How to Increase the Value of a Guest Online

Today you're going to learn how to squeeze more money out of every guest that visits your property.

Most short-term rental owners think the job of marketing is done when a customer buys.

The road doesn't end there.

Once a customer books a stay, you now have an opportunity to maximize revenue from that sale.

Unfortunately, most people overlook this and continue to chase one guest at a time forever and ever.

Get more business through referrals

Most short-term rental owners I've talked with don't like the idea of referral marketing:

• It's to pushy.

• They're "booked enough".

• It's too much work.

Referral marketing shouldn't be pushy or take much more time. There are even some approaches where you don't have to say a word.

Here are 3 no-contact ways to increase the value of a guest.

Tactic 1: Post for Post on Social Media

I like this tactic because I've been a product of it and people typically have more friends on social media than in real life.

The best way to get referrals online is by asking guests to capture a moment from their stay then share it with friends on social media. In exchange, say you will repost their moment on your business page and tag them.

This approach works because being featured on your page boosts people's internet clout.

Who doesn't love free clout?

Tactic 2: Giveaways Coupons or Full Stays

Jon Kreye is a very popular creator in our space who understands the power of giveaways.

Every time I see vacation rentals post the chance to win coupons or free stays on social media, the comment sections go bananas.

Here is a social media caption example that will get your followers to tell their friends about you:

Promoting a giveaway will reach more eyeballs on social media through word-of-mouth all without saying a single word to guests.

More eyeballs on your property means more people likely to book a stay.

Note: Coupons can be given away in-person, but to get any traction will take forever. Ain't nobody got time for that. Use the internet.

Tactic 3: Give your guests stuff

People love free stuff. You will love free stuff too if it makes money.

Giving away physical stuff doesn't happen online, but it's worth mentioning since I've seen several hosts do this.

I've been at several stays where "take one home" knick knacks were provided but I didn't take them. I had no need for the thing. If you're going to give guests free stuff, I encourage you give them something to use with friends.

Here are some good ideas:

1. Mugs

2. Bottle openers

3. T-Shirts

4. Playing cards

5. Coasters

All branded items.

Note: This tactic can be expensive. Make sure the numbers work out before doing it. I make custom things for my company and it adds up.

Increase the value of each guest through referral marketing

No-contact referral marketing doesn't have to be pushy or take much more time. It's worth it if you want to make more money per guest. (I know I do).

I believe if you:

1. Post for post on social media.

2. Giveaway coupons in moderation.

3. Give guests free stuff if the numbers work out.

You'll spend less money chasing the next guest and increase bookings through word-of-mouth.

That's all for today. I'll see you in the next article.