Communication Tips
Fast, friendly communication is the #1 driver of bookings and 5-star reviews. Master the 4 key messages.
Response Time = Booking Rate
A simple rule of thumb for guest confidence
Under 1 hour
Best
Fast response
1-4 hours
Good
Same-day response
4-24 hours
Risky
Guest may keep shopping
Over 24 hours
Weak
Likely lost demand
Key Insight: Guests often compare multiple options at once. Fast replies keep your listing in the conversation and reduce uncertainty before booking.
The 4 Essential Messages
Copy these templates and customize with your details
1. New Booking Request
⏰ Within 1 hour of booking
"Hi [Name]! Thanks for booking my cage for [Date/Time]. I'm excited to host you! The address is [Address]. Park in the driveway and I'll meet you there. Let me know if you have any questions!"
2. Day Before Reminder
⏰ 24 hours before session
"Hey [Name]! Quick reminder: your session is tomorrow at [Time]. Weather looks great. See you then!"
3. Guest Running Late
⏰ Immediate response
"No problem! Just a heads up - your session still ends at [Time] since I have another booking after. See you soon!"
4. After Session Thank You
⏰ Within 2 hours after checkout
"Thanks for renting my cage today! Hope you had a great session. I'd love a review if you have 30 seconds. Looking forward to hosting you again!"
Communication Do's & Don'ts
DO These Things
- ✅Respond within 1 hour (even just "Got it, will reply soon!")
- ✅Use their name in messages (builds rapport)
- ✅Send a reminder 24 hours before the session
- ✅Thank them after and ask for a review
- ✅Be friendly and enthusiastic (this is fun!)
- ✅Offer to answer questions before they arrive
DON'T Do These Things
- ❌Let messages sit for 4+ hours (kills bookings)
- ❌Be overly formal or robotic
- ❌Skip the post-session thank you
- ❌Over-communicate (one reminder is enough)
- ❌Send messages late at night (10pm+ cutoff)
- ❌Forget to respond to reviews
Pro Tips from Superhosts
1. Save Templates: Create saved replies in your phone for common questions. Significantly speeds up response time.
2. Set Expectations Early: In your first message, mention arrival instructions, parking, and what's included. Prevents most day-of questions.
3. End Every Message With an Action: "Let me know if you need anything!" or "See you at 3pm!" keeps communication clear and friendly.
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