An Effective Airbnb Host Profile is Welcoming, Informative, and Well-Rounded. Here’s How to Create the Perfect First Impression.
One of the biggest challenges faced by Airbnb hosts, especially if you’re new to the game, is earning the trust of potential guests. These effective methods to creating your Airbnb host profile will assure guests of the person behind the screen.
Get Verified
Airbnb requires one level of verification, but potential guests may require multiple levels. Proof of identification is a number one concern for those who will be experiencing an Airbnb stay for the first time. To compete with Hotels who provide a direct website, staff photos, and several phone numbers- you will have to do the same. For optimal verification, link the following platforms to your Airbnb host profile:
- Social Media Account
- Two Phone Numbers
- Professional Email Address
These sources of verification help guests know you are not only serious about their trust but are also available on multiple channels.
Don’t Rely on Reviews/Ratings
A big mistake seasoned hosts make is putting their story in the hands of others. While long-term success as an Airbnb host will rely heavily on your overall delivery and reviews, you need to be the one who tells potential guests who you are and what you offer. Having great reviews on a blank profile can even diminish the value and validity of even the best reviews.
Write a Genuine Personal Bio
Your personal bio is where the magic happens. Write too little, and you lose your first impression. However, avoid a novel, this is no place to express your inner creative. Between personable and professional will be your sweet spot. Here you will describe the listing and yourself. Just as you would explain the benefits and details of your Airbnb, share what you offer as a host. Here are a few things to mention in your bio:
- Your relationship with the area (born/raised/went to college here)
- Your Profession
- Length and experience as a host
- Hobbies or downtime activities
- Tell them a little bit about your family/ your role in your family
The Airbnb listing reflects the space, the bio reflects you. You never know what will speak to a guest and turn a search result into a booking!
Choose the Perfect Profile Picture
Smile! No seriously…smile! Some may suggest using a professional picture like one from your LinkedIn
account. That’s a great idea, however, they aren’t hiring you as a teacher or an attorney. They are hiring you as a host. A warm, friendly, approachable photo is what guests want to see. Just as you would approach someone who is staying in your home, so you would approach an Airbnb guest as they visit your profile.
Your profile photo should be clear and front facing and resemble the profile photos in your verified social media accounts. If you’ve made drastic hair changes, try to select a photo that assures it’s you on all profiles.
Collect Airbnb Badges
There are a few available Airbnb badges for hosts to earn, and a lot more are in the development stage. These badges reflect your performance as a host and your contribution to the Airbnb community.
Currently, the most prestigious badge to decorate your host profile is the Superhost badge. For potential guests, seeing the Superhost badge on your profile provides assurance that you are as good as you say you are.
Now’s the perfect time to review your Airbnb host profile- better yet, have someone else review it and provide you feedback. What impression does your profile make? What are you missing? Applying these suggestions guarantees a well thought out Airbnb host profile that earns trusts and business.
Author: Amina Grace
