Hey, good news - shake off the doldrums, get out the feather duster, chances are that your hotel’s busy season is starting soon.

How to be ready to put your best foot forward?

First, get out the digital camera - okay, your iPhone - and update the pictures of the property on your website and all other sites where pictures appear. If you really want to make a good impression, throw some business to a talented local photographer. The results are usually worth the expense.

Are all the other marketing materials up to date? Prices, amenities, special deals and offers, terms, everything is correct?

While you’re on your website, see if you can make it more intuitive, easier to navigate. Nine times out of ten this will mean decluttering.

Keep your name in people’s minds. Check your ads and make sure that when people are making their summer plans they’ll know to consider you.

Start your social media buzzing. You might have been a bit in hibernation over the winter, but you have to let everybody know you’re bustling around getting ready for their stay.

Now’s the best time possible to spruce up the place, give the old girl a facelift. Take an inventory of the bed linen, towels, duvets and room furniture and replace any that are torn or stained.

Replace the teabags or coffee sachets that have been there since… well, you don’t know how long. Spiff up the glasses, silverware, plates and other tableware.

Give an extra clean to the most heavily-travelled guest areas, maybe even replacing carpet in some areas.