All your efforts will be in vain if you do not make Airbnb marketing a priority. As a matter of fact, it is an activity that requires your attention throughout the year and during certain times you will have to work extra hard at promoting your property. Also, if you need to write an Airbnb business plan, you will have to include your Airbnb marketing plan that you will use to grow your business. Luckily there are a couple of tried and tested strategies which you can use to make your listing more visible and get those bookings.
1. Fill in the gaps
An incomplete profile will draw a blank. Double-check that you have indeed completed all the sections of your profile. It might be time-consuming, but complete Airbnb profiles rank higher in their search results.
Also, be sure to include a photo of yourself along with a short paragraph about yourself. Many hosts forget that their profile is a key aspect of their listing. After all, many guests decide to use Airbnb as they are searching for a more personal experience.
2. Price your place right
Selecting the right pricing strategy is key to any Airbnb marketing strategy. By giving thought to your competition, the season and any special events, you will be able to set a competitive price that will lead to bookings.
That being said, as reviews are the name of the game, it might be a good idea to start with a lower price so that you can get those five-star reviews. Then, once you have received a number of reviews, you can increase your price.
3. Change your listing description
From time to time it can be a good idea to make a few changes to your listing description. For instance, when it is the low season your Airbnb content marketing plan can emphasize amenities that guests are searching for during the low season. Alternatively, you might find that in order for your Airbnb marketing to be effective you have to aim your listing at a different kind of guest for the time being like business travelers instead of families.
Whatever the case might be – complete honesty should be your policy. Write a detailed description and title of your property that will captivate guests. If you are dishonest about what your place offers, you are bound to get unfavorable reviews.
4. Out with the old, in with the new
If your bookings are dwindling, it could be a sign that you need to include extra photos or even better yet replace your current photos with new high-quality photos that will showcase your property better. Be sure to include photo captions as it is said to be one easy way to boost your listing organically.
If your budget allows, it could be a great opportunity to make a few changes to your furnishings and decoration too before you start snapping those new photos.
5. Amen to amenities
Amenities are a great way to attract guests. Your place should at least provide all the essential amenities. However, if your budget allows it, try to add as many amenities as possible to your list.
6. Strive to become a Superhost
Once you have reached Superhost status, you will appear higher in Airbnb’s search rankings. What is more, you will also be able to flaunt the Superhost badge on your profile. In fact, some guests will consider only Superhost listings!
7. Social media
If you do not really have any money to spend on vacation rental marketing you can always turn to your network of colleagues, friends and family. With the help of social media such as LinkedIn, you can inform them about your listing and perhaps offer them a “friends-and-family” rate. Now combine some Airbnb email marketing with the ever powerful word of mouth and you are for sure to get a couple of bookings without having to spend any money on Airbnb marketing. Therefore, make hospitality your number one priority and you are on course to create a great rep for yourself.
The best Airbnb marketing plan is only as good as the host. Airbnb does not look kindly on hosts who cancel confirmed reservations or fail to reply quickly to guest inquiries. Therefore, nothing can beat providing a first-class service and immaculate property every time to each and every guest.