Delight Your Guests by Delivering the Unexpected—with J.T. McKay
Summary
This article discusses strategies to delight Airbnb guests and improve their experience. JT McKay shares tips on becoming a "story-seller" through your listing and house manual, automating messaging with personalization, and providing special touches during their stay. Hosts should consider incorporating these ideas to potentially improve reviews, encourage repeat bookings, and build a positive reputation.
Key Insights
- •The Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area is popular for short-term rentals due to its appeal as a 'Vegas for families' and its attraction for outdoor enthusiasts.
- •J.T. McKay operates 10 vacation rental units in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Action Items
- ✓Automate guest messaging with authenticity, by using customization tags, sending a first morning check-in message, or recording a custom welcome video.Effort: mediumImpact: medium
- ✓Provide a basket of selfie props, leverage QR codes for information, offer USB charging outlets and Bluetooth speakers, and offer V.I.G. discounts and free swag to delight guests.Effort: mediumImpact: medium
- ✓Become a "story-seller" in your listing to attract the ideal guest by showing respect for space.Effort: lowImpact: medium
- ✓Include information about yourself in your house manual to build a personal connection and infuse it with personality and fun.Effort: lowImpact: medium
Tools & Resources
- →Airbnb on Autopilot: Save Time and Boost Profits for Your Vacation Rental: J.T. McKay is the author of Airbnb on Autopilot: Save Time and Boost Profits for Your Vacation Rental.
- →Loom: Resources mentioned include Loom and Netflix.
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