Create an Affiliate Program for Past Guests

GM. This is Hosts Toast, where we cut up your property sandwich into little triangles for you

Here’s what's in today’s filling:

Airbnb shows its AI teeth and acquires a startup for over $200m! and we look at how best to prepare for Christmas as a host, in the first of our 3 part guide..

📰 Interesting News from the Property World

Airbnb acquires secretive AI firm launched by Siri co-founder

1. Big Bucks for Brainy Bots: Airbnb splurged around $200 million (unconfirmed) on GamePlanner.AI, a mysterious AI startup with no web footprint but a history of founders (Adam Cheyer and Siamak Hodjat) who've previously dabbled in creating digital geniuses like Apple's Siri and Samsung's Bixby. It's a bit like buying a ghost, but a really smart ghost.

2. GamePlanner's Ghostly Existence: Despite its stealth mode operation (so secretive that even LinkedIn struggles to shed light on its personnel), GamePlanner, led by a 12-person team, seems to be Airbnb's secret sauce in blending AI with design. Think of it as a shadowy AI consultancy, now playing for Team Airbnb.

3. Airbnb's AI Ambition and the Travel Concierge Dream: CEO Brian Chesky's vision for an AI-powered travel concierge is getting real with this acquisition, the first since Airbnb went public. Chesky's mantra: "Augmenting humanity with AI," but in a very Airbnb way - probably means your future digital concierge might also leave virtual mints on your pillow.

💡 Tips and Advice/Things not to do

Look at creating an Affiliate Program for past guests (or Anyone to be fair)

Setting up an affiliate program for your Airbnb can be a strategic move to increase bookings and create a win-win scenario for both you and your past guests. Here are five reasons why:

1. Encourages Word-of-Mouth Marketing: By incentivizing past guests through affiliate rewards, you're turning them into active promoters of your property. People trust recommendations from friends and family, making this a powerful marketing tool.

2. Cost-Effective Advertising: Unlike traditional advertising, you only pay for results. This means you're spending money on confirmed bookings rather than just exposure, making it a more efficient use of your marketing budget.

3. Enhances Guest Loyalty: Offering rewards for referrals can make past guests feel valued and appreciated, increasing the likelihood they'll return or recommend your property to others. It's like giving them a reason to keep talking about their great experience.

4. Expands Your Reach: Each guest has their own network of contacts you might not otherwise access. An affiliate program helps tap into these networks, reaching potential guests who might not find your property through conventional channels.

The easiest way to set this up is to offer a discount code specific to that guest and whenever it is used then that affiliate gets a commission

🛠This Week’s House-Keeping

Maximizing bookings and revenue during the Christmas holiday season as an Airbnb host requires a blend of festive appeal, strategic marketing, and superior guest experience. Here are ten pieces of advice to help you make the most out of this lucrative time:

1. Festive Decorations: Embrace the holiday spirit by tastefully decorating your Airbnb. This doesn't just make for a welcoming atmosphere; it also makes your listing stand out in photos. Think twinkling lights, a Christmas tree, or a menorah to appeal to guests celebrating various holidays.

 2. Offer Seasonal Amenities: Provide amenities that align with the winter season, like a cozy fireplace setup, extra blankets, or a hot chocolate station. Small touches like these can make a big difference in guest satisfaction.

 3. Update Your Listing Photos: With your holiday decorations in place, update your listing photos to reflect this seasonal charm. High-quality, festive images can attract more attention and bookings

Parts 2 and 3 of these tips coming in the next few days ……