There are many facets to your business and it is important to hire an interim innkeeper who best fits your property.  There are several questions you should ask yourself prior to hiring an interim innkeeper.

Ø  Do you want someone to take care of your inn for a short or long period of time, someone to run your inn for you, or someone to work short term, often?  Some interim innkeepers take only short term jobs, some prefer longer assignments and some like to have several jobs within a short distance of their homes that they can do on a regular basis. Finding someone you like and will use again and again saves time and money in training and makes it easier to get away more often.

Ø  Do you want a couple to take care of your inn or will a single innkeeper work? The size of your inn, the length of the assignment, whether or not you have other staff, and the responsibilities of the interim innkeeper will determine whether you will need a couple or a single to take care of your inn.

Ø  Are you willing to pay for travel expenses? Most interim innkeepers charge something for travel getting to the inn and some charge for trips to the store, bank and post office while they are taking care of your inn. These charges vary from interim innkeeper to interim innkeeper. Consider whether you are willing to pay someone to travel a distance or whether you would like someone closer to home.

Ø  Will the interim innkeeper be using a guest room while at your inn or will they be staying in your owners’ quarters? In most instances, providing a place for the interim innkeeper to stay is part of the deal. In situations where there are no innkeeper quarters available, other lodging options should be considered.

Ø  What are the interim innkeeper’s responsibilities? This is one of the most important items to be discussed. Prior to asking for a quote, you should have clear, concise and complete information regarding your expectations and these expectations should be conveyed to the interim innkeeper. Duties range from simply taking care of your guests to taking care of pets and doing yard work. The more detailed you are with what you want done in your absence, the less chance there is of misunderstandings and disappointments.

Ø  What are you willing to pay? Rates vary depending on many variables. Length of stay, responsibilities, and average daily rates and occupancy are things that go into the consideration of the rate. Having a clear idea of what you will expect of the interim innkeeper will be helpful in determining what you are willing to pay. Speak with other owners in your area to see what they charge for interim innkeeping.

Ø  How do I find the person that is right for my property? The interim innkeeper will check out your property, and it is wise to check out the interim innkeeper. Due diligence is important in making the right hiring choice where both parties are concerned. Visit their website, check their references. Are they certified or have they previously owned a B&B? Taking the time to do the research will increase the likeliness of a successful match!

Checklist for using an interim innkeeper: 

Ø  A written agreement-Whenever you use an interim innkeeper, clear, concise and complete information regarding the job responsibilities should be outlined in an agreement. Also, this agreement should contain the start date, end date and length of the assignment; the agreed upon rate with information on deposit and final payment; travel arrangements and payment if applicable; a cancellation policy; and should be signed by both the innkeeper and the interim innkeeper. A well written agreement leaves very little room for misunderstandings.

Ø  Operations manual- Because your property is unique, it is helpful to have an operations manual prepared for the interim innkeeper. Some interim innkeepers will send a checklist for you to complete prior to their arrival. While gathering and documenting this information can be time consuming, it is extremely valuable to create a seamless transition.

Ø  Training Day- Set aside a day for you and the interim innkeeper to go over the information you have given them. Depending on their proximity, this day can be some time before you leave or the day before you leave. This time is valuable and may be a paid training or not depending on your agreement.

Ø  Communication-Be in communication with the interim innkeeper. After the agreement is signed, check in periodically before the assignment. After the assignment is complete, set aside a time for you both to “debrief” regarding the assignment.

As an innkeeper, you are very well aware of the demands this type of business places on you. Sometimes all it takes to recharge yourself is getting away for a day or two without the phones and the guests. Call on a qualified interim innkeeper today so that you can have peace of mind tomorrow!

Where do you find a qualified Interim Innkeeper? The Interim Innkeepers Network (IIN) is a network of more than 40 individuals and couples who are committed to the innkeeping profession with experience ranging from newcomers to members who previously owned their own B&B. In addition, some of our members offer educational training for those considering a career in the Bed and Breakfast industry. IIN is dedicated to connecting Bed and Breakfast/Inn owners with quality individuals and couples who are able to provide professional innkeeping services when needed. Our mission is to maintain effective communication between hospitality properties, including bed and breakfasts, country inns, boutique hotels, and our members for the purpose of providing Interim Innkeeping and longer term Managing Innkeeping services. www.interiminnkeepers.net