The Airbnb Superhost

In this episode, Neil Harvey delves into the often-overlooked power of business cards for Airbnb hosts. Drawing from his own experience, Neil emphasizes how a well-designed business card can serve as a tangible reminder of your property and a professional representation of your hosting brand. He shares essential tips on creating an effective card, including the importance of branding, simplicity, high-quality images, and key information to include. Neil also discusses various ways to utilize business cards for networking, guest welcome packs, and social media promotion, highlighting their potential to enhance guest retention and word-of-mouth referrals. KEY TAKEAWAYS * Business cards serve as a tangible reminder of who you are as an Airbnb host and what you offer, helping to create memorable experiences for guests and encouraging word-of-mouth referrals. * When creating a business card, focus on branding, simplicity, high-quality images, and the feel of the card. Ensure that the design aligns with your property’s style and is easy to read. * Your business card should feature your name and job title, contact information, a photo (either of yourself or your property), and a catchy slogan or tagline that reflects your property’s vibe. * Distribute your business cards during networking events, include them in welcome packs for guests, and share them on social media to maximize exposure and potential bookings. * Keep a sufficient supply of business cards on hand at all times to seize opportunities for promotion whenever they arise, ensuring you can connect with potential guests or partners effectively. BEST MOMENTS "Having a business card isn't just about giving out your contact info. It's about presenting your property as a professional business and showing your guests that you take what you do seriously." "Believe it or not, but out of the eight years that I've been a super host, I've only started using a business card this year." "A picture is worth a thousand words, right? So how about including a high quality image of your property?" "Whenever I think about business cards, I always remember the scene in the film American Psycho, where the psycho in question, Andrew Bateman, is at a board meeting and he and his colleagues share their business cards." "Your business card is often the first physical touchpoint a potential guest will have with your Airbnb. Make it count." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil]  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.

In this episode, Neil explores the world of upselling within the Airbnb hosting experience. He explains what upselling is, why it's beneficial for both hosts and guests, and shares personal insights from his own successful Airbnb journey, where he has generated over £300,000. Neil outlines three main reasons to embrace upselling: increased profits, enhanced guest satisfaction, and standing out in a competitive market. He provides practical examples of upsell opportunities, including convenience add-ons, welcome packages, and on-site enhancements, while emphasizing the importance of a soft-sell approach to avoid alienating guests.  KEY TAKEAWAYS * Upselling is a sales technique that encourages guests to pay a little more for enhanced services or experiences, making it a valuable strategy for increasing revenue in the Airbnb market. * Implementing upselling can lead to increased profits (potentially 10% to 30%), improved guest satisfaction (resulting in better reviews), and differentiation from competitors, helping hosts stand out in a crowded market. * Hosts can consider various upsell options, including convenience and comfort add-ons (like early check-ins), welcome or celebration packages (such as luxury welcome baskets), and on-site enhancements (like hot tubs or private chef services). * It’s crucial to adopt a soft selling approach when promoting upsells. Mentioning available upgrades casually in welcome messages allows guests to express interest without feeling pressured, fostering a more positive experience. * Clearly communicate the details and costs of upsell options to avoid confusion. Transparency ensures that guests understand what they are purchasing, enhancing their overall experience and satisfaction. BEST MOMENTS "The idea of an upsell is to always offer a perceived better alternative to what your guests would have originally booked or experienced." "Effective upselling strategies can potentially increase profits anything from 10% to 30% in the short-term rental and holiday market." "Unique services can tip the scale in your favor. Don't blend in like a zebra. Be a leopard and shine." "The soft approach is the best approach. You absolutely do not want to hard sell your add-ons to your potential guests." "Charging more can actually improve the way your guests remember their stay at your Airbnb." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil]  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.

In this episode, Neil dives into the importance of making your Airbnb property eco-friendly. With tourism contributing significantly to global greenhouse emissions, Neil shares practical tips for hosts looking to reduce their carbon footprint while attracting eco-conscious guests. From using eco-friendly cleaning products and incorporating houseplants to implementing energy-efficient technologies and water-saving fixtures, he provides actionable advice that can be easily integrated into any property. Neil emphasizes the benefits of promoting these green initiatives to potential guests and encourages hosts to take small, manageable steps towards sustainability. KEY TAKEAWAYS * Begin your journey to making your Airbnb more eco-friendly by implementing simple changes, such as using eco-friendly cleaning products and removing single-use plastic bottles. You don't have to do everything at once; start with one tip and gradually add more. * Adding houseplants to your property not only enhances aesthetics but also improves air quality. Choose low-maintenance plants that can thrive in your accommodation to create a more inviting and eco-friendly environment. * Providing recycling and composting bins is an easy way to promote sustainability. However, be prepared to educate guests on proper waste disposal, as not everyone may understand what can be recycled. * Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances and lighting, such as LED bulbs, which consume less energy and last longer. Consider smart technology for better energy management, like programmable lighting and heating systems. * Make sure to highlight your green practices in your Airbnb listing and provide information to guests upon arrival. This not only attracts eco-conscious travelers but also encourages them to engage with your sustainability efforts in a fun and friendly manner. BEST MOMENTS "Tourism accounts for up to 10% of global greenhouse emissions, and the short term rental market is a big part of this." "Using eco-friendly products is one of the easiest and most effective ways to start." "Providing recycling and composting bins is another easy way to make your Airbnb green." "LED lights are a great option as they use up to 80% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent light bulbs." "If you're planning to go green, let the world know. An increasing number of travellers are seeking eco-friendly accommodations." CONTACT DETAILS * Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] * Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com [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.

In this episode, Neil shares essential insights on how to handle emergencies that may arise during a guest's stay. Drawing from his extensive experience as a live-in host, Neil discusses the importance of being prepared for medical emergencies, personal safety issues, and crime incidents. He emphasizes the need for hosts to remain calm and collected in such situations, providing practical tips on how to respond effectively.  KEY TAKEAWAYS * Always have a first aid kit on your property and ensure guests know how to contact emergency services. It's crucial to provide them with the correct emergency numbers, especially if they are from another country. * If an emergency occurs, remain calm and professional. Your demeanor can help reassure guests and create a stable environment while emergency services are responding. * Keep written notes about what happens during an emergency, including what you see, what is said, and the actions taken. This documentation can be valuable for any follow-up discussions. * Provide guests with essential information, such as emergency service numbers and your property address, prominently displayed in your house rules. This ensures they can quickly access the information they need in a crisis. * Encourage guests to download the app "What Three Words," which allows them to communicate their exact location using a unique three-word address. This can be especially helpful in emergencies when precise location details are necessary. BEST MOMENTS "If you've never dealt with the emergency services before, by the end of this episode you'll be confident with dealing with whatever happens." "It's vital you stay out of the service workers' way as they work. Let them get on with their job." "Empower your guests with the right information and tools to be able to deal with an emergency." "In the UK, we simply dial 999 to be put through to the police, the fire brigade or the ambulance service." "What Three Words is an app that can pinpoint just where you are, which could be a lifesaver." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil]  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.

In this episode, Neil shares a captivating story about a guest named Maria, who became a bit too comfortable during her stays at his home. Neil recounts his experiences hosting over 2,000 guests and the unique challenges and joys that come with being a live-in host. He describes how Maria, an Italian lecturer, began to treat his home as her own, bringing in personal items and even furniture. After a humorous yet necessary conversation about boundaries, Neil reflects on the importance of knowing one's limits as a host.  KEY TAKEAWAYS * It's important to create a welcoming environment for guests, but hosts must also establish boundaries to ensure their home remains their own. Recognizing when a guest is becoming too comfortable is crucial. * Open and honest communication with guests can prevent misunderstandings. If a situation arises that makes a host uncomfortable, addressing it directly can lead to a positive resolution. * Different cultures have varying norms regarding hospitality and personal space. Being aware of these differences can help hosts navigate guest interactions more effectively. * Hosts should identify their own "glass ceiling" regarding what is acceptable in their home. Knowing these limits helps in managing guest behaviour and maintaining a comfortable living space. * A successful hosting experience often leads guests to feel like they are visiting a second home. This can be a compliment, but it’s essential to balance this feeling with the host's need for personal space and order. BEST MOMENTS "As an Airbnb live-in host, you have to have the attitude that nothing will surprise you." "I decided this step-by-step invasion of my space had to stop... it's my job to make you feel at home, but it's not your job to make it your home." "When Maria expressed her comfortableness by slowly making my home her home, it was actually a huge compliment." "You just instinctively know when it's reached. Well, most people do." "Know in yourself where your glass ceiling is. When you know where it is, it's easy to distinguish what's acceptable to you and what is not." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil] Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com [https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil]  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.