The Airbnb Superhost

Neil Harvey
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Aug 20, 2024 • 18min

#028 - Customer Road Map 10 - When a Good Host Gets a Bad Review

In this episode, Neil continues to look at the power of Airbnb's review system, with a focus on the challenging topic of bad reviews for hosts on the platform. With over 2,000 guests and 1,000 reviews under his belt, Neil shares his insights on how to handle and learn from negative feedback. He discusses the different types of bad reviews, the importance of analyzing the root cause of issues, and the impact bad reviews can have on a host's reputation and Superhost status. KEY TAKEAWAYS Maintaining a high average review score is crucial for Superhost status, as it shields hosts from losing the badge even if a rare bad review comes in. When faced with a bad review, it's recommended to sleep on it before responding. This helps in responding professionally and avoiding aggressive or defensive reactions. Understanding the motives behind bad reviews, whether justified or not, can help hosts in appropriately addressing the feedback and improving their services. Bad reviews can affect a host's reputation, confidence, and Superhost Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), potentially leading to loss of bookings and Superhost status. Viewing bad reviews as feedback and analyzing the root causes of issues can lead to improvements in hosting practices and guest satisfaction. BEST MOMENTS "Nobody sets out to get a bad review deliberately. We want the gold every time." "I simply took it upon myself to be deliberate in asking my guests what time they anticipated using the tub and then heat the tub up for them to the correct temperature." "Bad reviews affect our Superhost Key Performance Indicators or KPIs. To obtain and maintain a Superhost status, we need an average review score of a minimum of 4.8 out of 5." "If you get a bad review, sleep on it before responding. Their perspective is their reality. Okay, so what happened?" "May your rooms be booked, your reviews five-star, and none of them bad." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Aug 13, 2024 • 17min

#027 Customer Road Map 9 - Reviews, Reviews, Reviews

In this episode, Neil looks at the importance of reviews in the Airbnb ecosystem. He explains the review system on Airbnb, highlighting its role in building trust between hosts and guests. Neil shares how reviews have helped him make improvements to his accommodations and spy on his competition.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Maintaining excellent review scores is crucial for achieving and maintaining Superhost status on Airbnb. Reviews provide real-time feedback that can help hosts make improvements to their accommodations. Using the review system to spy on competition can provide valuable insights into what guests appreciate and what they don't. Instant booking feature on Airbnb listings can save time, increase booking numbers, and ensure only guests with good reviews can book instantly. Responding to feedback in reviews and making necessary changes can lead to repeat bookings and overall success as a host. BEST MOMENTS "Since embarking on the Airbnb journey, I've turned over well in excess of a quarter of a million pounds just from my own home only."  "It's like sharing your thoughts in a secret envelope so everyone feels safe to say what they really think." "By reacting to her feedback in the review quickly, I estimate I've had at least another additional five bookings from her." "Using the reviews for feedback and research all feeds into one of my previous Superhost secrets of using the slight edge to make improvements as you move along your journey." "If the guests had no reviews at all, or they have bad reviews, they can't instantly book." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Aug 6, 2024 • 14min

#026 Customer Road Map 8 - Exit Strategy - They're Leaving!

In today's episode, Neil shares his own advice and insights on how to ensure guests leave happy and satisfied. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive impression until the very end of the guest's stay, highlighting the impact it can have on reviews, recommendations, returning guests, and potential rewards. Neil provides practical tips on how to bid farewell to guests, and the best ways to leave a lasting positive impression.  KEY TAKEAWAYS It is crucial to treat guests with the same level of care and attention during their departure as during their arrival to leave a lasting positive impression. Sending a thank you message or video to departing guests can enhance their experience and show appreciation for their stay. Providing clear instructions for guests upon departure, such as key return and gate access, can prevent confusion and ensure a smooth exit. Positive interactions during guest departures can lead to favorable reviews, recommendations, returning guests, and potential future rewards. Guest departures mark the beginning of a potential ongoing relationship, emphasizing the importance of parting ways on a positive note for future success. BEST MOMENTS "My mission is to help you reach the same levels of success with Airbnb and follow your own dreams." "The last thing we want to do is to trip and fall over a hurdle at the last moment and leave a negative impression with your guests." "I've attended many live seminars over the years and so many times I have witnessed an MC introduce the most amazing person." "Reviews are one of the most used tools when guests assess whether or not they want to book a property." "In a home where the host is all set, a traveler and local first met. With a smile and good cheer, it soon became clear, strangers are friends not made yet." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Jul 31, 2024 • 18min

#025 Customer Road Map 7 - Create Harmony - Create Wealth

In this episode, Neil shares his insights on creating a harmonious guest experience to ensure repeat business and increased income. Neil emphasizes the importance of setting clear boundaries and providing guidance to guests through simple principles and house rules. He recounts personal experiences and practical solutions he has implemented in his own hosting journey, such as labeling shelves in the fridge, creating guest-specific storage areas, and using clear signage throughout the property.  KEY TAKEAWAYS The key to success in hosting is to create harmony among guests, leading to a positive experience and potential repeat business. Clearly labeling spaces and providing instructions helps guests understand expectations and reduces confusion. Establishing clear house rules and guidelines in a guest guidebook can help guests feel comfortable and know what is expected of them. Introducing guests to each other and fostering a sense of community can enhance the overall experience for everyone. It's important to adapt hosting strategies to suit individual preferences and property setups for optimal guest satisfaction. BEST MOMENTS "Success is a journey, not a destination." "Create harmony and you'll create wealth. When you can create an environment where a group of guests get on with each other because there is harmony between them, they feel comfortable staying with you and love coming to your place." "I always introduce my guests to one another to break the ice as the saying goes, which means that harmonious conversations between these individuals is so much easier the next time they meet." "With harmony comes repeat business. And repeat business means more income." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Jul 23, 2024 • 16min

#024 Customer Road Map 6 - They're Here!

Today, Neil is looking at the importance of creating a positive first impression when guests arrive. Sharing his personal experiences and strategies for building rapport with guests, Neil emphasizes the "tea trap" routine he uses to connect with new arrivals. By offering guests a cup of tea and engaging in a 10-minute conversation, Neil establishes a welcoming atmosphere and gains valuable insights into his guests' needs and backgrounds.  The host Neil refers to in the podcast is in Oakham in the county of Rutland, UK. Her name is Mary and here's her listing https://bit.ly/Mary-in-Rutland. KEY TAKEAWAYS Focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests upon arrival, as first impressions are crucial. Develop a routine, such as the "tea trap," to get to know your guests and make them feel comfortable. Personalize the guest experience by offering small gestures like greeting guests with an umbrella in the rain or helping with their bags. Utilize technology like CCTV cameras and doorbell cameras to monitor guest arrivals and departures. Building rapport with guests through genuine interactions can lead to repeat bookings and positive recommendations. BEST MOMENTS "Success comes one step at a time. So long as we're prepared to take the next step, we'll get there." "My answer was, treat everyone as if they were your best mate coming to stay." "Just doing this simple act of having a chat over a cup of tea is incredibly powerful in helping to get my guests to feel comfortable." "There's a very subtle side benefit to all of this. I know that I am being watched by the other guests in the house." "When the tea leaves come to a rest, they say future and fate manifest. Treat your guests like a mate and you'll alter your fate because your guests will think you're the best." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Jul 16, 2024 • 16min

#023 Customer Road Map 5 - Prepare to Impress Your Guests

In this episode, Neil shares his journey from hosting just one room to welcoming over 2,000 guests and generating significant revenue. He emphasizes the importance of first impressions and details the 10-second rule, where guests form opinions quickly upon arrival. Neil provides valuable insights on preparing the property for guests, including creating a checklist with four key elements: bed, bin, bath, and beauty. He also highlights the significance of personal touches, such as addressing guests by name and providing treats to enhance their experience.  KEY TAKEAWAYS The 10-second rule emphasizes the importance of making a positive first impression on guests to set the tone for their stay. Developing a basic checklist with key tasks like bed, bin, bath, and beauty can help ensure that the room is ready for guests. Adding treats or small gestures like a handwritten note, local snacks, or a bottle of wine can make guests feel welcomed and cared for. Implementing Internet of Things (IOT) devices like automated lighting or heating can enhance the guest experience and make their stay more comfortable. Using guest names on room doors and having clear indicators of guest arrival, like slightly closing the door, can improve security and communication within the property. BEST MOMENTS "If they like it they'll tend to excuse everything and if they don't they'll find everything." "I remember going to a hotel once on a business trip... Yuck!" "No matter how mundane a task may seem, create a basic checklist on paper to refer to." "Knowing this, right from the start, even on day one... Alistair, this is your room." "As I've said before, people will remember how you made them feel long after they recall what you said or did." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Jul 9, 2024 • 16min

#022 Customer Road Map 4 - Be a Guiding Star

Today, Neil Harvey divulges his secrets to effectively communicating with guests before their arrival. With experience in over 2,000 guests hosted and a quarter of a million pounds in turnover, Neil emphasizes the importance of providing clear instructions for guests to find and access the property hassle-free. He discusses his evolution from sending random messages to creating a systematic approach using standard messages and eventually incorporating a video guide.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Consistently communicate with guests after they book but before they arrive to provide clear instructions on how to find and access the property. Create a video guide showing guests how to find the property and gain access, as visual instructions are often more effective than written ones. Ensure important information, such as the video link and essential access details, is placed at the beginning of the message to increase the likelihood of guests reading it. Adapt communication strategies based on guest behavior, such as sending messages earlier for guests traveling from abroad. Utilize creative methods, like limericks or fun rhymes, to reinforce important points and make instructions more memorable for guests. BEST MOMENTS "My mission is to help you on the same journey, which all starts by consistently gaining the golden super host status and the coveted guest favourite badge and all the benefits that come with them." "I have had so many regular Airbnb users say to me, I have never seen anyone do this before. It's so easy to use. Thank you. It's brilliant."  "I truly believe actually that instructions in general across the board in whatever field tend to fail to work because we know what we mean when we write them." "Well, had we had a picture of the piece of art he was referring to the alleyway would have been so easy and immediate to identify and we wouldn't have had the frustration of driving past with traffic behind us on a one-way street." "Problems will often arise from instruction that we devise. What we think that we've said's not the same in their head, so send them a video. That's wise." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Jul 3, 2024 • 16min

#021 Customer Road Map 3 - Is There a Silly Question?

In this episode, Neil dissects the crucial stage of communicating with guests before they book. With over 2,000 guests hosted and eight years of experience, Neil shares valuable insights on how to handle guest inquiries effectively. He emphasizes the importance of responding promptly, addressing all questions with respect, and never making guests feel silly for asking. Ultimately, Neil guides hosts on how to navigate guest inquiries and create a positive booking experience.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Guests appreciate fast responses, even if it's just to acknowledge their inquiry. People may have different language abilities and cultural norms, so it's important not to judge based on initial messages. Responding to questions, even if they seem obvious, shows good customer service and can help secure bookings. It's important to treat all questions with respect and provide helpful answers, as it can impact the guest's decision to book. How you make guests feel through your responses can build trust and influence their decision to book with you. BEST MOMENTS "Speed of response is so important. I've had guests turn up to my home saying things like, 'oh thank you so much for your fast response.'" "We never know the backstory of the person asking the questions. We don't know what experiences they've had." "Never make anyone feel stupid for asking you a question, because we have no idea what the long-term value of that guest could be." "We rarely remember what people say or do to us, but we always remember how they made us feel." "Emotions are such a big deal, we use them to tell us what's real. Whatever you did, told a truth or a fib, guests recall how you made them feel." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Jun 25, 2024 • 15min

#020 The Customer Road Map 2 - The Calendar is Your Crystal Ball

In this episode, Neil shares valuable insights on how hosts can take control of their bookings calendar by creating their own "crystal ball" using a spreadsheet. By delving into the power of the Airbnb calendar and the importance of staying on top of bookings, Neil provides practical tips on maximizing revenue, increasing occupancy rates, and personalizing guest experiences. He emphasizes the significance of regularly checking and syncing the calendar with other plans to ensure a smooth guest experience and financial success. KEY TAKEAWAYS Keep track of bookings and guest interactions by using a personal spreadsheet alongside the Airbnb calendar. Regularly review cash flow, occupancy rates, earnings per room, guest demographics, and average room rates to make informed decisions and optimize listings. Take advantage of settings like adjusting booking availability, blocking dates, activating instant book, and setting pricing strategies to control bookings effectively. Minimize cancellations to maintain Superhost status by staying organized, communicating promptly with guests, and utilizing Airbnb's cancellation policies. Develop a daily habit of cross-referencing your Airbnb calendar with other scheduling tools to ensure accuracy and prevent missed messages or bookings. BEST MOMENTS "I find it enables me to look into my future... I create my own crystal ball." "Knowing the average room rate means that I can anticipate how many more bookings I need to hit my monthly target." "You are totally in control of when any guests can book with you." "Cancellations are a biggie... it will definitely negatively affect your super status." "Make it a daily habit to check that your Airbnb calendar synchronizes with everything else that you do." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Jun 18, 2024 • 16min

#019 The Customer Road Map 1 - Your Offering

In today's episode, Neil delves into the crucial aspect of the customer journey, focusing on the start of this journey. Neil emphasizes the importance of understanding the customer journey and how it impacts the success of an Airbnb business. He shares insights on creating a roadmap for guests, starting with the offering, which includes elements such as photos, written descriptions, badges, reviews, and pricing. Neil provides valuable tips on how hosts can optimize their listings to attract and retain guests, ultimately leading to positive reviews and repeat bookings. Through engaging storytelling and practical advice, Neil highlights the significance of building trust and eliminating doubt in the guest-host relationship to ensure a seamless and successful customer journey. KEY TAKEAWAYS The customer journey is the complete experience a customer has while interacting with a business, from initial research to post-stay review on Airbnb. Mapping out the customer journey helps hosts identify opportunities to improve guest experiences and increase the likelihood of bookings and positive reviews. The offering, including photos, descriptions, amenities, badges, reviews, and pricing, plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining guests. High-quality photos and detailed descriptions are essential in showcasing the property and enticing potential guests to book. Removing doubt and ambiguity in the guest experience is crucial for building trust and ensuring guests feel comfortable and satisfied, leading to repeat bookings. BEST MOMENTS "My mission is to help you to gain the golden Superhost status and the coveted Guest Favourite badge and all the benefits that come with them, no matter where you are in your Airbnb journey." "The journey starts long before they actually book, so the roadmap is there for us to be able to lead them to the place where they press buy." "A good roadmap makes them feel comfortable with us. And trust me, if at any time our guest feels uncomfortable with us, they will disappear." "The biggest destroyer of any relationship is when doubt creeps into it. When doubt exists, do you really believe what someone is telling you? Do you trust them? No."  "Beware of the little white lie. And if you are wondering why, if you cause any doubt and you then get found out, your business will struggle to fly." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.

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