Reservation System
A Reservation System is a tool that helps bed and breakfasts, hotels, and similar businesses manage their bookings and guest information. Think of it like a digital calendar and filing cabinet combined - it keeps track of which rooms are booked, when guests are arriving and departing, and stores important guest details. These systems help avoid double-bookings, manage payments, and make the check-in process smoother. Common examples include systems like Booking Engine, Property Management System (PMS), or Channel Manager. Some businesses might call it a Booking System or Guest Management System.
Examples in Resumes
Managed daily operations using Reservation System to handle 50+ guest bookings per week
Trained staff on new Booking System implementation, improving efficiency by 40%
Coordinated guest services through Property Management System and Reservation System
Typical job title: "Reservation Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Reservation Managers
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle multiple booking channels to prevent overbooking?
Expected Answer: A senior manager should discuss coordinating between different booking platforms, implementing real-time updates, and having contingency plans for when overbooking occurs. They should mention experience with channel management and rate optimization.
Q: How do you train staff on reservation system best practices?
Expected Answer: Should describe creating training materials, hands-on training sessions, implementing standard operating procedures, and methods for monitoring and improving staff performance with the system.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you handle guest complaints related to reservations?
Expected Answer: Should explain their problem-solving process, including checking system records, offering solutions, communicating with guests professionally, and documenting incidents for future reference.
Q: What reports do you regularly generate from the reservation system and why?
Expected Answer: Should discuss occupancy reports, revenue forecasts, guest history reports, and how these are used to make business decisions and improve service.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic information do you need to take a reservation?
Expected Answer: Should list essential details like guest name, contact information, dates of stay, room preferences, payment details, and any special requests.
Q: How do you check room availability and rates?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic system navigation, checking calendar views, understanding different room types and rate categories, and confirming availability before booking.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic reservation entry and modification
- Guest check-in and check-out procedures
- Payment processing
- Basic customer service skills
Mid (2-4 years)
- Managing multiple booking channels
- Handling complex reservations and groups
- Report generation and analysis
- Staff training and supervision
Senior (5+ years)
- Revenue management
- System optimization and troubleshooting
- Strategic planning and forecasting
- Team management and development
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with common reservation or booking systems
- Poor customer service skills or communication abilities
- Inability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
- No experience with basic computer systems
- Lack of attention to detail in booking management
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