Reduce Your Chances of Getting Ghosted By Potential Guests

Have you ever experienced a potential guest who sounded extremely interested in staying at your accommodation, asks a ton of questions and then disappears? You may have even reached out after the radio silence and still nothing. Simply put — you’ve been ghosted.

Being ghosted by someone you thought was interested can be deeply disappointing. After all, your time is precious, and it can feel like you wasted energy on someone who didn’t align best with your property. While it may be difficult to determine why you were ghosted, there is a way to lessen your chances of it happening.

Here are 5 tips to help you find the best guests for your bed and breakfast.

1. Establish Your Ideal Guest's Persona

Brainstorm a list of qualities that your perfect guest would have. Here are some questions to help get you started:

• Who is my property best suited for?
• What are the common reasons people choose my place?
• What are my best amenities?

Once you have determined your targeted audience, make sure your listing and advertising have them in mind. Don’t forget that your inn may not be perfect for everyone, but once you take the time to figure out who it is perfect for, the more likely you are to attract that type of guest.

2. Use High-Quality Images and a Vivid Description

You want your photos to portray your bed and breakfast exactly as it is and what it could feel like as a guest. Accuracy in your photos counts just as much as aesthetics. Not to mention, having accurate photos can help speed up the process if you need to file an insurance claim.

While taking photos of your property, keep in mind that images should be compelling, visually inviting, and supportive of your well-crafted description. Invite guests’ eyes to explore your property before they even step foot in the door. Consider your inn’s photos a virtual pamphlet highlighting its best features. 

3. Utilize Social Media to Create Engaging Content

Social media is one the cheapest and quickest ways to advertise your inn. Take time each week to create a social media plan that shows off your property and the amenities that come with staying at it.

Go beyond the basics and upload your favorite places near your property. Potential guests will love learning about the local spots. Be an online tour guide of the things your town and property have to offer. Don’t be afraid to play into your city’s vibe! Feature new restaurants, attractions and stores near your area. Some travelers may already be familiar with that town and are interested in learning more about the unexpected and new sights.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Them Questions

Asking your guests a few questions should be relaxed and conversational. Don’t think of it as an interrogation. Try starting with these basic questions:

• What are the full names and contact information of those on the reservation?
• Will anyone be visiting during your stay?
• Do you have any questions regarding the house rules?

As a host, you want to develop a good relationship with your guests. It helps to know a little more about their trip and what they are expecting to do. This is also a great opportunity to fill them in on some things going on around town. Asking your potential guests questions can help both parties feel more at ease.

When communicating, watch out for these red flags that could lead to ghosting:

1. They ask more questions than normal. A few questions from potential guests are normal, however, after so many, it can be seen as a red flag. A good recommendation is to answer the first few questions and then address the others when they arrive for their stay. Too many questions can be a key indicator for a guest that might be hard work.

2. Conversations begin to feel one-sided. Communication is key. If you and a potential guest are messaging back and forth and the conversation begins to dwindle when you ask questions about their stay — you may want to move on.

3. Trust your instincts. If your gut is telling you that something seems off, you should trust that feeling.

5. Check Guest's Reviews and Profiles If Possible

Reviews are everything. Reading the reviews of your potential guests is equally as important as the reviews about your listing. If there are any major red flags, they are usually easy to spot when reading the reviews hosts have left about the guest.

No Spooky Business Around Here

We won’t ghost you! With decades of experience and unbeatable service, the team at CBIZ Innkeepers Insurance is ready to help! To learn more about insuring your business, connect with a member of our team.

This blog may contain scenarios that are provided as examples only. Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued. The information provided is general in nature and may be affected by changes in law or the interpretation of such laws. The reader is advised to contact a professional prior to taking any action based upon this information.

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