How to make a great first impression as an Airbnb host
One of the best things about being an Airbnb host is the opportunity to welcome guests from all over the world into your home. There are a few key things you can do to make a great first impression and ensure that your guests have a comfortable stay. First, take some time to learn about your guests and their interests. I’m not talking about peppering them with a million personal questions and being overbearing, but rather asking a couple of open questions to see if they give you any information about their visit. This will help you to personalize your messaging and make them feel like you are truly excited to host them.
When do you make a first impression? You might say “when you meet someone for the first time, or when they arrive at your Airbnb,” but first impressions occur the moment people start to form an opinion about you. For your property that happens when they see the cover image of your listing, read the title, and perhaps the first couple of sentences in your description. The first impression of you as a host has to do with your profile picture, and how you respond to their booking or inquiry message.
How your Airbnb listing can make a great first impression
There’s no doubt that great photographs can make a huge difference when it comes to your Airbnb listing. If you’re not confident in making photographs that you love for your Airbnb listing then hire a professional photographer immediately. I promise you will make your money back very quickly and your future guests will compliment your space in their opening message (which always feels good given how much love we put into our homes).
When selecting your cover photograph or hero photograph ask yourself what’s the best part about your home or location? If you’re not immediately sure ask yourself a few questions: Are people traveling to my location for something very specific like a beach or a ski resort? Is my home unique in any way? Do I have a great kitchen? For example, I have a tiny house in the middle of Durham, NC and even though it’s basically in the middle of the city my property has dense trees so the photo is of the yard with the whole tiny house making it look like it’s in the woods. I also have a geodesic dome with a really fun mural on the inside so that’s the feature image I’ve chosen.
In addition, professional photos can help you to stand out from the competition. With so many listings on Airbnb, it’s important to have photos that show off your home in its best light. Don’t be afraid to test which photos work best, and ask people you know which photo they like best. That is, if they are the types of guests you would like to attract. I have a friend that hates all things beach houses so I would never solicit their opinion about my Outer Banks beach house right?
Your profile photo is important
Having a great profile photo is important for several reasons. First, it is the initial image that potential Airbnb guests see when they visit your listing page (so they’ve clicked on your cover image and are now looking at your house listing). You really want to make sure that it is friendly and welcoming. Second, a good profile photo can help to create a more honest and open relationship with the people you interact with online, and most importantly, a casual and friendly profile photo can help to put people at ease, making them more likely to want to chat with you and book your home. Remember guests are taking a leap of faith booking your Airbnb and if your profile photo looks like you’re a professional fighter or you just use a horrible driver’s license photo people aren’t going to extend you a lot of trust and confidence (two crucial things you need to get a booking).
My profile photo is me holding my dog Florence with a big smile and making eye contact with the lens. My goal is that potential guests think I’m a dog person and I’m approachable.
What you write and how long it takes you to respond are important
When you’re planning a trip, the last thing you want is to feel like you’re constantly chasing down information. That’s why it’s so important for Airbnb hosts to respond quickly and efficiently to any questions potential guests have. I always aim to respond within an hour, but 30 minutes is even better. This shows that you’re on top of things and that you’re enthusiastic about hosting. It also makes it easier for guests to get the information they need to feel confident about booking your Airbnb. My tip is to: thank them for reaching out, answer any questions they have, and make sure you respond quickly. It’ll go a long way in making your guests feel welcomed and heard.
When your guest is planning to travel they want to know how responsive the host is. After all, they’ll likely have questions about the space or the area, and they’ll want someone who can respond quickly and help you out with issues or make quality recommendations.
When you are responding to messages from your current or potential guests respond with positive language. Even when someone is asking a question you need to say no to you can do that in a polite and friendly way. Potential guests might want to know what the Airbnb cancellation policy is, or what specific amenity limitations you have.
Make recommendations for your guests
Create a list of local restaurants, bars, and attractions that your guests can reference during their stay. Airbnb makes it easy to attach a guidebook with geotags and photos of all sorts of local attractions and useful information. I send these messages out before their arrival so guests have a plan when they arrive and they can build some excitement (plus make reservations if need be).
Welcome them with a personalized note and a few snacks or drinks
We have a postcard made welcoming them to our town. If your rental home is in a vacation destination perhaps include a bottle of sparkling wine as I do for our Outer Banks Airbnb properties. You could also consider buying something made locally like a chocolate bar or toffee. Have some fun with it and make it something not too pricy.
First impressions are made BEFORE your guest arrives
By following these simple tips, you can make sure that your guests create a great first impression which will make the whole hosting process better. First, be sure to communicate clearly and promptly with your guests. Secondly, go the extra mile to make your home welcoming and comfortable. Finally, be available for your guests if they have any questions or needs. By providing great hospitality
Happy first impression creating!
