivation, and genuine interest. Be clear about expectations in the interview stage, both functional and behavioral, and ensure a cultural fit.
Staff are more likely to engage as amazing employees when they feel there is a career path for them.
Don’t forget to complete any necessary background checks and have employment agreements in place.
High turnover is a clear sign of poor leadership—it’s costly and diverts focus from driving business. Underinvesting in training is a mistake that's easily avoidable.
Proper onboarding and ongoing development are crucial for performance and staff retention. Go the extra mile to make every team member feel valued and integral to the venue’s mission.
Ensure new hires experience all your attractions firsthand. This deepens their understanding and enables them to better promote your offerings.
Introduce company culture early, and empower staff with leadership opportunities and recognition. Proactively address issues and barriers to nurture and retain talent.
By investing in developing amazing hosts, you can significantly enhance visitor experience and drive organic growth.
Don’t miss out on the power of a great team!