It�s very interesting to observe how industries that are governed by the clock package and market their services. The importance of time takes on a new meaning when companies have to �use it or lose it.� Today hoteliers are some of the more creative thinkers in regards to pricing and selling their product. They see the wisdom of selling in a variety of ways, including the bartering of their space.

Here�s a look at the different ways they move their inventory:

�  Super-saver rates, for those who make reservations at least 29 days in advance. (This marketing strategy is similar to the airlines.)

�  Corporate rates, which typically are discounted 10% to 50% ... when one shows a company ID, or even a business card.

�  Discounts to members of clubs, organizations and other national affiliations such as frequent flyer plans, auto or oil-company travel clubs, and AARP senior citizens.

�  Special weekend guest rates. These concessions are due to increased weekend vacancies in the big city hotels that cater to business travelers Monday through Thursday.

�  Free accommodations are available from tour organizers, when one hustles up four or more paying travelers for their tours.

Hotel industry accounting firm Laventhol & Horwath reports that it�s often possible to get a better hotel rate than the one posted. All you need to do is ask. (Discounts of 10% to 20% were available for the asking at one-third of 270 luxury hotels surveyed by the firm.)

For members of a trade exchange, often the easiest and �best� rates for hotel rooms are those acquired with trade dollars. That�s because those dollars have superb leverage having been earned at your company�s variable cost-of-doing business.