So you think you might like to run a B&B or small accommodation business? But what's it really like? Remember Fawlty Towers??? Join multi award winning business operators Gaynor & David Clarke of Cape Howe Cottages for a couple of days behind the scenes experience, one on one brutally honest Q & A sessions, hands on learning and all whilst enjoying a break away from the norm. Clear the head and start investing in your future.

Gaynor & David have more than 11 years experience creating a small accommodation business from scratch to 5 self contained cottages. In 2009 & 2008, they won the best Hosted Accommodation award in WA at the state Tourism Awards plus the Small Business Development Corporations Best Regional Micro Business Award and were finalists in the Telstra Business Awards in 2008. In 2010, they won the Albany Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business of the Year and also won Best Micro Business, Best Tourism Business and Best Industry Development Awards.

Gaynor & David understand that their years of experience is valuable and are offering to share their knowledge, skills and stories with those who are considering venturing into the holiday accommodation business or those who are already committed but need a bit of guidance. Only one private mentoring course is held at any one time giving you full and exclusive access to Gaynor & David during your stay. You will complete a self assessment pre-course check prior to arrival which will enable Gaynor & David to tailor their course to suit your experience, skills and personality.

Whilst certainly not professing to be experts in all areas, they believe their wealth of hands on prior experience along with formal qualifications in sales, marketing and training will make a valuable contribution mentoring and inspiring successful future tourism accommodation operators to avoid the pitfalls.

Course covers

• business operations - where to start and stop. How does it all work?
• infrastructure development - buying established or starting out fresh?
• cost control - every penny counts.
• skills assessment - have you got what it takes?
• the importance of star ratings, accreditations and awards - speaking from experience.
• sales and marketing essentials - what's hot?
• record keeping - the demon of all small businesses.
• professional development - looking after yourselves and your staff.
• customer service and great guest care - the guest may not always be right.
• quality control - setting standards and exceeding expectations,
• innovation - staying five steps ahead,
• business planning - plan not to fail,
• business networks - it's all about "who you know!",
• risk management - what could possibly go wrong?

Courses can be specifically tailored to suit individual needs and experiences.
Please note that we do not cover the in depth financial aspects - we recommend you discuss these areas with your accountant.

Package includes

• 2 night's accommodation (choice of cottage)
• Breakfast & Dinner daily (selected from our Room Service Menu which you might have to help prepare)
• Self Assessment pre-course check
• Course Notes/Checklists
• 5 hours of dedicated one-on-one sessions with Gaynor & David
• Hands on experience - yes, you may have to make beds!!!
• You will get sufficient free time to digest and enjoy your surroundings.

Cost: From $932 per couple based on lowest cost accommodation & average price of meals (no drinks provided). You can upgrade to higher levels of accommodation for an additional $100 or $200 per package.
Note: You may be eligible to receive the Small Business Smart Business Training Vouchers which contribute up to $200 towards the cost of this course.

Registration: 50% deposit on booking with balance on arrival. Cancellation conditions apply.Completion & return of Self Assessment Pre-Course Check is required no less than two weeks prior to arrival. Advise any dietary requirements.

Black out Times: Sorry, but due to our own business needs we are unable to provide the mentoring course during the following times: 15th December - 15th January Easter & Long Weekends

What to Bring:

• Comfortable clothing & footwear
• Drinks
• Food for lunches (although you will have the opportunity to dine out or shop in Denmark or Albany during your stay.)
• Big Notepad
• Your ideas and if you are already in business your brochure/marketing material etc
• Sense of humour and lots of energy.

For more information please contact us.