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Direct Booking Success Podcast (Jenn Boyles)

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DateTitreDurée
02 Oct 2023Boost Your Bookings: Unleash Direct Booking Success at the 2023 Summit00:17:06

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of direct bookings for your short-term rental, despite your efforts to promote your accommodation, then you are not alone! Many hosts, property managers and owners in the hospitality industry are experiencing the same struggle, even after investing time and money into marketing campaigns and online listings. Instead of seeing a steady stream of direct bookings, they are faced with empty calendars and declining occupancy rates.

Don't get overwhelmed with all the information. Focus on the strategies that will make the biggest impact for your business right now. - Jenn Boyles

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Leapfrog your competitors with game-changing direct booking strategies from our Success Summit.
  • Participate in a unique online summit designed to empower hosts and property managers like you.
  • Engross yourself in illuminating presentations and build ties within a dedicated community on Facebook.
  • Master diverse domains from targeted marketing to the rise of remote work in today's business scenario.
  • Experience the perks of an all-access pass, and get an insider view of the generous sponsors propelling the summit.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:11 - The Only Free Online Summit

00:03:34 - How the Summit Works

00:08:17 - Managing Overwhelm

00:10:35 - Sponsor Highlights

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


19 Dec 2022The one thing to do from the 2022 Direct Booking Success Summit Speakers00:14:52

Do you want some tips to help increase your direct bookings?

In September 2022, I hosted the second Direct Booking Success Summit. It was three days of free online learning from the top experts in our short-term rental field. 

Today I'm bringing you a conversation I had with five of them as part of a special live session where they give you their one thing that you should do to increase your direct bookings. This episode features Damian Sheridan, Kelly Odor, Sarah Orchard, Jodi Bourne and Si Ranshaw. 

We talk about:

  • SMS marketing
  • Add a link to your website on everything you do
  • Be clever with your newsletter sign-ups
  • If you do have people on your email list, start emailing them
  • A picture says a thousand words, especially if it's of your bins and toilet plunger
  • Stop being generic and talk directly to your ideal guest

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Damian Sheridan - https://bookdirect.show/

Kelly Odor - https://www.booksterhq.com/ 

Sarah Orchard - https://get-fully-booked.com/ 

Jodi Bourne - https://jodibourne.com/ 

Si Ranshaw - https://www.siranshaw.com/ 



06 Mar 2023Be in it to win it with Paul Stevens00:42:34

Are you staying up-to-date with industry news?

Today we speak with Paul Stevens, editor Short Term Rentalz, part of the International Hospitality News network. He is also the host of The Shortyz Awards, a perfect way to get some recognition for all your hard work.

We talk about:

  • Providing world-wide coverage of news for our short-term rental sector of the Hospitality Industry
  • The isolation you could be feeling by working for yourself, by yourself and how being part of a community can help
  • The background of the Shortyz Awards
  • Getting a pat on the back for a job well done
  • You need to enter for a chance to win
  • The new venue for the 2023’s awards ceremony
  • How the awards are inclusive to everyone
  • Some of the categories to enter
  • What direct booking success summit

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


CONNECT WITH Paul Stevens

Website: https://shorttermrentalz.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shorttermrentalz/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-stevens-b75621146/?originalSubdomain=uk 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/STRentalz 

Email: paul@internationalhospitality.media

Top tips for submitting Shortyz entries here: https://shorttermrentalz.com/videos/top-tips-successful-shortyz-awards-entries/


ENTER HERE before 15th March 2023: https://theshortyz.com


09 Jan 2023Starting off the new year with five-star hospitality00:09:26

What does the word hospitality mean to you?

The market has been saturated over the past couple of years with more and more people getting into our short-term rental business.

The fact is that there's now more competition than ever. So how are you going to stand out?

We talk about:

  • I hear so many people getting into short-term rentals as a get-rich-quick strategy
  • Those who don't invest time and energy into hospitality in 2023 won't succeed
  • Take inspiration from the level of hospitality a five-star hotel provides
  •  Personal touches mean more to guests
  • Ideas on what you can do
  •  Create relationships with your guests
  • We want our guests to have a fabulous stay and return again and again

Please leave me a review wherever you listen to this podcast. I’d be so grateful!


Do you want to be a guest on a future episode? Apply here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/onething


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


12 Dec 2022It's not all about you with Concetta Cassidy00:23:08

Statistically, your ‘About’ page is the second most looked-at page on your website.

What distinguishes you from your competitors?

Today's guest is copywriter Concetta Cassidy, the owner of the Cheeky Pineapple, a copywriting studio that provides stress-free vacation rental marketing, for owners, hosts and property managers.

Singing and playing the piano from an early age taught Concetta how to resonate with an audience. When she began her journey as a vacation rental copywriter, she realised these skills came in handy. Finding the right combination of words is like hitting that sweet note in a song. It stops people in their tracks and makes them take notice.

Topics discussed:

  • The guest experience really resonated with me
  • Your story really needs to come through in your website copy
  • Guests feeling more connected to you can be the deciding factor for booking
  • Guests proactively seek out your ‘About’ page
  • Your ‘About’ page isn’t all about you
  • Guests need to know what you stand for and what your values are
  • What to include in your ‘About’ page
  • Show why you are the right choice for potential guests
  • Your story is a very strong business tool
  • Be consistent across all your marketing
  • What direct booking success means to Concetta


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles


CONNECT WITH Concetta Cassidy:

Website: https://www.thecheekypineapple.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecheekypineapple/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thecheekypineapple/


20 May 2024How to Market Your Rural vs Urban Vacation Rentals to Attract More Direct Bookings with Brianne Hamilton00:24:15

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the thought of keeping up with the regulations and legislation for short-term rentals, and you're worried about the impact it could have on your business, then you are not alone! The risk of waking up to a sudden shut down of your entire rental operation can be a real cause for concern, especially in the face of ever-changing regulations and laws. It's a lot to keep track of and it's a risk that many property managers are facing in today's market.

You have nothing to lose by putting together a website or, you know, leveraging the PM's to do it for you and just having that available access to get direct booking. - Brianne Hamilton


In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Mastering the Art of Transitioning to Short-Term Rentals in Ontario.
  • Maximizing Your Returns: Managing Urban vs Rural Vacation Properties.
  • Unveiling Proven Strategies for Increasing Direct Bookings.
  • Navigating the Impact of Regulations on Short-Term Rentals.
  • Elevating Your Marketing Game: Showcasing Amenities for Vacation Rentals.


My special guest for today's episode is Brianne Hamilton. Brianne Hamilton is  the co-owner of Junction House property management company in Ontario, Canada, brings a wealth of experience in transitioning from long-term to short-term rentals. With a portfolio spanning urban city centers and rural vacation properties, Brianne's insights into managing diverse rental types and locations provide invaluable strategies for increasing direct bookings and navigating the impact of regulations on short-term rentals. Her background in marketing and real estate investing infuses a creative and thoughtful approach to property management, ensuring a unique and optimized guest experience for each distinct property.


Connect with Brianne: 

https://www.instagram.com/junctionhousepm/

https://www.instagram.com/junctionhousegetaways/

Avail Brianne’s Complimentary Property Revenue and Occupancy Analysis to listeners: https://jhp.myflodesk.com/podcastfreebie


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction and Background

00:02:36 - Portfolio Expansion

00:08:45 - Operational Challenges

00:10:02 - Marketing Strategies

00:11:42 - Amenities and Guest Experiences

00:13:54 - Pros and Cons of Urban Market

00:14:57 - Rural Market Unique Opportunities

00:16:15 - Regulatory Concerns and Industry Impact

00:19:13 - Local Community Engagement

00:21:30 - Direct Booking Success and Freedom 


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub:

30 Sep 2024Unlocking STR Success Through Learning from Others00:12:22

Are you feeling like your short-term rental business has hit a plateau? You're not alone. Many property managers and hosts reach a point where they've exhausted their own knowledge and strategies. But what if the key to breaking through that ceiling isn't doing more of the same, but learning from those who've already conquered the challenges you're facing?

In this episode, we explore the immense value of tapping into collective wisdom within the short-term rental industry. I share my personal journey of transformation and how seeking insights from others revolutionized my approach to property management.

"The road to success is rarely a solo journey. It's paved with the lessons we learn from others, the insights we gain from their experiences, and the connections we make along the way." - Jenn Boyles


Here's what you'll discover in this value-packed discussion:

  • Avoid costly mistakes and accelerate your learning curve
  • Uncover innovative strategies for off-season bookings
  • Grain fresh perspectives on guest experience and marketing


Learn why events like summits and conferences are crucial for your business growth. We'll discuss:

  • The unparalleled value of expert-led sessions
  • Networking opportunities that lead to game-changing collaborations
  • Exposure to cutting-edge tools and tactics


Introducing the 2024 Direct Booking Success Summit


Get an exclusive preview of this year's summit, featuring:

  • A curated lineup of top-tier speakers
  • Interactive sessions for real-time feedback
  • Enhanced networking opportunities


Hear inspiring success stories from past attendees and learn how their summit experiences translated into tangible business results.


"I can hardly wait. Last year was so awesome. This year will be even better."


Don't miss this chance to invest in your future and accelerate your journey to direct booking success. Register now at dbssummit.com and prepare to transform your short-term rental business!


The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 Overcoming Plateaus in Short-Term Rental Business: The Power of Learning from Others

00:00:39 Introduction to the Direct Booking Success Podcast: Navigating the Hospitality Industry

00:01:02 The Importance of Continuous Learning in the Vacation Rental Industry

00:03:30 Harnessing Collective Wisdom: Learning from Industry Experts and Peers

00:05:45 Networking and Collaboration Opportunities at Industry Events

00:07:30 Maximizing ROI: The Long-Term Benefits of Attending Industry Summits

00:09:15 2024 Direct Booking Success Summit: What to Expect and How to Register

00:12:00 Closing Thoughts: Embracing Continuous Learning for Direct Booking Success


—----------------------------------------------------------------------


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Direct Booking Success 2024 registration is finally OPEN! 


GET YOUR FREE TICKET TODAY.


In this 3-day FREE online summit, you’ll learn how to stop relying on OTAs like Airbnb and make more money with more control. Learn how to increase your direct bookings from industry experts and your fellow property managers from all over the world. 


This summit is completely free and online. Save your spot today:

20 Feb 2023Joan and Sarah are on their way to direct booking success00:09:51

Curl up and listen while I tell you stories of two short-term owners who were looking for direct booking success?

Both were struggling in their businesses and life but were able to see a way to having the success they wanted. Direct booking success means different things to different people. What does it mean to you?

I talk about:

  • The challenges faced by vacation rental owners in achieving direct booking success 
  • The different ways success is measured
  • Benefits of getting it right for your own business
  • The importance of having your own marketing plan


Book your free 15 minute call

I’ll help you get the clarity on the three areas you need to focus on to progress your direct bookings. Book your free call here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/call


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


03 Oct 2022You don't have to do it all to still have Direct Booking Success00:11:28

Wow! I have just wrapped the second Direct Booking Success Summit! I really hope you were there. But just in case you missed it, today I'm going to chat about my own presentation which was – You don't have to do it all to still have direct booking success. I hope you enjoy it.

Topics discussed:

  • How you can still have direct booking success if you don't or can't do everything
  • What direct booking success means 
  • Aligning your brand
  • Building your online reputation
  • Tailoring a realistic plan for you and your needs
  • Increasing your visibility
  • Making it doable and follow your plan
  • Track, review and improve
  • Batching and scheduling
  • Cut the overwhelm
  • Direct Booking Success Group Programme

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/

27 Nov 2023From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Elevate Your Airbnb Guest Experience Through Upselling with Annie Sloan00:33:34

Discover the extraordinary journey of Annie Sloan, a CEO who transformed her own experience as a short-term rental host into an innovative software solution. As a young entrepreneur in California, Annie delved into the world of vacation rentals before platforms like Airbnb even existed. Her story takes an unexpected turn when she uncovers a recurring challenge faced by hosts and the untapped potential for additional revenue. Brace yourself for an eye-opening tale that will leave you eager to learn how Annie's game-changing platform revolutionizes the way hosts connect with vendors, offering guests unforgettable experiences. Get ready to unlock a world of possibilities with Annie Sloan's inspiring story.

Offering upsells in your short-term rental is not tacky, it's the way hotels do it. Upselling allows you to provide a higher level of hospitality and offer experiences that are outside of a guest's budget. - Annie Sloan

Annie Sloan is the CEO and co-founder of the Host Co, a software company specializing in helping short-term rental hosts optimize their listings and increase revenue. With a background in the hospitality industry, Annie has firsthand experience as a successful short-term rental host herself. Her journey began with renting out her apartment in San Francisco using Craigslist, and she later expanded her portfolio to include Airbnb rentals in the city. Annie's expertise in property management and her deep understanding of guest needs led her to identify a common challenge faced by hosts - upselling amenities and services. In response, she developed innovative software that allows hosts to easily offer upsells and add a new revenue stream to their listings. Through her work at the Host Co, Annie is dedicated to helping hosts maximize their guest experience and achieve direct booking success.

Connect with Annie:

https://www.instagram.com/thehostcompany/

https://www.thehost.co/

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Increase your direct bookings by implementing successful strategies.
  • Maximize your revenue through effective upselling of amenities and services.
  • Enhance the value of your vacation rental by adding personalized items and unique experiences.
  • Learn direct booking strategies that will help you attract more guests and boost your revenue.
  • Discover the secrets to a successful direct booking strategy that will set you apart from the competition.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:50 - Annie's Background

00:03:17 - The Host Co and its Origins

00:06:06 - Hospitality vs Upsells

00:08:16 - The Host Co's Online Shop

00:13:48 - The Power of Upsells

00:14:17 - Unique Upsell Ideas

00:15:48 - On-Site Sales and Additional Services

00:17:54 - Expansion to Europe and Partnerships

00:27:53 - Creating Sticky Marketing Messaging

00:28:35 - The Perceived Value of Discounts

00:29:27 - Adding Incremental Value on a Tight Budget

00:30:15 - The Significance of the First Direct Booking

00:31:27 - What Direct Booking Success means to Annie

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign...

29 May 2023Attracting Guests and Saving the Planet: The Benefits of Sustainable Vacation Rentals with Vanessa de Souza Lage00:42:41

Sustainability pioneer and vacation rental tech entrepreneur Vanessa de Souza Lage introduces the world's first sustainability badge for vacation rentals, offering a simple yet impactful way for property managers to reward eco-friendly practices and gain visibility in a growing market.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Grasp the crucial role sustainable tourism plays in vacation rentals and the preservation of natural resources.
  • Uncover powerful techniques to incorporate sustainable practices in managing your rental properties.
  • Familiarize yourself with the vital requirements to secure the Sustonica Badge.
  • Develop key communication skills to exhibit your commitment to sustainable efforts to your guests effectively.
  • Experience the advantages of sustainability: draw in more guests and reduce your carbon emissions simultaneously.

Vanessa de Souza Lage is a passionate advocate for sustainable tourism in the vacation rental industry. With nearly 20 years of experience, Vanessa has played a significant role in shaping the industry as an entrepreneur and tech innovator. She co-founded Rentals United, a successful channel manager, and has recently launched Sustonica, the first sustainability badge for vacation rentals. Vanessa's dedication to the environment and the industry has led her to create impactful solutions that benefit both property managers and the planet. Her friendly, approachable demeanor and wealth of knowledge make her an inspiring figure in the world of sustainable tourism.

Sustonica Website

Take the Free Test

Beat the Microbead App

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:08 - Vanessa's Background

00:09:21 - Sustonica's Origin

00:14:09 - Community Impact

00:17:08 - Sustainability vs. Hotels

00:17:52 - Sustainability in the Hotel Industry

00:19:05 - Simple Sustainability Wins

00:24:15 - Selling Sustainability to Homeowners

00:28:03 - The Growing Demand for Sustainability

00:32:16 - The Certification Process

00:34:58 - Sustainability in Vacation Rentals

00:35:30 - Criteria for Air Conditioning

00:37:41 - Marketing to Children

00:38:43 - Sustainability Chart

00:40:24 - What Direct Booking Success means to Vanessa

Find out more about Jenn Boyles

Follow Jenn Boyles on Instagram


Join the Marketing Hub for Hospitality Free Facebook Group


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023


24 Oct 2022You need two email lists to drive more direct bookings00:08:48

First off, don't panic from the title of this episode! You do need to be building two email lists, not just one. But don’t worry, not only am I gonna tell you why, but I'll also tell you a bit about how to actually do this. I will not leave you high and dry, believe me!

Topics discussed:

  • Previous guests are your fans or VIPs
  • Previous guests are your first email list
  • Who should be included in your second email list
  • Need to provide something of value in exchange for their email address
  • We need to be respectful of those who have given us their email addresses
  • Some ideas of what that download/lead magnet could be
  • How to get that lead magnet out
  • Whatever you produce, it is something that is perfect for your ideal guest
  • Having two lists will help you drive more direct bookings


Watch my FREE masterclass on how to nail your ideal guest:

https://directbookingsuccess.com/idealguest/


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles


Join me in my Free Marketing Hub Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals/

11 Jul 2022Marketing and your guest’s booking journey00:06:40

Today’s episode is all about using marketing to guide your guests on their booking journey.

The similarities between dating and marketing and creating a waffle-free strategy for your

guests to know, like, and trust you; allowing them to take action and book

direct with you.

Topics discussed

  • Marketing is just like dating
  • You can compete with the likes of Airbnb and the other OTA’s
  • Guests need to know, like, and trust you to then take action and book.
  • Stop wasting time posting waffle online
  • Being everywhere you can in order for potential guests to know you exist
  • How do guests know to book?


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/

Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). 

18 Dec 2023Tech Tools for Property Managers: Enhancing Operational Efficiency in Short-Term Rentals with Christianne Crump00:35:05

Do you want to enhance your property management efficiency and streamline your operations? Learn how to achieve improved operational effectiveness in property management with the solution I will be sharing. Elevate your property management efficiency and optimize your operations with the tools and strategies I will discuss with my guest Christianne Crump. Join us as we reveal the key tech tools and techniques for property managers in the short-term rental industry to maximize their operational efficiency.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Mastering Direct Booking: Unlock the secrets to increasing your vacation rental's direct bookings and boosting your revenue.
  • Tech Tools Unveiled: Discover the essential tech tools that can streamline your property management tasks and supercharge your efficiency.
  • Human Touch Messaging: Learn how to seamlessly incorporate the human touch into your guest messaging, creating meaningful and authentic interactions for a memorable guest experience.
  • Tech Solutions Unraveled: Navigate the world of property management tech solutions and find the perfect fit for your unique operational needs.
  • Demo Mastery: Uncover expert tips for acing your demos with tech companies, ensuring you make the most informed decisions for your property management business.


My special guest this week is Christianne Crump.

Christianne Crump, the founder and CEO of STR Hub, holds degrees in nursing and zoology, bringing a diverse range of expertise to the short-term rental industry. Her foray into property management was motivated by the pursuit of sustainable retirement income, leading her to effectively manage her own short-term rental properties. Drawing from this hands-on experience, she spearheaded the creation of STR Hub, a comprehensive platform that consolidates crucial information on industry solutions and resources. This initiative serves as a valuable tool for property managers seeking to efficiently identify the most suitable resources for their businesses. With a sharp focus on emerging tech trends, Christianne offers invaluable insights for property managers aiming to enhance operational efficiency and stay abreast of industry innovations.

Connect with Christianne:

FB - @the.strhub

Instagram - @TheSTRHub

Youtube - @TheSTRHUB

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianne-crump/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christianne.crump

Instagram: @christiannecrump

Sign up for your free copy to our Property Management Selection Workbook: https://strhub.com/long_form_review/airbnb-property-management-software-guide/


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction to the Short Term Rental Industry

00:02:54 - Transition to Self-Management of Short Term Rentals

00:08:12 - Creation of STR Hub

00:12:46 - Emerging Trends in Tech for Property Managers

00:16:01 - Essential Tech for Property Managers in Direct Booking Space

00:18:57 - AI in Property Management

00:21:51 - Adopting Tech for Business Enhancement

00:24:21 - Choosing the Right Property Management Software

00:28:35 - Property Management Selection Workbook

00:31:09 - What Direct Booking Success means to Christianne


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2024: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free...

13 Oct 2024How to Use Market Data to Win More Direct Bookings with Mridul Bansal of PriceLabs00:26:36

Are you dreaming of more direct bookings but still relying heavily on online travel agencies? It's time to harness the power of market data to take control of your short-term rental business. In this episode, we explore how to use this valuable information to your advantage and transition more bookings to your own platform.

Join me as I sit down with Mridul Bansal, Product Marketing Manager at PriceLabs, to uncover the secrets of using market data to your advantage. We'll dive deep into:

  • What market data really means for short-term rentals
  • Key components of market data you should be tracking
  • How to analyze this data effectively
  • Strategies to leverage market insights for more direct bookings

You can't just be charging more. You also have to make more from each booking. -Mridul Bansal

About Mridul Bansal

Mridul Bansal is a dedicated advocate for the vacation rental industry, currently serving as a Product Marketing Manager at PriceLabs. His focus is on empowering hosts and property owners by delivering tools and insights that help them succeed. Mridul leads weekly mastermind sessions, fostering a collaborative space where hosts can support one another and work towards achieving their goals. At PriceLabs, he plays a crucial role in ensuring customer feedback shapes product improvements, training, and ongoing support, ensuring the company continually evolves to meet the needs of its users.

Connect with Mridul and PriceLabs: 

Website: https://hello.pricelabs.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pricelabs

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pricelabs

Mridul’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bansal-mridul/

Don't miss out on a special offer exclusively for our listeners - a free webinar with a PriceLabs expert to dive even deeper into practical revenue management strategies. Sign up here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/5617283976405/WN_vL8svoJCSwKjaLFqf7UPLQ#/registration

The key moments in this episode are:

  • Understand the importance of dynamic pricing across all your booking platforms
  • Learn how to use market data to optimize your pricing strategy
  • Discover techniques to make your direct booking site more attractive than OTAs
  • Get insights on adjusting your minimum stay requirements based on market trends

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Missed the Direct Booking Success Summit 2024? Don’t worry!

You can still access all the invaluable insights and strategies with the All-Access Pass for just $219!

Here’s what you’ll unlock:

Lifetime Access to All Sessions – Watch or rewatch every powerful session at your convenience.

Exclusive Bonus Content – Get behind-the-scenes interviews, bonus workshops, and expert-led training you won’t find anywhere else.

Downloadable Workbooks & Checklists – Start applying actionable strategies right away with tools designed to help you grow.

VIP Q&A

16 Oct 2023Mastering Airbnb and Embracing Contingency Plans with Zach Busekrus00:48:09

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by relying solely on Airbnb for bookings, constantly competing for visibility and struggling to maintain consistent occupancy rates, then you are not alone! Despite your efforts to optimize listings and offer competitive prices, you may still be facing the risk of cancellations and unpredictable demand. Instead of the desired result of a steady stream of bookings, you might be experiencing periods of low occupancy and financial uncertainty.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Learn how to embrace the rise of the digital nomad lifestyle to attract more guests and boost your short-term rental revenue.
  • Discover the secrets to finding incredible deals on short-term rentals by tapping into the power of flexibility and open calendars.
  • Understand the crucial role of reviews in building trust between hosts and guests, and learn how to leverage them to attract more bookings.
  • Explore the personalized offerings of the Spontaneous newsletter service and find out how it can help you stand out in the competitive short-term rental industry.
  • Gain insights into the role of Airbnb in the short-term rental industry and learn why diversification and contingency plans are essential for your business's success.

My special guest this week is Zach Busekrus. Zach is the founder of Spontaneous, a newsletter that focuses on finding discounted stays on Airbnb. With a background in growth marketing and a decade of experience in the higher education industry, Zach brings a wealth of expertise to the short-term rental industry. During the pandemic, Zach and his wife decided to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle, breaking their lease and embarking on a year and a half of travel. Throughout their journey, they exclusively stayed in Airbnb rentals, discovering the value of flexibility and last-minute deals. Their positive experiences as guests, backed by numerous glowing reviews, led Zach to start Spontaneous, offering subscribers curated deals on Airbnb stays. With his unique perspective as both a traveler and a marketer, Zach provides valuable insights into the world of Airbnb and the opportunities it presents for hosts and guests alike.

If we could be flexible with where we went and how long we stayed, we could score incredible deals on Airbnb. - Zach Busekrus

Zach’s Website: https://www.sponstayneous.com/

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:03:04 - Zach's Background in Growth Marketing

00:04:35 - Transition to Digital Nomad Life

00:07:14 - The Boom of Remote Work and Short-Term Rentals

00:09:45 - Importance of Airbnb Reviews

00:14:57 - The Power of Podcasting in Building a Network

00:15:48 - Addressing the Spontaneous App and Airbnb

00:18:12 - Airbnb's Impact on the Perception of Vacation Rentals

00:19:44 - Recognizing the Influence of Airbnb's Brand

00:30:04 - Direct Bookings vs. OTAs

00:31:35 - Importance of Direct Bookings

00:35:49 - Seeking Help and Solutions

00:37:07 - Tech Stack for Direct Bookings

00:44:10 - Canada's Short Term Rentals

00:44:35 - Direct Booking Success

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine:

14 Aug 2023Data-Driven Strategies for Vacation Rental Growth: Insights from Thibault Masson00:41:48

Imagine stumbling upon a picturesque French island in the Caribbean, only for it to unexpectedly ignite a passion for data-driven decision-making. Thibault Masson's journey from a spontaneous villa shopping spree to becoming a successful vacation rental manager will leave you awe-inspired. But hold on tight, because there's an unexpected twist awaiting him on an exotic black sand beach in Bali. Find out how Thibault's determination and understanding of market trends led him to triumph over challenges and thrive in the ever-evolving world of vacation rentals.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Uncover the pivotal role of data in decoding market trends for strategic decision-making.
  • Identify the essentials of grasping local culture and market dynamics for operational success in vacation rental management.
  • Realize how to cultivate trust with property managers while putting staff welfare at the forefront.
  • Discover the power of leveraging social media in marketing villas and establishing authenticity.
  • Grasp the implications of the growing supply in the vacation rental industry and strategies to maneuver intense competition.

Know your market and cater to their needs. Understand who your guests are and create a memorable experience for them. Position your vacation rental as a place to create lifelong memories for special occasions. - Thibault Masson

Meet my guest: Thibault Masson.

Thibault is both a vacation rental property manager and a vacation rental technology marketer. He has launched and managed villas and apartments in Paris, Bali, and St. Barths. He's the founder of Rental Scale-Up, a short-term rental news, analysis, and consulting business that was recently acquired by vacation rental dynamic pricing tool provider PriceLabs, where he continues on as the Head of Product Marketing. He has previously worked for international online travel agencies, such as ebookers and Booking.com. 


Connect with Thibault:

https://www.rentalscaleup.com/

https://pricelabs.co/

Maison Domingue, St Barths: https://www.saintbarth.com/domingue/

BelAmour, St Barths: https://www.saintbarth.com/belamour/

Bulung Daya, Bali: https://www.realbali.com/bulungdaya/


Sign up to Rental Scale-Up’s free weekly industry newsletter here: https://www.rentalscaleup.com/newsletter/


The key moments in this episode are:

00:01:26 - Thibault's Introduction to the Hospitality Industry

00:07:39 - Understanding the Market and Guest Expectations

00:10:01 - Challenges of Remote Hosting

00:11:36 - Building Direct Bookings and Industry Insights

00:13:38 - Importance of Understanding the Local Market and Culture

00:14:05 - Balancing Life Between Two Homes

00:14:49 - Challenges of Owning a Property Abroad,

00:15:42 - Keeping the Team Together During the Pandemic

00:16:30 - Marketing Strategy for Two Villas

00:27:32 - The Importance of Strategy and Market Data

00:28:15 - Joining Price Labs and Rental Scale Up

00:29:38 - The Value of Short-Term Rental Data

00:33:56 - The Impact of Increased Supply and Direct Bookings

00:37:36 - The Rental Scale Up Newsletter 


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


Show notes

24 Jun 2024Avoid Bad Guests: Trust Marketing for Vacation Rentals with Leo Walton00:24:52

Does this sound familiar? 

You've been told to rely on Airbnb reviews to trust your short term rental guests, but still end up with stained sheets and broken furniture. The frustration of not knowing who's booking on your website is real. But what if there's a better way to know your guest and build trust from the start? Let's uncover the effective trust marketing strategies and guest verification secrets for property managers. 

Say goodbye to guest damage and hello to enhanced guest experience through local partnerships. Get ready to level up your direct bookings and guest satisfaction.

The name of the game is to run your business most efficiently and most effectively. So I think one of the things that investing heavily in trust can do is it can help you professionalize to the point where you can actually get more value out of a listing and what is in. - Leo Walton


My special guest is Leo Walton


In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Implement trust marketing strategies to boost direct bookings and guest satisfaction.
  • Ensure guest verification in short term rentals for a secure and positive experience.
  • Learn how to prevent guest damage in vacation rentals and maintain property integrity.
  • Build guest trust as a property manager to foster long-term guest relationships.
  • Utilize local partnerships to elevate guest experience and stand out in the market.


Leo Walton, the co-founder and vp of growth for Superhog, is a seasoned professional with a background in hospitality and a strong customer-centric approach. His journey from the early days of the tech-enabled home sharing space to co-founding Superhog has equipped him with invaluable insights into trust marketing strategies, guest verification, and risk management in the short-term rental industry. Leo's passion for creating a seamless, trustworthy experience for both hosts and guests shines through in his work, making him a trusted expert in the field. With a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the industry, Leo offers practical and effective solutions for property managers seeking to elevate their guest experiences and drive direct bookings through local partnerships and trust-based marketing strategies.


Connect with Leo:

Website: https://superhog.com/

** Take advantage of the FREE Screening of your STR Business for 60 days **

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-walton-aa59bb25/


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Misconceptions about Direct Bookings

00:01:01 - Introduction to Trust Marketing

00:02:39 - Importance of Trust Building

00:05:56 - Leveraging OTAs as a Marketing Channel

00:08:23 - Building Trust from Pre-Arrival to Post-Stay

00:12:05 - Importance of Trust in Short-Term Rental Business

00:13:51 - Maximizing Revenue and Repeat Bookings

00:16:45 - Challenges Faced by Property Managers

00:18:52 - Establishing a Brand and Local Networking

00:21:29 - The Story Behind "Superhog" and Guest Misadventures

00:23:48 - How to Engage with the Podcast

00:24:30 - Conclusion and Next Steps

00:23:48 - Importance of Listener Feedback

00:23:48 - Teaser for Next Episode


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at:

15 Aug 2022Bringing in the guest experience with Jodi Bourne00:29:25

Welcome to episode 8, in this episode I speak with my good friend and fifth-generation Texan, Jodi Bourne (no relation to Jason!). We delve into Jodi’s specialisations in the rental industry plus a quick peek into what Jodi will be delivering in the Direct Booking Success Summit in September.

Jodi helps busy and frustrated hosts build a badass vacation rental business that WOWS their guests and increases direct bookings. 

She works with vacation rental, glamping, and boutique property management companies to build rewarding and successful hospitality businesses, create curated guest experiences and market their properties off of online travel agent sites like Airbnb and VRBO. 

Plus Jodi’s an advocate for industry-wide professionalism, sustainable tourism and booking direct.

Topics discussed:

  • What made Jodi want to specialise in vacation rentals
  • When the guest experience starts
  • Building professionalism at the Vacation Rental Business School
  • The secret sauce of being successful on social media
  • Keeping away from shiny object syndrome and concentrate on what works for you
  • Authenticity in your marketing
  • What direct booking success means to Jodi



CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles


CONNECT WITH Jodi Bourne:

Website: https://jodibourne.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeyJodiBourne

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyjodibourne

Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodibourne/


Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). Get on the waitlist – https://www.directbookingsuccesssummit.com


08 Apr 2024Behind the Scenes: A Peek Inside a 100-Property Vacation Rental Company with Brian Olson00:25:28

Ever wondered how a laundry facility transformed a vacation rental business into a booming success? Brian Olson, president of Northwest Vacation Rental Professional association, spills the beans on the unexpected strategy that took his business to new heights. And what's this about a cookie program that led to 30 new homes? 

Find out how these unique tactics are redefining direct booking success and the juicy details on the upcoming conference that's causing a stir in the industry in this episode.

It's really about control. There are customers there. I correct my family who say, 'oh, we're going to stay in our Airbnb.' No, you're not. You're going to stay in a vacation rental. Who you happen to book through everything. It's like you fly a plane that Delta flies. You know, it's not a Delta, Airbnb has become the Kleenex of our generation. - Brian Olson

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Maximize direct bookings with proven strategies for vacation rentals.
  • Unlock the secrets to building a thriving vacation rental business.
  • Elevate your vacation rental business through community involvement.
  • Seamlessly transition from OTA reliance to boosting direct bookings.
  • Gain exclusive insights by attending industry conferences for vacation rentals.

My special guest is Brian Olson

Brian Olson, a partner at Beachcomber Vacation Homes in Oregon, and the current president of the Northwest Vacation Rental Professional Association, boasts over 17 years of experience in the vacation rental industry. With a background rooted in hospitality and a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of vacation rentals, Brian offers valuable insights into direct booking strategies, community involvement, and business growth. His substantial growth from managing a single property to overseeing a portfolio of 100 homes showcases his practical knowledge and success in the field, positioning him as an essential resource for vacation rental business owners and managers looking to enhance their direct booking strategies and achieve business success.

Join us for North West Vacation Rental Professionals Annual Conference on April 29 and 30 in Boise, Idaho, USA for a fun event filled with opportunities for vacation rental professionals, rent-by-owners, hospitality staff and affiliate businesses. 

Save your seat and don’t forget to use code SPRING2024 to avail a huge discount for this amazing event.

For more information, check their website: https://www.nwvrp.org/attend-the-2024-conference

Brian’s website: www.beachcombervacationhomes.com

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction and Background in Hospitality

00:03:16 - Evolution of the Vacation Rental Industry

00:07:49 - Transition to Direct Bookings

00:08:24 - Community Engagement and Business Influence

00:12:59 - NWVRP Conference and Future Plans

00:14:01 - Importance of Networking and Education at Conferences

00:15:27 - Learning from Industry Insights and Best Practices

00:17:44 - Building Relationships through Unique Initiatives

00:21:08 - Direct Booking Success and Customer Loyalty

00:22:53 - Invitation to Conference and Special Discount 

FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at:

01 Aug 2022How to get the most out of the Direct Booking Success Summit00:08:53

Think about a goal you would like to achieve in your business …. but you only had 24hrs to do it. Do you think you could achieve it? Or would you be completely overwhelmed? 

This week, not only do I tell you about the rest of the amazing speakers at this year's Direct Booking Success Summit but I also give you a few tips on how to get the most out of the summit for you and your business.

Topics discussed

  • Introducing the second half of the Direct Booking Success Summit Speakers
  • How not to get overwhelmed at the summit
  • You're the one person who knows your business inside and out, think at what you want to learn about right now
  • Focus on the topics that will help you now
  • I want you to take action from what you learn at the summit
  • The All-access Pass will give you ongoing access to all the presentations
  • The VIP All-access Pass will give you even more to help you achieve more direct bookings

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/


Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). 


Direct Booking Success Summit Speakers mentioned in this episode:

Elaine Watt – https://stayworcestershire.co.uk

Sarah Orchard – https://get-fully-booked.com

Yvonne Halling – https://www.bedandbreakfastcoach.com

Neely Khan – https://neelythere.co.uk

Bob Gardner – https://www.casaldeifichi.com

Louise Brace  – https://rentaltonic.com

Damian Sheridan – https://bookdirect.show

And me… Jenn Boyles – https://directbookingsuccess.com

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/

Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). 

16 Jan 2023What Hospitality is with the 2022 Direct Booking Success Summit Speakers00:26:04

In September 2022, I hosted the second Direct Booking Success Summit, a three-day online summit for hosts, owners and managers in short-term rentals. It was packed with learning from top experts in the field, and today's episode is a recording of a live session I hosted with three of those experts about what hospitality is. They're all so knowledgeable and inspiring, I just had to share the conversation with you. 

In this episode, you'll get to hear from Di, Bob, and Tyann. Di runs a business called Wild Harvest that offers group-exclusive teepee rentals and activities in North Yorkshire, UK. Bob is the founder of Green VR events and runs a sustainable holiday department in Italy, as well as a new platform called Enviro Rental. Tyann is the Queen of Guest Experience for Touch Stay Digital Guidebooks and owns two property management companies in the USA. I hope you enjoy the episode!

We talk about:

  • Hospitality is about welcoming people into your space and making them feel comfortable
  • A good host aims to over-deliver and prioritise the guest's experience
  • Hospitality involves getting to know guests and finding out what they need and want
  • It is important to be flexible and easygoing as a host
  • Hospitality can be learned, even if it doesn't come naturally
  • It is possible to provide hospitality remotely
  • Hospitality involves going above and beyond for guests, even in difficult situations
  • Hospitality is a significant factor in the success of a business, such as a glamping or events company
  • Hosting guests can be enjoyable and rewarding
  • Providing high-quality hospitality can lead to a positive reputation and repeat business


Do you want to be a guest on a future episode? Apply here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/onething


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Direct Booking Success Summit:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


CONNECT WITH Bob Gardner:

Website: https://www.casaldeifichi.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-garner-%E2%93%A5%F0%9F%8C%B3-75a73727/


CONNECT WITH Di Hammill:

Website: https://www.wildharvest.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetipifolk

Instagram:

18 Sep 2023From View Count to Bookings: Proven Strategies for Successful Advertising in the Short-Term Rental Sector with Mike Denman00:40:09

Are you ready to take your short-term rental business to the next level? Join Mike Denman as he reveals the secrets of strategic advertising and market research that will skyrocket your bookings and profitability. But be warned, the stakes are high, and the game is just beginning. Will Mike's playbook be enough to overcome the challenges and leave you wanting more? Tune in now and find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover the crucial role that digital marketing plays in boosting short-term rentals.
  • Unearth effective advertising and market research tactics, hidden from sight, crucial for your business.
  • Understand the hidden connections between view count, click-through rates, and occupancy in your business.
  • Learn the secrets to budgeting and coordinating daily expenses for Facebook and Instagram ads.
  • Grasp the significant impact of building an online presence and mastering retargeting strategies, a game changer for your business. List 2:

Introducing Mike Denman, a diverse professional who carved a niche for himself in the world of advertising and real estate. Straddling the line between filmmaker and digital marketer, Mike navigated the complex waters of these industries with ease and precision. His journey from working for Warner Brothers to becoming a successful real estate investor is inspiring. Mike's methodologies are a testament to his belief in the power of testing and data-derived results. His ability to turn properties into profitable ventures using digital marketing strategies is impressive.

Connect with Mike: 

https://www.stradvertising.com/

Https://linktr.ee/mikedenman 

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:17 - Mike's Background

00:03:17 - Testing Advertising for Short Term Rentals

00:05:20 - The Power of Digital Marketing for Real Estate

00:08:30 - Getting Started with Digital Marketing

00:11:29 - Understanding the Correlation between View Count and Occupancy

00:12:43 - The Numbers Game of Advertising

00:14:52 - Maximizing the Impact of Ads

00:17:15 - Leveraging Facebook Pixel for Remarketing

00:23:26 - Understanding the Cost of Running Ads

00:24:15 - Importance of Treating Vacation Rentals as a Business

00:25:16 - Direct Booking Success Summit and Breaking Barriers

00:26:24 - Basics of Running a Digital Marketing Campaign

00:27:56 - Mentoring and Helping Property Owners Find the Right Path

00:35:49 - The Host vs Guest Dilemma

00:36:26 - The Myth of Passive Income

00:37:02 - Leveraging Technology in the Industry

00:37:49 - Balancing Work and Leisure

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass


23 Oct 2023Win Over Guests and Boost Bookings: The Art of Building Trust in Vacation Rentals00:15:49

Have you ever had a guest reach out to book directly with you, completely out of the blue? That's exactly what happened to Jenn Boyles, the host of the Direct Booking Success Podcast. Little did she know, this unexpected encounter would change the course of her vacation rental business forever. In a saturated market, Jenn discovered the key to increasing direct bookings and building trust with guests. But how did she do it? Stay tuned to find out the surprising twist that led Jenn to achieve an incredible 80% direct bookings, and learn the actionable steps you can take to do the same.

Prove you can be trusted. Be upfront about what you offer and answer any questions before they are even asked. - Jenn Boyles

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Unlock the secrets to direct booking success with insider tips from industry experts.
  • Increase your direct bookings and boost your revenue with proven strategies.
  • Build trust with your guests and create a memorable vacation experience.
  • Learn how proactive communication can enhance guest trust and satisfaction.
  • Discover the power of authenticity and transparency in attracting and retaining guests.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:02 - The Importance of Trust

00:03:26 - Don't Panic

00:07:13 - Show Your Face

00:08:41 - Prove That You Can Be Trusted 

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclasswaitlist


25 Sep 2023Turn Your Website into a Direct Booking Magnet: Expert Tips from Sarah Orchard00:29:07

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of direct bookings for your short-term rental, despite your efforts to increase them through website optimization, then you are not alone! 

Many owners and managers may be tirelessly optimizing their websites, using eye-catching photos, engaging descriptions, and even implementing SEO strategies, only to find that they are still heavily reliant on booking agents. Instead of seeing a surge in direct bookings, they may be experiencing a constant stream of inquiries from third-party platforms, leading to increased fees and reduced control over their own business.

My guest this week is Sarah Orchard.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Find out why optimizing your website is key to ramping up direct bookings.
  • Get insights on personalizing website content to entice your target guests.
  • Grasp how a well-curated About page can foster trust and enhance relationships with your prospects.
  • Get your hands on tried-and-true tactics for augmenting reservations on your website.
  • Learn about the economic benefits of directing your focus on direct bookings.

Meet Sarah Orchard, the dynamic force behind The Hudnalls Hideout, a luxury treehouse located in the UK's beautiful Wye Valley and a much-sought-after vacation spot. Armed with a deep understanding of the short-term rental market, Sarah has led her venture to dizzying heights of popularity. She has also conceptualized and created Get Fully Booked offering  invaluable marketing training to hosts, bringing them closer to their direct booking goals.

Connect with Sarah:

https://hudnallshideout.co.uk

https://get-fully-booked.com/ 

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction to the Direct Booking Success Podcast

00:03:27 - Building a Website on a Limited Budget

00:07:02 - Attracting the Right Guests with Website Content

00:10:17 - Building Trust and Connection Through Website Design

00:13:47 - Troubleshooting: No Bookings on the Website

00:14:58 - The Importance of Website Content Messaging

00:16:03 - Mobile Optimization and User Experience

00:17:41 - Creating a Captivating First Impression

00:20:12 - Essential Elements for a Direct Booking Magnet

00:21:19 - Direct Booking Success and Commission Savings


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass


21 Nov 2022The two must-haves to drive your direct bookings00:10:19

Are you ready for direct bookings? Or need to inject some adrenaline into what you’re been doing up-to-now?

Today I'm speaking about the two must-haves you need to drive your direct bookings along with a bunch of tips to get you going.

Topics discussed:

  • How to get your ideal guest's attention
  • Encouraging people to know, like and trust you
  • Be consistent in all your marketing
  • Make it manageable for yourself and your life
  • You need a place that you own online
  • Craft a website that guides your ideal guest through to booking a stay
  • What to include on your homepage
  • People buy from people, so get more of ‘you’ on there
  • Don’t make it hard for guests to book online
  • Look at the big picture
  • How to get it done
  • Send me a DM on Instagram

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles


02 Dec 2024Mastering STR Customer Service and First Impressions with Rachael Butler00:25:43

Are you ready to elevate your guests' experience without breaking the bank? In this episode, we explore the art of creating unforgettable stays through thoughtful personal touches and exceptional customer service.

Join me as I chat with Rachel Butler, owner of the Angel Caves bed and breakfast in Gran Canaria. Rachel shares her journey from bustling London to the serene mountains, where she's mastered the art of hospitality.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

  • The power of first impressions and how to nail them, even if you're not on-site
  • Simple, cost-effective ways to make guests feel like VIPs
  • Strategies for setting clear expectations and exceeding them
  • How to handle unexpected issues while maintaining excellent customer service

Plus, get Rachel's expert tips on:

  • Crafting a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't require a hefty investment
  • Communicating effectively to build guest loyalty
  • Balancing personal touches with essential amenities

“You’ve got to be so empathetic to what they’re going through that you understand you.” - Rachael Butler

About Rachael Butler

Rachael Butler is the visionary owner and host of Angel Caves Farmstay & Retreats. Nestled in the breathtaking mountains of Gran Canaria, Rachael is a busy mum of two who, alongside her husband, is lovingly renovating a unique cave house. Angel Caves isn't just a bed and breakfast—it's a sanctuary where Rachael combines her deep roots as a former London-based therapist with her passion for creating transformative women’s retreats.

With years of experience in therapy, Rachael brings a special touch to hospitality, crafting unforgettable guest experiences that go beyond comfort. Her keen understanding of human connection ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories and a sense of renewal.

Connect with Rachael:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourangelcaves

Website: www.angelcaves.online

Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you create lasting loyalty and rave reviews.

Ready to take your hosting to the next level? Don't miss Rachel's special offer for podcast listeners – a 50% discount on her business audit service, designed to boost your bookings and enhance your guest experience.

Join us to learn how small, thoughtful gestures can make a big impact on your short-term rental success!


The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 Elevating Guest Experiences: First Impressions and Budget-Friendly Touches

00:00:53 From London to Gran Canaria: Rachel Butler's Journey to Hospitality

00:04:20 Building a Successful B&B: The Angel Caves Story

00:06:04 The Power of First Impressions in Hospitality

00:09:04 Building Trust and Meeting Guest Expectations

00:12:14 Adding Value with Personal Touches on a Budget

00:15:07 Balancing Basic Service with Extra Touches

00:18:25 Handling Guest Issues and Providing Excellent Customer Service

00:22:26 Offering Business Audits for Short-Term Rental Hosts

—------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


🚨 EXCLUSIVE FREE MASTERCLASS WITH JENN BOYLES 🚨

Streamline Your Marketing for 2025 and Drive More Direct Bookings

Powered by Book Direct Pro for effortless direct bookings.


🗓 Thursday, December 12th, 2024

🕚 11 AM PST | 2 PM EST | 7 PM...

08 Jul 2024Ditch the Facebook Group for Advice on the Right Property Management Software with John Stokinger00:28:37

Are you frustrated by the endless opinions on property management software for Airbnb hosts? Still struggling to find the right fit for your short-term rental business? You're not alone. The quest for the perfect solution can be overwhelming, leaving you confused and without a clear path forward.

It's time to break free from unhelpful advice and take a strategic approach to finding software that truly meets your needs. The key isn't blindly following the crowd, but asking the right questions and understanding your unique business requirements.

Navigating property management software options doesn't have to be daunting. By focusing on your specific needs and goals, you can cut through the noise and find a solution that works for you.

“Ask yourself some questions before you start asking questions. Write them down. These are the types of things that you should have.” - John Stokinger


In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover the game-changing features to look for when selecting property management software for Airbnb.
  • Learn the proven strategies for expanding and growing your short-term rental business.
  • Unveil the secrets to successfully driving direct bookings for your vacation rentals.
  • Master the art of seamlessly integrating payment processors with your rental software for a hassle-free experience.
  • Explore effective website solutions that can streamline operations and enhance your property management efforts.


My special guest for this episode is John Stokinger.

John Stokinger brings a wealth of experience to the table as the Direct Booking Successor of sales for Direct Booking Success. With a background in digital marketing and senior solution consulting, he has a unique perspective on the vacation rental industry. Having worked with various companies in the technology and vendor side of the industry, John's insights and expertise provide valuable input on topics such as choosing the right property management software, scaling short-term rental businesses, and integrating payment processors with rental software. His engaging and candid approach makes him an excellent guest to gain practical knowledge and informed decision-making strategies for property managers and hosts looking for software solutions.


Connect with John and Direct: directsoftware.com

**SPECIAL OFFER** Mention the podcast and Direct will waive the website build cost! Offer valid until July 22, 2024.


The key moments in this episode are:

00:05:30 The Frustration with General Software Questions

00:06:57 Qualifying Questions for Selecting Property Management Software

00:09:41 The Cost Consideration in Choosing Software

00:11:18 Exploring Ancillary Solutions for Property Management

00:12:45 Importance of Demoing Multiple Property Management Solutions

00:14:13 Adapting Software Solutions for Growth

00:16:26 Innovations in Software Development

00:18:33 The Challenges of Moving to Book Direct

00:21:55 Key Questions for Short Term Rental Business Software

00:24:47 Customer Service is Key

00:26:20 Direct's Cost-Effective Website Solution

00:26:43 Special Offer from Direct


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram:

05 Aug 2024Why a Defined Niche for your STR will Generate more Bookings with Nihal Salah00:27:25

Are you tired of feeling like just another face in the crowd, struggling to make your vacation rental stand out? It's time to break free from the generic approach and embrace a strategy that resonates with your ideal guests. Imagine the power of connecting with travelers who share your passions, who truly appreciate the unique experience you offer. This is the transformative potential of targeted marketing, and it's closer than you think.

In this insightful episode, we dive deep into the art of niching down and understanding your perfect guest. Our host, Jen Boyles, is joined by Nihal Salah, a seasoned B2B marketing expert with a passion for travel and adventure. Together, they unravel the secrets to defining your niche, connecting with your target audience, and delivering a personalized, memorable guest experience that keeps them coming back for more.

Don't be thinking that this is narrowing your field. It's actually opening it up and making you more revenue and having more control over who is coming to stay. Better reviews, more returned guests. - Nihal Salah

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Identify your unique selling proposition and how to communicate it effectively.
  • Get tips on creating content that immerses viewers in the local experiences and amenities they crave.
  • Hear from industry expert Nihal Salah, a marketing veteran with a passion for travel and adventure.
  • Understand the benefits of direct bookings for building lasting guest relationships and business control.
  • Learn strategies to elevate the guest experience through personalized touches that delight your niche audience.

About Nihal Salah

Nihal Salah, an STR customer educational specialist at Yapstone, brings a wealth of experience in B2B marketing from various industries. With a passion for travel and adventure, Nihal's extensive knowledge and dedication aim to assist short term rental property managers and owners in driving revenue through educational content. Having personally experienced the intricacies of short term vacation rentals during her extensive travels, Nihal offers unique insights into the importance of finding a niche, defining ideal guests, and the transformative power of targeted marketing. Her background in serving diverse industries and her passion for customer education make her a valuable resource for property managers seeking to enhance their direct booking success.

Connect with Nihal Salah & Yapstone:

Nihal’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nihalsalah/

Yapstone’s Website: www.yapstone.com

Yapstone’s Payment Processing Software (UK): www.holidayrentpayment.com

Yapstone’s Payment Processing Software (US):www.vacationrentpayment.com

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 The Importance of Defining Your Niche

00:02:20 Guest's Background and Passion for Travel

00:04:44 Standing Out in Niches for Ideal Guests

00:06:37 Overcoming Fear of Niche Marketing

00:06:53 Creating a Personalized Guest Experience

00:10:38 Influence of Personal Interests on Niche Selection

00:11:42 Utilizing Personal Interests for Niche Attraction

00:14:03 Effective Strategies for Targeting Ideal Guests

00:17:17 Creating Memorable Guest Experiences

00:18:48 Personalized Guest Experience Enhancements

00:20:46 Industry-Specific Payment Processors

00:25:06 Niche Marketing Opportunities

FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb:

31 Jul 2023Supercharge Your Hospitality Business: Discover Expert Insights at the Free Direct Booking Success Summit00:12:07

Join me, Jen Boyles, on the Direct Booking Success Podcast as I share two big updates. From my personal journey of moving back to Canada to the launch of the 3rd Direct Booking Success Summit - the only free online event for vacation and short-term rental property managers and owners.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Uncover the art of successful online participation in the exclusive Direct Booking Success Summit formulated for property owners and managers.
  • Feel the personal resonance while traversing through a dramatic shift from the regal charm of the UK to the diverse charms of Canada.
  • Understand proven techniques to generate captivating content timely, harness AI power, and use video as a tool to magnify your brand spectrum.
  • Explore the untapped potential of crafting a customer-first approach, scaling property management operations, and cultivating a ever-loyal guest following.
  • Discover the joy of engaging and learning from a community of seasoned property managers and owners, fostering professional growth and camaraderie. List 3:

Having a community of others going through the same things is so important. And that's where the Direct Booking Success Summit can help. - Jenn Boyles

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - The first big announcement

00:02:47 - Direct Booking Success Summit

00:06:31 - Marketing Topics

00:07:32 - Hospitality Topics

00:09:58 - What you need to do next

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass


06 Nov 2023Ditching the Myth: Direct Bookings Are for Everyone, Including First-Time Guests!00:12:07

Are direct bookings only for returning guests? In this episode of the Direct Booking Success podcast, I debunk the myth and reveal the secrets to attracting new guests to your short-term rental property. But what happens when your pool of potential guests starts to shrink?

In this episode I dive into the world of direct booking strategies for your short-term rental properties. With my own experience transitioning from relying on online travel agents to focusing on direct bookings, I know the value of targeting both returning and new guests. I debunk the misconception that direct bookings are only for returning guests and emphasize the importance of continually growing your pool of potential guests. 

I share tips on attracting new guests through lead magnets or freebies, using a call to action to encourage bookings, and building trust with potential guests. By implementing these strategies, you can increase your direct booking success and reduce dependence on online travel agents. So grab your favorite drink, sit back, and get ready to discover the keys to maximizing your direct bookings.

Having new guests is how you can grow that pool of guests who will book with you. And yes, the online travel agents will bring you some first time guests, but it's up to you to make sure that they are the right fit for your property and business so they will come back again. - Jenn Boyles

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Boost your bookings by implementing direct booking strategies that target and attract your ideal guests.
  • Attract new guests effortlessly by using lead magnets that provide valuable and enticing content.
  • Learn how to create compelling calls to action in your marketing efforts to encourage potential guests to book directly with you.
  • Build trust with potential guests by showcasing the unique features and benefits of your short-term rental property.
  • Discover effective methods to grow your email list and leverage it to increase direct bookings from your loyal audience.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:05 - Starting with Direct Bookings

00:03:31 - Going Beyond Returning Guests

00:09:44 - Building Trust

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclasswaitlist


10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/


Check out ActiveCampaign: https://activecampaign.referralrock.com/l/16Z98PX6051/


18 Mar 2024Welcoming All Guests: How to Make Your Rental Spectrum-Friendly with Suzanne Hacker00:30:07

Imagine if you could make your vacation rental not just a place to stay, but a sanctuary of safety and comfort for families with children on the spectrum. 

Suzanne Hacker, a vacation rental business coach, shares her journey of creating spectrum-friendly rentals that go beyond the norm. From extra locks on doors to calming colours and sensory-friendly lighting, Suzanne's insights will open your eyes to a whole new level of inclusive hosting. Join her at the Welcoming All virtual summit on inclusive hosting, where she and other experts will share practical tips to enhance guest experience and increase direct bookings. Discover how being spectrum-friendly is more than just a niche – it's a powerful way to attract guests who are actively seeking accommodation that meets their specific needs. Don't miss out on this opportunity to turn your vacation rental into a haven for all.

The more that we can embrace things, people that are looking for that help with their vacation will come and stay with you and they will come direct because they are doing the research. - Suzanne Hacker

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Ensure guest safety by implementing effective measures in your vacation rentals.
  • Create welcoming and inclusive environments for guests on the autism spectrum.
  • Implement practical tips to enhance the guest experience and property management efficiency.
  • Embrace inclusivity in hosting to cater to the needs of all guests.
  • Learn successful strategies for increasing direct bookings and maximizing revenue.

My special guest this week is Suzanne Hacker.

Specializing in vacation rental business coaching, Suzanne Hacker is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in real estate investment and property management. Her expertise extends to creating spectrum-friendly accommodations, driven by a genuine commitment to inclusive hospitality. Drawing from practical insights gained through firsthand experience in hosting vacation rentals, Suzanne offers valuable perspectives on enhancing the safety and comfort of accommodations for guests with cognitive disabilities. With a focus on implementing practical solutions, such as additional door locks and mindful interior design elements, Suzanne's approach underscores her dedication to improving the guest experience for a diverse range of travelers. As she joins the podcast, listeners can anticipate gaining valuable knowledge and actionable strategies for making their vacation rentals more spectrum-friendly from Suzanne's wealth of expertise.

Connect with Suzanne:

Website: www.welcomingwow.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welcomingwow

Join Suzanne and Lorraine’s 2-day FREE Virtual Event that talks about managing your STR, getting more direct bookings and making your short term rental properties inclusive and accessible. Learn more details here: www.welcoming-all.com

FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub For...

18 Nov 2024How Successful Hosts Know Their Ideal Guest with Gil Chan00:28:32

Are you struggling to fill your short-term rental calendar? The secret to more bookings might not be what you think. In this episode, we explore why understanding your ideal guest is the key to transforming your marketing, increasing conversion rates, and creating seamless stays.

Join me as I chat with Gil Chan, a short-term rental host and founder of Crafted Stays, a hospitality tech company. Gil shares his journey from tech executive to passionate host, and how his experiences led him to create a game-changing platform for direct bookings.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

  • Identify your ideal guest avatar using review analysis
  • Tailor your marketing efforts to resonate with your target audience
  • Design your property and amenities with your ideal guest in mind
  • Create a website that converts visitors into bookings

“The more that we knew about our guests, the better that we actually did.” - Gil Chan

About Gil Chan

Gil Chan is a short-term rental host with several properties in the Great Smoky Mountains and Branson market.   He owns and manages these properties with his wife. He’s a father of two young kids. He was born and raised in Silicon Valley (California). He has been in technology for 15 years and has been part of 6 other startups before starting his own hospitality tech company, CraftedStays. Prior to CraftedStays, Gil was working in eCommerce and working closely with Shopify. He realized that in the eCommerce industry if you had an idea and wanted to sell directly to customers, you had platforms like Shopify to help you launch your business; however, in the short-term industry, you’re limited to the PMS standard sites or had to hire an agency to build your custom site. Gil is set out on a mission to enable all short-term rental hosts to be successful in direct bookings. 

Connect with Gil and Crafted Stays:

Website: https://craftedstays.co

Instagram: https://instagram.com/craftedstays

*GET AN EXCLUSIVE $35 OFF MONTHLY FOR THE 12-MONTHS IN CRAFTED STAYS ONLY FOR DBS PODCAST LISTENERS*

SIGN UP THROUGH THIS LINK: https://app.craftedstays.com/getstarted/dbs


Whether you're just starting out or looking to increase your direct bookings, this episode provides valuable insights to help your short-term rental business thrive. Don't miss out on these strategies to connect with your ideal guests and boost your bookings.

The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 The Secret to More Bookings: Understanding Your Ideal Guest

00:00:57 From Tech to Short-Term Rentals: Gil Chan's Journey

00:03:55 The Shift to Direct Bookings: Taking Control of Your Business

00:05:31 Building a Direct Booking Website: Challenges and Opportunities

00:07:31 Crafted Stays: Creating the Shopify for Short-Term Rentals

00:09:54 The Importance of Understanding Your Ideal Guest

00:13:30 Tailoring Marketing to Your Ideal Guest

00:18:29 Beyond Traffic: Optimizing Your Website for Conversions

00:21:18 Crafted Stays: A Purpose-Built Platform for Short-Term Rentals

00:24:46 Continuous Improvement and Special Offer

—------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Work with Jenn to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money...

17 Jun 2024How to Transform Unhappy Neighbours into Allies to Keep the Peace for your Airbnb with Chris Cade00:29:53

Does the struggle with community resistance to Airbnb sound all too familiar? You may have been advised to simply follow the standard Airbnb route, only to find yourself frustrated and worried about potential problems with neighbors and the community. The lack of results can lead to stress and sleepless nights, leaving you feeling stuck and unsure of how to move forward. But what if there's a better, more effective way to overcome community resistance and create a thriving vacation rental business? Let's dive into proven strategies that can put your worries to bed and pave the way for direct booking success.

I want to know that I know who's at my place. I want to know that my neighbors are happy and my places are safe in good hands and it's not being destroyed. And that, that's what success is to me. - Chris Cade

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Master direct booking strategies to increase occupancy and boost sustainable rental income.
  • Overcome community resistance to vacation rentals and Airbnb to expand your rental business.
  • Discover the power of niche marketing to attract ideal guests and maximize rental income.
  • Create compelling rental listings that stand out and attract more direct bookings.
  • Leverage local events and seasonal trends to optimize rental success and increase occupancy rates.

My special guest is Chris Cade

Chris Cade, the CEO of Saasberry and founder of Private B and B, brings a wealth of experience and creativity to the vacation rental industry. His journey into the business began over 25 years ago, driven by a passion for fishing and a vision to create lakefront cabins. Overcoming community resistance and navigating through regulatory challenges, Chris devised innovative solutions, ultimately leading to a successful direct booking initiative. His approach prioritizes building meaningful relationships with guests, resulting in a loyal following and a unique niche market within the industry. Chris's story is a testament to the power of personalized guest experiences and leveraging local connections for rental success.

Connect with Chris:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/PrivateBnb

** Take advantage of 15% off an annual subscription of PrivateBnB by using promo code: DBS head over - www.privatebnb.com/dbs for more details**


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Overcoming Community Challenges

00:04:14 - Early Days of Renting Cabins

00:09:00 - Community Relationships

00:11:47 - Niche Targeting and Ideal Guests

00:13:33 - Challenges of Remote Properties

00:14:09 - Discovering Niche Markets

00:16:33 - Expanding to New Niches

00:20:54 - Creating Private BNB

00:25:27 - The Non-Commercial Market

00:26:59 - Direct Booking Success

00:27:27 - Special Offer for Listeners

00:28:10 - Connecting with Chris

00:28:28 - Sharing Stories

00:29:25 - Taking Action

00:29:34 - Closing Remarks 


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join...

04 Mar 2024Why 94% of Guests Still Grocery Shop While on Vacation with Connor Paton00:31:04

If you're feeling the frustration of struggling to create a memorable guest experience and falling short on guest loyalty, then you are not alone! Are you tired of the same old methods not bringing in the direct bookings and guest loyalty you desire? It's time to switch things up and take your hospitality game to the next level. Let's dive into the game-changing strategies to boost guest loyalty and secure those direct bookings!

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Mastering guest experience: Elevate your rental business by creating unforgettable guest experiences that keep them coming back for more.
  • Building a standout brand identity: Learn how to craft a unique and compelling brand for your rental properties, setting them apart from the competition.
  • Experiential branding made easy: Discover how to create immersive and memorable experiences for your guests, leaving a lasting impression that drives direct bookings.
  • Unlocking upselling opportunities: Tap into effective strategies to increase revenue by upselling additional services or experiences to your guests.
  • Direct booking success secrets: Uncover the winning strategies for driving more direct bookings, reducing reliance on third-party booking platforms.

“If you can get a customer, whether it's from a direct booking or not, to just want to come back every year, then that can provide a huge lifetime value. Even if you offer that guest a discount to start or you bend over backwards to try and make them happy, you've got to think of this as the long game.” - Connor Paton


My special guest this week is Connor Paton.


Connor Paton, co-founder and CEO of Noshable, seamlessly blends his real estate expertise with a deep understanding of the ever-evolving hospitality industry. His journey from property management to prop tech startups has equipped him with a unique vantage point on the challenges and opportunities in the field. With a keen eye for enhancing guest experiences, Connor's insights into the importance of brand loyalty and the evolution of the short-term rental landscape offer valuable takeaways for property managers and hospitality professionals. Through his innovative approach to grocery concierge software, Connor is dedicated to empowering property managers to elevate guest satisfaction and drive direct bookings.

Connect with Connor: 

https://www.shopnoshable.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/connormpaton/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopnoshable/


**Book a demo with Noshable and mention that you heard about them on this DBS podcast to receive a boosted revenue share and have the delivery fee covered for your first guest.**


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Noshable

00:02:59 - Evolution of Hospitality

00:08:00 - Building Brand Loyalty

00:10:43 - Basics of Guest Experience

00:12:11 - Guest Priorities and Experiences

00:12:39 - The Importance of Meeting Guest Expectations

00:13:42 - Noshable - A Unique Grocery Delivery Service

00:14:28 - Convenience and Revenue Generation

00:15:37 - Leveraging Noshable for Property Managers

00:19:50 - Noshable's Market Coverage and Future Plans

00:25:00 - Building Brand Loyalty

00:26:05 - Reasonable Hospitality

00:27:30 - Direct Booking Success

00:28:06 - Special Offer for Listeners 


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb:

25 Mar 2024How I Built 80% Direct Bookings and 60% Return Guests with Rose Tipka00:29:27

Are you ready for a surprising twist?

Imagine running a multi-million-dollar vacation rental business while homeschooling six kids.

Rose Tipka, the CEO of Your Family's Place, not only achieves this but also shares her secrets in a 52-part Instagram series. But here's the real surprise – her direct booking success strategy isn't just about marketing; it's about building relationships.

Want to know how she does it? Stay tuned to uncover how Rose's unconventional approach has redefined direct booking success and how you can apply her strategies to your own vacation rental business.

Life is messy. But I got to tell you, life is messy for everybody. Life is messy for people with one kid. Life is messy for somebody with a bunch of kids that go to regular school. That is the reality for all of us. And for me, choosing to homeschool is because I want my kids to have the freedom of time and opportunity to follow their interests, their passions. - Rose Tipka

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Enhance Your Brand Presence with Direct Booking Relationships: Discover powerful strategies to build direct relationships with guests and boost your vacation rental brand.
  • Empower Your Entrepreneurial Journey as a Mother: Uncover effective tips for balancing the demands of motherhood while running a successful vacation rental business.
  • Level Up Your Vacation Rental Management Skills: Master insider tips and tricks for efficient and effective vacation rental management.
  • Elevate Guest Communication Strategies for Hosting Success: Explore expert strategies for communicating with guests to create memorable experiences and secure repeat bookings.
  • Amplify Your Vacation Rental Visibility: Unlock the secrets to maximizing your vacation rental's visibility and attracting more bookings.

My special guest is Rose Tipka

Rose Tipka, CEO of Your Family's Place, and the mind behind Hosting In The Motherhood, brings a wealth of experience to the vacation rental industry. As a homeschooling mom of six children, she manages $3 million worth of vacation rentals in Ohio, situated near Amish Country. With a focus on building direct booking relationships, Rose's expertise extends to guest communication strategies, maximizing vacation rental visibility, and balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with motherhood. Her success in strengthening brand presence and increasing direct bookings makes her a trusted authority in vacation rental management, offering valuable insights for hosts seeking to enhance their direct booking strategy.

Watch Rose on TV: https://fox8.com/on-air/new-day-cleveland/travel-tips-from-a-vacation-rental-expert/

Connect with Rose:

www.yourfamilyspace.com

www.hostinginthemotherhood.com

https://www.instagram.com/yourfamilysplace_

https://www.instagram.com/hostinginthemotherhood



The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction and Background

00:02:33 - Building Book Direct Relationship

00:05:07 - Memorable Guest Interactions

00:09:57 - Personalized Approach

00:12:08 - Building Credibility

00:14:52 - Building Brand Visibility

00:16:52 - Triangulating Authority

00:18:14 - Homeschooling and Work-Life Harmony

00:24:56 - Direct Booking Success

00:26:05 - Building a Real Business

FREE...

25 Dec 2023Turn Your Website into a Direct Booking Magnet: Expert Tips from Sarah Orchard00:30:29

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of direct bookings for your short-term rental, despite your efforts to increase them through website optimization, then you are not alone! 

Many owners and managers may be tirelessly optimizing their websites, using eye-catching photos, engaging descriptions, and even implementing SEO strategies, only to find that they are still heavily reliant on booking agents. Instead of seeing a surge in direct bookings, they may be experiencing a constant stream of inquiries from third-party platforms, leading to increased fees and reduced control over their own business.

My guest this week is Sarah Orchard.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Find out why optimizing your website is key to ramping up direct bookings.
  • Get insights on personalizing website content to entice your target guests.
  • Grasp how a well-curated About page can foster trust and enhance relationships with your prospects.
  • Get your hands on tried-and-true tactics for augmenting reservations on your website.
  • Learn about the economic benefits of directing your focus on direct bookings.

Meet Sarah Orchard, the dynamic force behind The Hudnalls Hideout, a luxury treehouse located in the UK's beautiful Wye Valley and a much-sought-after vacation spot. Armed with a deep understanding of the short-term rental market, Sarah has led her venture to dizzying heights of popularity. She has also conceptualized and created Get Fully Booked offering  invaluable marketing training to hosts, bringing them closer to their direct booking goals.

Connect with Sarah:

https://hudnallshideout.co.uk

https://get-fully-booked.com/ 

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

13 May 2024From Corporate to Cash Flow Queen: How I Built a Midterm Rental Empire with Vivian Yip00:30:48

Discover the shocking truth behind the explosive growth of midterm rentals! One entrepreneur's journey from escaping the corporate world to building a thriving business that's recession-proof. Learn the unexpected strategy that transformed a six-figure job into financial freedom and sustainable success. Find out how this laid-back, casual approach to hospitality could be the game-changer you've been searching for. Get ready to dive into the surprising world of midterm rentals and unlock the secrets to building a business that stands the test of time. Stay tuned for the eye-opening revelations ahead!

It's important for you to have a well rounded business, be well connected. And I hate to say it so cliche, but your network is your net worth. - Vivian Yip


In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover the Key Strategies for Transitioning from Short-Term to Midterm Rentals and Maximize Your Property's Revenue Potential.
  • Uncover the Hidden Benefits of Investing in Midterm Rentals and Create a More Sustainable Income Stream for Your Property.
  • Learn Proven Strategies for Successful Direct Bookings in Rentals and Take Control of Your Property's Occupancy.
  • Navigate the Complex World of Regulations in Short-Term and Midterm Rentals to Ensure Compliance and Peace of Mind.
  • Implement Expert Furnishing Tips for Midterm Rental Properties to Attract Long-Term Guests and Enhance Property Value.


My very special guest this episode is Vivian Yip. Vivian is the founder of Hestia by Corporate Rentals USA, boasts an extensive corporate background, including a significant tenure at Apple, where she played a pivotal role in the launch of the iPhone twelve during the challenging times of the pandemic. Leveraging her expertise, Vivian has successfully transitioned into real estate investing, amassing a notable portfolio of nine properties in Austin, Texas. Her accidental foray into midterm rentals, prompted by the need to secure her revenue stream during the pandemic, has equipped her with invaluable insights into the nuances of this emerging trend. With a focus on furnishing tips, successful direct booking strategies, and adeptly navigating rental regulations, Vivian's expertise offers property owners a comprehensive guide to diversifying their revenue streams and embracing the opportunities presented by midterm rentals.


Connect with Vivian:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivianyip_official/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vivianyipofficial


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction and Background

00:03:47 - Exploring Midterm Rentals

00:09:17 - Unique Needs of Midterm Rental Guests

00:10:39 - Lead Generation for Midterm Rentals

00:13:28 - Community and Neighbors

00:14:21 - Challenges with Neighbors and Guests

00:15:22 - Advantages of Midterm Rentals

00:16:31 - Getting Started with Midterm Rentals

00:19:36 - The Hestia Brand and Future Trends

00:25:12 - Direct Booking Success and Business Stability

00:28:56 - Diversification is Key

00:29:13 - Gratitude and Links

00:29:29 - The Power of Midterm Rentals

00:29:52 - Inspiring Success Story

00:30:18 - Closing Remarks 


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at:

29 Apr 2024How a Retired Couple Discovered Direct Bookings for their 14 Apartments with Michael Guildford00:18:05

Discover how a retired couple turned their 14-property business into a direct booking powerhouse, defying the odds in their golden years. But the unexpected twist in their journey will leave you on the edge of your seat. Stay tuned to find out how they overcame a shocking setback and harnessed the power of technology to boost their business value. It's a story of resilience, innovation, and the surprising secret to unlocking direct booking success that you won't want to miss.

The best business you've ever owned is the one you just sold for seven figures. And direct bookings, that data list increases the value of your business. That gives your business something to actually sell. - Michael Guildford

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Maximize your property's revenue with proven direct booking strategies.
  • Secure your financial future by learning effective passive income strategies for retirement.
  • Enhance guest experience and streamline operations with the power of QR codes in hospitality.
  • Build a valuable guest email list for direct marketing and personalized communication.
  • Discover the crucial role of direct bookings in maximizing your property's profitability.

My special guest is Michael Guildford

Michael Guildford, an established figure in property management hailing from Brisbane, Australia, has delved into the realm of direct bookings with a unique approach. Managing a portfolio of 14 apartments in Brisbane's CBD, his journey reflects a quest for passive income in retirement. Michael's expertise lies in leveraging innovative strategies, such as QR codes and email collection, to drive direct bookings and augment the value of customer databases. His firsthand experiences and practical insights offer a valuable blueprint for property managers aiming to optimize their direct booking capabilities and elevate their business prospects.

Utilizing QR codes in hospitality, such as EmailCollect, enhances the guest experience by providing easy access to Wi-Fi in exchange for contact details. QR codes streamline the guest data collection process, improving efficiency and enhancing guest satisfaction. By incorporating QR code technology, property managers can create a seamless guest experience and foster stronger guest relationships.

Learn more about EmailCollect - https://emailcollect.com/

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Email Collect

00:03:53 - The Importance of Direct Bookings

00:07:55 - Introducing Email Collect

00:11:37 - Leveraging Guest Data for Marketing

00:13:57 - The Entrepreneurial Spirit and Global Accessibility

00:14:35 - Building a Strong Business with Direct Bookings

00:15:20 - Impact of Negative Reviews

00:15:49 - Value of Direct Bookings Data

00:16:29 - Business Independence and Value

00:16:54 - Conclusion and Gratitude 


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub:

07 Oct 2024How an Online Summit Can Transform Your Direct Bookings00:14:49

Are you ready to take control of your vacation rental business and boost your direct bookings? In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the 2024 Direct Booking Success Summit – an online event designed to empower short-term rental hosts and property managers with cutting-edge strategies and expert insights.

“You're not doing this alone. You're part of a much larger community, all working towards the same goal, growing your vacation rental business through direct bookings.” - Jenn Boyles


Discover how this flexible, online summit can fit seamlessly into your busy schedule, allowing you to access valuable content from anywhere in the world. Here's what you'll discover in this value-packed discussion:

  • The summit's structure and how to make the most of the 24-hour viewing window
  • Why the All Access Pass might be your secret weapon for ongoing learning
  • A sneak peek at some of the 29 industry experts sharing their knowledge
  • How to connect with a global community of like-minded professionals


Learn why events like summits and conferences are crucial for your business growth. We'll discuss:

  • The unparalleled value of expert-led sessions
  • Networking opportunities that lead to game-changing collaborations
  • Exposure to cutting-edge tools and tactics


Are you ready to take control of your vacation rental business? Register now and prepare to elevate your strategy, connect with industry leaders, and pave the way for a more profitable future. Register here: www.dbssummit.com


The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 Introducing the Direct Booking Success Podcast: Strategies for Short-Term Rentals

00:00:46 2024 Direct Booking Success Summit: Overview and Benefits

00:05:30 Actionable Strategies and Expert Insights for Vacation Rental Success

00:09:30 Featured Speakers and Session Highlights at the 2024 Summit

00:14:27 Closing Remarks and Next Episode Preview


—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Direct Booking Success 2024 kicks off  on October 8, 2024!

YOU STILL HAVE TIME TO GET YOUR FREE TICKET TODAY.


In this 3-day FREE online summit, you’ll learn how to stop relying on OTAs like Airbnb and make more money with more control. Learn how to increase your direct bookings from industry experts and your fellow property managers from all over the world. 


This summit is completely free and online. Save your spot today: https://DBSsummit.com/


While the summit is completely free, I highly recommend upgrading your free ticket to include the All-Access Pass and here’s why: 

✅ Lifetime Access to All Sessions: Rewatch every powerful session at your convenience, so you don’t have to worry about juggling your busy schedule.

✅ Exclusive Bonus Content: Gain deeper insights with behind-the-scenes interviews, bonus workshops, and expert-led training that you won't find anywhere else.

✅ Downloadable Workbooks & Checklists: Fast-track your growth with actionable tools that you can implement in your business right away.

✅ VIP Q&A Access: Get your burning questions answered by the experts in private sessions, ensuring you get personalized advice for your unique business...

11 Sep 2023Scaling Made Simple: Proven Strategies for Remote Vacation Rental Property Management with Lisa Roads00:36:25

Does this sound familiar? You've been told that the key to scaling your property management business remotely is to simply work harder and put in more hours. Yet, despite your efforts, you're not seeing the growth and efficiency you desire. The pain of working tirelessly without achieving the desired results can be frustrating and demotivating. But what if there's a better way? A strategic approach that focuses on customer service, building strong relationships, and implementing proven strategies in the short-term rental industry. It's time to discover a path to success that doesn't require endless hours of work but instead leads to increased efficiency and growth.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Absorb ways to bring about growth in your property management business irrespective of location.
  • Reveal the power of extraordinary service and exceptional experiences in securing an edge in the hospitality sector.
  • Foster relationships with clients that will withstand the test of time and result in continued success.
  • Dissect result-oriented strategies in the world of short-term rentals.
  • Recognize the profound influence of mentors and advisors in driving success in the hospitality industry.

My special guest this week is Lisa Roads.

Lisa is an accomplished property management mogul with a remarkable track record spanning over 20 years. Driven by her father's entrepreneurial spirit, she initiated her journey with small investments in the UK. Over time, she has blossomed into an expert manager, juggling numerous properties all across Cyprus, while herself residing in the Middle East. By hand-picking teams locally and meticulously strategizing every operation, Lisa has set an impressive benchmark in short-term rentals and property management. She is here today to give us an insight into her journey and her effective tactics for managing property portfolios remotely.

There's an opportunity here to create a service that others like me are going to need. - Lisa Roads

Connect with Lisa:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaroads/

https://theholidaypropertycoach.wordpress.com

https://www.facebook.com/theholidaypropertycoach

https://linktr.ee/lisaroads

SPECIAL OFFER FOR LISTENERS: 10% discount off Lisa’s signature Five P's of a successful short-term rental program.


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:04 - Starting in the Short-Term Rental Business

00:05:03 - Scaling the Business

00:08:38 - Becoming the Local Insider

00:11:40 - The Importance of Investing in Property

00:14:05 - Building Connections and Embracing Competition

00:15:24 - Delivering Exceptional Service and Building Customer Loyalty

00:16:41 - Scaling a Property Management Business

00:19:29 - The Power of Personal Connections and Exceptional Service

00:23:02 - Navigating the Rise of Airbnb

00:27:46 - Lisa's Transition and Helping Others

00:30:43 - Realities of the Hospitality Industry

00:31:48 - Working with Like-Minded People

00:33:26 - Direct Booking Success

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group:...

24 Apr 2023Using Chat GPT for your STR with Bart Sobies00:40:30

Have you heard of Chat GPT?

Of course you have! But do you know how to use it? And how to use it for your STR business specifically? Today's guest Bart Sobies gives us a brief description of what it is and many examples of how we can benefit from using the AI tool in the hospitality industry and how to generate more direct bookings.


We talk about:

  • What AI is and what Chat GPT is
  • How we can use Chat GPT in our marketing and communications
  • Giving context to our questions
  • The pros and cons of using it in your accommodation business
  • Thinking outside the box when using Chat GPT
  • What does Direct Booking Success mean to Bart


Book your free 15 minute call with me here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/call

If you are struggling with direct bookings right now whether that is moving away from using the online travel agents like Airbnb or just getting more bookings in right now, then I’m here to help. 


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


CONNECT WITH Bart Sobies

Take Bart’s AI Challenge: https://ibooked.online/ai 

Connect with Bart: https://ibooked.online/bart

07 Aug 2023Don't Wait for the Perfect Time: Boost your Vacation Rental Bookings and Seize Opportunities Now!00:08:43

Are you making the most of each day or just trying to get through it? Accommodation business managers and owners, it's time to seize the day and maximize your bookings during the slow seasons But what happens when your calendar is empty and you're left scrambling for last-minute bookings? Stay tuned to find out...

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Get a grip on maximizing the potential of each day and honing your productivity skills.
  • Gain knowledge about the imperative role of forward-thinking marketing during lean seasons.
  • Get savvy about designing engaging content that highlights the upcoming slow season's potential.
  • Enhance your email marketing skills to foster strong relationships with former guests and secure their loyalty.
  • Dive into the enlightening world of a free masterclass designed to help build a powerful, profitable direct booking sales pipeline.

Your slow season might be just around the corner and the worst thing to happen for you is to come out of this busy period and all of a sudden see an empty calendar stretching before you. Yikes. - Jenn Boyles

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:37 - Making the Most of Busy Periods

00:02:55 - The Importance of Time and Planning Ahead

00:04:41 - Marketing Strategies for Slow Seasons

00:07:21 - An Invitation

Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


11 Mar 2024Uncovering the Unique Challenges for Canadian Short-Term Rental Property Managers with Catherine Ratcliffe00:31:33

Are you a short-term rental operator in Canada? Have you ever felt like the industry content you come across doesn't really apply to your Canadian-specific challenges? Maybe you've been told to just follow the same strategies as those in the US, but ended up feeling frustrated and stuck? If you're tired of trying to adapt generic advice to your Canadian business and not getting the results you need, you're not alone. Let's uncover the unique industry issues specific to Canada and find the solutions you've been looking for.

If you're hosting a conference in a specific country, then it really needs to have an element of that country's content. - Catherine Ratcliffe

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover Canadian-specific industry issues that impact your short-term rental business.
  • Learn how to address human trafficking concerns within the Canadian short-term rental market.
  • Uncover successful strategies for direct booking in the Canadian short-term rental industry.
  • Understand the importance of building and maintaining strong guest relationships in the Canadian short-term rental market.
  • Navigate and ensure compliance with specific Canadian rental regulations for short-term rentals.

My special guest this week is Catherine Ratcliffe.

Meet Catherine Ratcliffe, the visionary behind STR Benefits Consulting and Lost Together Stays, and the driving force behind CanStays Rental Alliance. With a keen understanding of the Canadian short-term rental landscape, Catherine's journey in the industry and her unwavering commitment to addressing Canadian-specific regulations make her a trusted voice in the field. Her dedication to organizing the CanStays Rental Alliance conference reflects her passion for supporting and empowering Canadian short-term rental owners. Catherine's expertise and advocacy for informed and compliant business operations make her a compelling and valuable guest for this episode.

https://www.canstaysrentalalliance.com/

$100 off the conference registration using code DBS

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:03:01 - Can Stays Rental Alliance and Its Purpose

00:06:30 - Addressing Human Trafficking in the Short-Term Rental Industry

00:10:41 - Advocacy and Education on Public Safety and Human Trafficking

00:16:22 - The Importance of the CanStays Conference

00:17:10 - Diverse Topics at the Conference

00:19:01 - Unique Canadian Regulations

00:21:23 - Importance of Understanding Canadian Market

00:29:36 - What Direct Booking Success means to Catherine

FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub For Hospitality: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforhospitality

19 Sep 2022Who do you want to welcome into your home with Louise Brace00:20:52

In today's episode, I speak with Louise Brace, owner of Rental Tonic who helps owners and hosts create direct booking strategies for their Direct Booking websites and other channels. Louise is a copywriter and digital marketing strategist and is also speaking at the Direct Booking Success Summit this year

Topics discussed:

  • Home is where your heart is
  • How marketing your property has changed in the last 10 years
  • Converting your inbound content
  • Creating the whole story around your accommodation experience
  • Making copywriting both SEO and human friendly
  • Who do you want to welcome into your home?
  • Making friends and receiving those five-star reviews
  • What direct booking success summit means to Louise


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/


CONNECT WITH Louise Brace:

Website: https://rentaltonic.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RentalTonic

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lou_brace

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisebrace/


Join me at the online Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022) https://www.directbookingsuccesssummit.com

16 Sep 2024Reviving Your Marketing After a Busy STR Season00:09:06

As the busy season winds down, are you finding your calendar looking a little sparse? It's a common challenge for short-term rental hosts, but don't let those empty autumn weeks cause you undue stress. In this episode, we're exploring effective strategies to boost your off-peak bookings without resorting to desperate measures.

In this episode, we're exploring effective strategies to boost your off-peak bookings without resorting to desperate measures.


"Marketing is something that does need a bit of weed time. It isn't a silver bullet that you could just launch at the last minute to save the day." - Jenn Boyles


Here's what you'll discover in this value-packed discussion:

  • The importance of consistent marketing, even during peak seasons
  • Why discounting isn’t the answer to filing vacancies
  • How to leverage your existing guest relationships
  • The critical role of email marketing in your booking strategy


The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 Strategies for Boosting Off-Peak Bookings in Your Vacation Rental

00:00:51 Introduction to the Direct Booking Success Podcast

00:01:14 The Importance of Consistent Marketing for Vacation Rentals

00:04:42 Effective Marketing Strategies for Filling Empty Calendars

00:08:45 Promotion of the Direct Booking Success Summit


—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Direct Booking Success is back for 2024 and this year has gotten even BETTER! 


In this 3-day FREE virtual and global summit, you’ll learn how to stop relying on OTAs like Airbnb and make more money with more control. Learn how to increase your direct bookings from industry experts and your fellow property managers. 


This summit is completely FREE, Virtual and Global, reserve your seats today: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


Work with Jenn to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money on it: https://directbookingsuccess.com/apply/


The ULTIMATE all-in-one marketing platform for short term rental is finally here! Sign up now and be the first to try it: https://bookdirectpro.com/


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub: https://www.facebook.com/groups/strmarketinghub


10 Jul 2023Direct Booking 101: How to Achieve Daily Direct Stays for your Vacation Rental00:07:24

Are you tired of unpredictable booking levels? In this episode, I reveal my secrets to getting direct bookings every day while diversifying your channels. But what happens when one of your main channels suddenly disappears? Tune in to find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover the power of direct bookings and channel diversification to optimize your hospitality business.
  • Uncover how social media can skyrocket your brand's presence and drive engagement.
  • Learn to craft content that resonates with your target audience by addressing their needs and offering solutions.
  • Realize the significance of focusing on concrete booking numbers rather than being swayed by vanity metrics.
  • Grasp the importance of using persuasive call-to-action techniques to inspire guests to book direct stays.

Don't wait until your makeup is perfect or your hair is done. Get your brand out there. Tell everyone about it. Create brand awareness. - Jenn Boyles

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Don't Panic! Your Business Isn't Failing

00:02:04 - Tactics to Boost Your Bookings Flow

00:03:57 - Direct Booking Success Booking Engine

00:05:00 - Vanity Metrics and Direct Bookings

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass


08 Jan 2024An Expert Guide to Direct Booking Success00:14:39

In the pursuit of direct booking success, the unexpected twist lies in the diverse and heartfelt narratives shared by industry experts. As each guest delves into their personal experiences, listeners are captivated by the emotional resonance of their journeys. From the quest for autonomy to the forging of authentic connections, the multifaceted nature of success unfolds in a tapestry of perspectives. But what will these inspiring stories ignite within you?

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Master the art of direct booking success to increase your revenue and independence.
  • Take control of your brand to stand out and attract more guests.
  • Enhance guest experience and build sustainable practices for long-term success.
  • Create a community around your rental and add value for a loyal guest base.

My special guest are Kelly Odor, Yvonne Halling, Thibault Masson, Daniela Derin, Sarah Orchard, Rebecca Lombardo, Travis Wilburn, Lisa Roads, Bob Garner, Zach Busekrus, Adams Taranda, Sara Sokol, Heather Bayer, Louise Brace, Jane Mack, Tracey Northcott, Christianne Crump, Mark Winship and Annie Sloan.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction to Direct Booking Success

00:02:05 - Control and Brand Building

00:07:38 - Guest Experience and Relationship Building

00:10:01 - Security and Sustainability

00:12:56 - Celebrating Direct Booking Milestones 

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

15 May 2023Building Trust and Relationships in Vacation Rentals with Jane Mack00:35:50

She left her city life behind to move to a remote island and run a holiday let management business with her husband. But when unexpected demand for bookings grows beyond their expectations, will they be able to keep up and maintain their success? Find out in this intriguing tale of a small business that went from zero to 100% direct bookings.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Develop meaningful liaisons with property owners and guests for a strong business base.
  • Stay prepared for evolving ventures by adopting flexibility and scalability.
  • Immerse yourself in the world of varied marketing approaches to captivate different target audiences.
  • Win customer allegiance through tailor-made services that fortify trust.
  • Get acquainted with the crux of establishing a unique selling proposition to lure potential clients.

My special guest is Jane Mack, a holiday let coach and consultant with a fascinating journey. Jane and her husband bought a holiday home property management company back in 2010, and decided to expand it to offer advertising and bookings. By 2012 they had created a full blown holiday letting agency. Their business continued to grow until they sold it to the UK’s largest holiday letting company in 2017. Having managed over 100 holiday properties, thousands of guests and with 10 years of hands-on experience, she decided to help others in the holiday let industry to grow their businesses, just as she had done. 

See more: https://linktr.ee/janemackcoaching

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction,

00:01:02 - Background and Experience,

00:06:02 - Expanding the Business,

00:09:38 - Offline Marketing,

00:12:45 - Catering to a Diverse Customer Base,

00:13:55 - Marketing Strategies,

00:15:50 - Personal Touch and Repeat Customers,

00:19:28 - Importance of an Office,

00:25:25 - The Importance of Using Technology and Investing in Business,

00:26:48 - Tips for Growing Your Business,

00:30:03 - Life After Selling a Business,

00:32:32 - What Direct Booking Success means to Jane

Book your free 15 minute call with Jenn Boyles here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/call

If you are struggling with direct bookings right now whether that is moving away from using the online travel agents like Airbnb or just getting more bookings in right now, then I’m here to help. 

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


05 Feb 2024Vacation Rental Secrets: How to Capture More Bookings and Loyal Guests with Jeff Iloulian00:37:49

If you're feeling frustrated because your current marketing efforts are not generating the direct bookings and repeat guests you desire, then you are not alone! You may be spending time and resources on social media and online advertising, only to see minimal results in terms of brand recognition and customer loyalty. Instead of seeing an increase in direct bookings, you may be struggling to stand out in a crowded vacation rental market, leaving you feeling overlooked and undervalued. It's time to pivot your branding strategy and focus on building a strong vacation rental brand that resonates with your target audience and sets you apart from the competition.

The real winners in the space are the people that are performing in the top ten, top 20% of listings. And it's not that the listings somehow are magically better. You can look at an apples to apples comparison, it's just that they're designed better, they have better quality things inside. - Jeff Iloulian

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Learn the secrets to boosting direct bookings and guest loyalty with our latest podcast episode.
  • Discover the power of group purchasing to streamline expenses and maximize profits in your vacation rental business.
  • Uncover the significance of maintaining brand consistency for a strong and memorable vacation rental identity.
  • Unlock insider tips for saving money on essential products for your vacation rental without compromising quality.
  • Master the art of building a compelling and recognizable brand for your vacation rental, setting you apart from the competition.

My special guest this week is Jeff Iloulian. Jeff is the co-founder and CEO of Host GPO. He brings extensive experience in managing a diverse portfolio of 150 vacation rental properties, ranging from luxury homes to individual studios. With a background in law, Jeff's transition into the vacation rental industry showcases his strategic vision and adaptability. His entrepreneurial journey led to the founding of Host GPO, a pioneering buying group that revolutionizes the procurement process for hosts, providing access to top-tier brands and products. Jeff's expertise in navigating the challenges of property management and his emphasis on the significance of quality furnishings offer practical insights for hosts aiming to enhance their brand presence and elevate guest satisfaction.

Connect with Jeff:

Host GPO – 3 months free – no commitment – https://mydbs.live/hostgpo

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-iloulian-bb0b6829/

https://www.instagram.com/hostgpo/

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction to Vacation Rental Industry

00:03:00 - Host GPO and Group Purchasing Organization

00:08:01 - Impact of Quality on Vacation Rental Costs

00:12:30 - Hospitality Grade Products and Wholesale Experience

00:14:02 - Importance of Brand Standards in Vacation Rentals

00:16:27 - Buying Brand Standard Products

00:18:50 - Allocating Budget for Maximum Impact

00:22:53 - Hospitality Do's and Don'ts

00:26:45 - Protecting Personal Items in Rentals

00:27:47 - Leveraging Property Features for Bookings

00:29:13 - Unique Items and Partnerships

00:30:46 - Membership Discounts and Savings

00:33:42 - Building a Brand Standard for Direct Bookings

00:36:03 - Host GPO Trial and Expansion


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb:

06 Feb 2023Driving on the road to direct booking success without a map00:09:29

I believe that having your own marketing plan is crucial for achieving more direct bookings for your holiday/vacation/short-term rental business. Without one, it's like going on a road trip without a map or GPS – you just won't know where you're going or how to get there.

Having a plan gives you the confidence that you are on the road for direct booking success along with the knowledge and tools to get there.

I talk about:

  • The importance of having a marketing plan for your hospitality business
  • How you wouldn’t go on a road trip without a map or GPS
  • The questions to answer in order to start to create that plan
  • How you don’t have to do it all to be successful
  • The need of your own unique marketing plan

Book your free 15 minute call

I’ll help you get the clarity on the three areas you need to focus on to progress your direct bookings

https://directbookingsuccess.com/call

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

22 Jul 2024Why Consistency in your Marketing Isn’t Enough for Direct Bookings00:15:38

Have you been told that consistency is the key to successful marketing? But what if we told you there's a smarter strategy to drive direct bookings for your vacation rental business?

In this eye-opening episode, we'll challenge conventional wisdom and reveal why simply being consistent isn't enough. Discover the untapped potential of strategic consistency - a powerful approach that combines consistency with intentionality and data-driven decision-making.


It's not just about being consistent, it's about being strategic and consistent. - Jenn Boyles


Here's what you can expect from this insightful discussion:

  • Understand the pitfalls of blind consistency and why it can lead you astray.
  • Learn how to define your ideal guest and craft content that truly resonates.
  • Get actionable tips on leveraging data and analytics to guide your marketing efforts.
  • Hear real-life examples of property managers who transformed their results through strategic consistency.
  • Discover the power of personalization and engaging with your audience for long-term success.
  • Walk away with a step-by-step framework to build a sustainable, high-impact marketing strategy.

Consistent marketing efforts play a significant role in maintaining brand visibility and attracting potential guests to short-term rental properties. However, it is essential to go beyond mere consistency and focus on strategic marketing activities tailored to the target audience. By harnessing marketing consistency effectively, property managers can build a strong brand presence and drive more direct bookings. Let's dive in and uncover the smarter way to make your marketing efforts not just consistent, but strategically consistent.


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - The Importance of Strategic Consistency

00:04:18 - The Pitfalls of Consistency Alone

00:06:00 - The Importance of Data and Metrics

00:10:28 - Practical Tips for Strategic Consistency


Sign up for the FREE Virtual Direct Booking Success Summit: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub: https://www.facebook.com/groups/strmarketinghub


20 Mar 2023Giving guests more with Madison Rifkin of Mount00:30:28

What if you could create more revenue while increasing your guests’ experience?

That's precisely what me and Madison Rifkin of Mount discuss in this episode of the Direct Booking Success Podcast.

Madison is a young entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in innovation working towards creating better experiences for guests and travellers worldwide. Madison also explains how using Mount can drive more direct bookings to your short-term rental.

We talk about:

  • Where Mount started
  • Not giving up, generating funds and patenting the ideas
  • The Mount system
  • Hospitality vs. upselling
  • Helping guests have more experiences
  • What insurance is needed
  • How the Mount app   works
  • Generating more direct bookings with the Mount community
  • What direct booking success means to Madi


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


CONNECT WITH Madison Rifkin:

Website: https://www.rentmount.com

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/rentmount

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mountamenities

01 Apr 2024How I Learned the Hard Way that Direct Bookings Build Trust with Brittany Blackman00:32:34

If you're feeling the frustration of struggling to find a way to build trust with your vacation rental guests, even after offering a great experience, then you are not alone! Many property owners in the vacation rental industry are finding it challenging to establish that trust with their guests, leading to missed opportunities and potentially dissatisfied customers.

You can have this vision and put it all out there. But if you don't take that other perspective of how people are perceiving you and that experience you're providing them, then it doesn't matter how much advertising and direct booking strategy you have. - Brittany Blackman

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover the essentials of starting a successful vacation rental business.
  • Explore the impact of COVID-19 on the vacation rental industry and learn how to adapt.
  • Master effective strategies for securing direct bookings for your vacation rental property.
  • Uncover the key to building trust and rapport with your vacation rental guests.
  • Realize the benefits of utilizing professional photography to enhance your vacation rental listings.

My special guest in this episode is Brittany Blackman. Brittany Blackman is the owner and founder of Breathe Easy Rentals, possesses extensive expertise in the vacation rental industry, with over a decade of experience. Through her journey from working with a property management company to establishing her own vacation rental business during the challenges of the pandemic, she has garnered valuable insights into the dynamics of building trust with guests. Brittany's emphasis on delivering exceptional guest experiences and her astute attention to detail make her a respected figure in the industry. Her practical experiences and observations provide a compelling perspective on the significance of direct bookings and the pivotal role they play in establishing trust with guests.

Learn more and connect with Brittany:

www.breatheeasyrentals.com

www.facebook.com/breatheeasyrentals

www.instagram.com/breatheeasyrentals

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-blackman-384141216/

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Breathe Easy Rentals

00:04:39 - Emotional Roller Coaster of Entrepreneurship

00:10:17 - Challenges of Finding Vacation Rentals

00:12:45 - Building Trust Through Direct Bookings

00:13:32 - Importance of Secure Payment Options

00:13:56 - Building Trust with Direct Bookings

00:15:12 - Lack of Trust and Confirmation

00:18:28 - Providing Feedback to Property Owners

00:21:18 - Importance of Articulating the Message

00:26:48 - Direct Booking Success

00:28:22 - Connecting with Brittany Blackman

FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram:...

17 Apr 2023Calling guests on the phone before they stay with Ged Hartshorn00:24:07

I loved speaking with today's guest and finding out more about the one thing she has done that has made a real difference to her short-term rental business.

Today I spoke with Ged Hartshorn, who has created a way to make her guests feel welcome and, at the same time, retrieve vital information to really make their stay and future stays much more bespoke and personal.

We talk about:

  • Managing a property long distance
  • How calling her guests grew from a necessity
  • Using a script to engage with guest
  • Capitalising on people's excitement to retrieve information for a better experience
  • Going above and beyond to ensure the guests feel special
  • Creating memorable experiences that generate repeat bookings
  • Focusing on marketing to keep 100% Book Direct
  • What direct booking success means to Ged

Have you done one thing in your business that has made a difference? 

I want to hear from you! Let me know what you’ve done and you might be a guest on a future episode. Apply here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/onething


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


CONNECT WITH Ged Hartshorn

Website: https://gwendon.co.uk/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gwendonholidayhome/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gwendonholidayhome 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwendonholidayhome/ 


22 Aug 2022Getting bookings in your calendar with Kelly Odor00:19:02

Hello and welcome to episode 9. Today I am chatting with another returning Direct Booking Success Summit speaker, it’s Kelly Odor; Marketing Director at Bookster.

Kelly is an accomplished leader with 22 years of experience in the areas of marketing, business development, product development, and strategic planning within multiple industries. 

She is frequently recognised for her expertise at industry-wide events, and the Direct Booking Success Summit is no different. I’m thrilled to have her back again to speak. 

This year, Kelly will be speaking on simple techniques to attract the people you want.

Topics discussed:

  • What Bookster is and how it helps the short-term rental industry
  • Incorporating SEO into your web design
  • What has kept Kelly in the industry
  • Looking at the impact on the environment both personally and as a company
  • What Kelly is going to be speaking about at this year’s summit
  • Being in control of your guest data, email data, business rules and outlays
  • What direct booking success means to Kelly


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles



CONNECT WITH Kelly Odor:

Website: https://www.booksterhq.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/booksterhq/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-odor/?originalSubdomain=uk

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kelly_odor 


Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). Get on the waitlist – https://www.directbookingsuccesssummit.com

11 Jul 2022What I wish I had known00:11:30

Growing up in the hospitality industry gave me a unique insight into its ups

and (smelly 😊 ) downs! In today’s episode, I give you some insight into my background, growing up in hospitality, my creative education, and managing properties around the world. I let you in on some of the things I wished I had known in the hope that it will help you in your quest to direct booking success

Topics discussed

  • Growing up with the fun and glamorous side of hospitality
  • The dreaded laundry room
  • Acquiring skills in graphic design and marketing creative arts
  • Difficulties standing out on Airbnb
  • Guests from previous owners
  • What I wished I’d known


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/

Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). 

19 Feb 2024365 Days to Direct Booking Success: Essential Website Tips with Bart Sobies00:51:10

Do you ever feel like you're putting so much effort into your website, but not seeing the direct booking results you want? You've probably been told to work harder and figure it out, but the more you try, the more frustrated and stuck you feel. It's time to stop the cycle of ineffective actions and start making real progress. Let's break free from the pain of not getting results and find a better way to optimize your website for increased direct bookings.

All of our websites, every single year, and we do this for all of our clients, we go through, and we update the titles of the website to say book direct because you want people to know that they can book direct before they've even clicked on the link. - Bart Sobies

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Increase direct bookings with proven strategies.
  • Optimize your website for maximum direct bookings.
  • Build trust and credibility with social proof.
  • Ensure mobile responsiveness for easy direct bookings.
  • Harness the power of email marketing and data analytics.

My special guest is Bart Sobies.

Bart Sobies is the founder of iBooked Online, a company specializing in website optimization for direct bookings. With over four years of industry experience, Bart has honed his expertise in creating effective and visually appealing websites tailored to the accommodation sector, including hotels, motels, and short-term rentals. His deep understanding of property managers' challenges in establishing and maintaining an impactful online presence has positioned him as a trusted authority in the field. Bart's strategic focus on enhancing website functionality and design to drive direct bookings has resulted in tangible success for numerous properties across various scales. His commitment to remaining at the forefront of technological advancements underscores his dedication to providing property managers with cutting-edge solutions for increased direct bookings and improved online visibility.

Connect with Bart: 

https://www.instagram.com/ibooked.online/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-sobies/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/accommodationmanagers

More information: https://www.ibooked.online/

*Mention the DBS Podcast for a $200 savings on the set up of your website. Offer ends May 19th, 2024.* 

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction to Booking Success Podcast

00:01:47 - Introduction to iBooked Online

00:07:56 - First Impressions and Website Review

00:09:16 - Aligning Photography with Booking Seasons

00:11:20 - Optimizing Website Photography

00:12:45 - Creating Emotional Connection through Visuals

00:14:03 - Crafting Clear and Concise Descriptions

00:15:51 - Utilizing AI for Description Refinement

00:17:18 - Focusing on Guest Experience in Property Management

00:18:18 - Testing and Streamlining the Booking Process

00:38:19 - Planning and Execution

00:39:00 - Search Engine Optimization

00:41:20 - Image Optimization for SEO

00:42:24 - Reviewing Book Direct Strategy

00:47:57 - Special Offer for Listeners

FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at:

21 Oct 2024The Secret to Retaining Guests Even When You’re Fully Booked with Deborah Labi00:29:47

In the competitive world of short-term rentals, what if your greatest asset was actually your competition? It might sound counterintuitive, but sharing guests could be the key to increasing direct bookings, building stronger relationships, and creating a thriving community of trusted property managers.

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Deborah Labi, founder of "Have You Got?" and a visionary in the hospitality industry. With 18 years of experience managing properties in Australia, Deborah shares her unique perspective on collaboration over competition.


In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

  • How to initiate collaborations with other property managers in your area
  • The potential for positive reviews and increased word-of-mouth marketing
  • Strategies for making your direct booking approach “leak-proof”
  • The future of guest referrals and their role in the hospitality industry


Competition is gone. Because if you can help the guest, then you're all working together. - Deborah Labi


Deborah Labi is a dynamic entrepreneur and innovator who has spent 18 years shaping the vacation rental industry. As the founder of "Have You Got," she pioneered a monetized guest referral system and direct booking platform that revolutionizes how property managers connect with guests. Her commitment to excellence led her to establish "The Guest Inspector," providing comprehensive solutions for short-term rental businesses, while her creation of The Techsplained Series and Tech Minis serves as a valuable industry resource. Beyond hospitality, Deborah's entrepreneurial spirit has led her to venture into diverse fields including mental health advocacy, publishing creative works, and developing homewares products, demonstrating her passion for innovation across multiple industries.


Connect with Deborah and Have You Got:

Have You Got Manager’s Site: www.haveyougot.com

Learn how Have You Got works: www.thehaveyougot.network

Instagram: www.instagram.com/have.you.got


Are you ready to reimagine your approach to guest management and explore the untapped potential of collaboration? This episode offers valuable insights for short-term rental hosts and property managers looking to thrive in an ever-changing industry.


00:00:00 Turning Competition into Assets: The Power of Guest Referrals

00:01:20 Deborah Laby's Journey in Short-Term Rentals

00:03:23 The Power of Guest Referrals for Direct Bookings

00:05:31 Building Trust Through Guest Referrals

00:06:46 Collaboration Over Competition in Hospitality

00:10:38 Implementing a Guest Referral System

00:12:46 The Impact of Guest Referrals on Reviews and Word-of-Mouth

00:14:40 Introduction to "Have You Got?" Referral Network

00:19:55 The Future of Guest Referrals and "Have You Got?"

00:25:28 Getting Started with "Have You Got?"


—--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Join me and your fellow STR operators and property managers to master optimising the guest booking journey with Book Direct Pro. 


Mark your calendar: 4 STEPS TO MORE BOOKINGS MASTERCLASS


Thursday, October 31st, 2024

12 Jun 2023Innovative Hotel Strategies for Your Short-Term Rental with Craig Webb00:28:54

From aspiring police officer to successful hotel manager, Craig Webb's journey took an unexpected turn when he discovered the power of digital marketing. But what's even more surprising is how his experience in the hotel industry can revolutionise the short-term rental market. Are you ready to learn from his insightful strategies and take your business to the next level?

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Master dynamic pricing strategies to boost direct bookings.
  • Discover enticing amenities that drive guests to book directly.
  • Unveil intricate revenue management techniques for maximum savings and profit.
  • Achieve the perfect balance between OTA and direct bookings for cost-effective customer acquisition.
  • Cultivate loyal customers through thoughtful gestures and tailored offers.

With a remarkable 32-year career in hospitality, Craig Webb has seen it all. He spent 17 years managing two hotels in the picturesque Cotswolds, mastering every aspect of the industry from marketing to rate management. As someone who has successfully transitioned from traditional hotel management to digital marketing, Craig has a wealth of knowledge to offer short-term rental owners. He is passionate about helping others learn from his experiences and adapt their businesses to the ever-changing landscape of hospitality.

‘I was doing crazy things just to get eyes on my business and try to generate direct bookings, even back then.’ - Craig Webb

Connect with Craig: https://www.webbmarketing.info/

Free SEO guide for hospitality that you can do yourself: https://webb-marketing.lpages.co/seo-tips-for-hospitality/

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction,

00:02:27 - Craig's Journey,

00:08:03 - Blurring Lines,

00:10:03 - Rate Management,

00:14:48 - Hotels vs. Short Term Rentals,

00:17:22 - Reasons to Book Direct,

00:21:22 - Accounts and Cost Analysis,

00:23:57 - Direct Booking Success,

00:26:44 - SEO for Hospitality

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

31 Oct 2022What to write about in your email newsletters00:09:22

When I ask owners and managers of Holiday/Vacation/Short-term Rentals – What is holding you back from actually sending emails? The answer I usually hear is that they have no idea what to write about in an email. 

In this episode, I’ll help you get off the starting block and on to sending out emails to those on your list.

Topics discussed:

  • Speak to your ideal guest, not everyone on your list at once
  • Newsletters vs. personal emails
  • What tech is needed for email marketing
  • Don’t write directly in your email program
  • Create a template to follow every time
  • Don’t sell all the time 
  • Ideas on what to include in your email
  • What your ideal guest wants to know about
  • Newsletter examples


Watch my FREE masterclass on how to nail your ideal guest:

https://directbookingsuccess.com/idealguest/


Watch my email newsletter critique:

https://directbookingsuccess.com/newsletters


The email programme I use – ActiveCampaign:

https://ActiveCampaign.referralrock.com/l/16Z98PX6051/


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles



Join me in my Free Marketing Hub Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals/


28 Aug 2023Breaking Seasonality: Daniela Derin's Secrets to High Occupancy Rates with Digital Nomads in Marbella00:32:38

Discover how Daniela Derin, a holiday rental owner in Marbella, Spain, capitalized on the trend of digital nomads during the pandemic. From forming a unique community during lockdown to attracting remote workers with sunny balcony views, Daniela shares her secrets to success. But what happens when flights disappear and her business is left in a precarious position? Find out in this intriguing episode of the Direct Booking Success podcast.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Seize the pandemic as an avenue of growth, capitalizing on the surge in digital nomadism.
  • Realize the worth of a targeted booking strategy and personal website for building trust.
  • Maneuver through Airbnb cancellations effectively and enhance support for your guests.
  • Examine the progressive digital nomad phenomenon and its effects on remote work trends.
  • Move beyond seasonality, sustaining high-occupancy rates year-round in Marbella.

During the pandemic, our community thrived. We brought our in-person community online and built connections with digital nomads and leisure travelers alike. We sell a lifestyle, and people want to be a part of it. - Daniela Derin

Today's esteemed guest, Daniela Derin, brings to the table a blend of European charm and business acumen. Her journey took her from the beautiful landscapes of Italy to sunny Marbella, where she has been managing a thriving holiday rental business with her partner. With 90 apartments in their portfolio, Daniela's focus is on community-building and fulfilling the evolving needs of her guests. Recognizing the rise of remote working and digital nomads, she has proactively adapted her properties to cater to this new market segment. Always ahead of the curve, Daniela gets high praise for making her guests feel right at home, remarkably, no matter how far they are from their own.

Connect with Daniela:

Instagram: @marbella.holidays

LinkedIn: danieladerin

Facebook: Daniela Vincenzo Marbella & Skol Apartments Marbella

WhatsApp: +34649999867

Website: skolapartmentsmarbella.com

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:19 - Origins of the Business

00:06:11 - Shift to Online Platforms

00:09:27 - Building a Community

00:12:25 - Embracing Tourism

00:16:07 - Importance of Data Booking Strategy and Having Your Own Website

00:17:01 - Dealing with the Pandemic and Existing Guests

00:19:46 - The Rise of Digital Nomads

00:23:48 - Marbella's Success and the Benefits of Tourism

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass

18 Jul 2022Direct Booking Success Summit Overview00:08:57

It's happening again, after my crazy idea to hold an online summit in 2021 the Direct Booking Success Summit is back for a second year - 27th to the 29th of September 2022.

I was so grateful for the amazing responses from people around the world for the last summit, that I had to do it again, but this time even better; with bonus content on the 30th of September and the choice of two All-access Passes with even more goodies packed with value. I can’t wait to see you there!

Topics discussed

• Direct Booking Success Summit – 27th to the 29th of September 2022

• Three days of speaker presentations for achieving direct bookings through marketing

• This summit is completely online, which means you don't have to fly or drive anywhere

• Each presentation is free to view for 24hrs

• There will be live events happening in a special Facebook Group

• Two All-access Passes with bonus content and live sessions on the 30th September 2022

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/

Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). 

05 Sep 2022Pizza parties and sustainability with Bob Garner00:32:52

Put your hands up if you believe that sustainability should be a core part of your business. Now keep your hand up if you are already implementing sustainable actions.

How did you do?

This is just a snippet of my conversation with Bob Garner, another speaker at this year’s Direct Booking Success Summit, starting on the 27th of September.

Bob owns and operates Casal dei Fichi, six holiday apartments in Le Marque Italy. His other passion is that he spends a lot of time on environmental issues. Trying to persuade our industry to adopt sustainable practices and attract and retain guests who are looking to stay sustainably.

Topics discussed:

  • Environmentally-friendly holidays
  • 300 pizza parties
  • Sustainable rebuild in Italy
  • The impact of sustainability
  • Persuading the travel industry on sustainability
  • Net zero by 2050
  • Tourism declares a climate emergency
  • What direct booking success means to Bob

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/


CONNECT WITH Bob Gardner:

Website: https://www.casaldeifichi.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-garner-%E2%93%A5%F0%9F%8C%B3-75a73727/


Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). Get on the waitlist – https://www.directbookingsuccesssummit.com

29 Jul 2024How to Stay Ahead with AI and Automation in Short-term Rentals with Shiven Vinod Khera00:28:10

Imagine transforming your vacation rental business into a seamless, tech-driven hospitality powerhouse, captivating guests with personalized experiences that foster loyalty and ignite revenue growth. This vision is within reach, thanks to the pioneering strategies unveiled in this thought-provoking episode.

Shiven Vinod Khera, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Linkbase Technologies, takes us on a journey through the cutting edge of vacation rental management. Brace yourself as he unveils the game-changing potential of AI and automation to revolutionize guest interactions, streamline operations, and unlock untapped revenue streams.


One revelation that will leave you questioning the status quo? 


Guests typically allocate a staggering 70% of their vacation budget to activities and services beyond accommodation. Yet, this lucrative opportunity often goes untapped by property managers. Shiven deftly navigates this terrain, sharing strategic upselling techniques that allow you to effortlessly capture a share of this market, boosting your bottom line without compromising the guest experience.


In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Innovative ways to leverage AI for personalized guest communication and tailored upsell opportunities
  • Practical tips for automating access, streamlining check-in, and enhancing operational efficiency
  • Insights into the power of data-driven guest experiences and nurturing direct repeat bookings
  • Real-world examples of successful upsell strategies, from early check-in to unique local experiences
  • A special limited-time offer from Linkbase to help you kickstart your journey towards elevated hospitality


About Shiven Vinod Khera

Shiven Vinod Khera, the co-founder and CEO of Link based Direct Booking Success, brings a blend of entrepreneurial acumen and a passion for innovation to the vacation rental management space. Originally from New Delhi, India, Shiven's journey into the world of vacation rentals was a serendipitous one, stemming from a university project focused on IoT platforms. His forward-thinking approach, with an emphasis on automation, AI messaging, and tailored guest experiences, has positioned him as a trailblazer in redefining hospitality practices. Shiven's unique background and unwavering commitment to leveraging technology for property management make him a compelling figure for those seeking to optimize revenue streams and elevate guest experiences in the vacation rental industry.


Connect with Shiven & LinkBase:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_linkbase_/

Website: https://linkbase.ca/

Shiven’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shiven-vinod-khera-a05149120/


** EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR DIRECT BOOKING SUCCESS PODCAST LISTENERS **

LinkBase is waiving $600 boarding fee and offering 2 months of service for FREE! Don’t miss out on valuable upsell opportunities. This offer is valid until August 15, 2024. Claim this special deal and boost your 5-star reviews, and increase revenue with LinkBase. 


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:41 Introduction to Direct Booking Success Podcast

00:01:51 Shiven Vinod Khera's Journey and Recognition

00:04:38 Entrepreneurial Beginnings and Business Journey

00:06:40 Entry into the Vacation Rental Space

00:12:09 The Importance of Upselling in Property Management

00:12:55 Enhancing Guest Experience through Upsells

00:14:35 Key Upsell Opportunities for...

23 Sep 2024The Secret to Easier Marketing and More Bookings00:15:11

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the constant demands of marketing your short-term rental property? You're not alone. Many property managers find themselves caught in a whirlwind of tasks, from social media updates to email campaigns, often without seeing the desired results. It's time to break free from this cycle and discover a more effective approach to marketing your vacation rental.

In this episode, we explore how simplifying your marketing strategy can lead to more direct bookings, less stress, and increased success in the competitive world of short-term rentals.

"Marketing doesn't have to be a constant source of stress and overwhelm." - Jenn Boyles


Here's what you'll discover in this value-packed discussion:

  • Understand the common pitfalls of fragmented marketing approaches in the short-term rental industry
  • Learn how to create a cohesive marketing plan that connects all aspects of guest engagement
  • Discover tools and strategies to automate and simplify your marketing efforts
  • Get insights on using analytics to track performance and make data-driven decisions
  • Hear about the upcoming Direct Booking Success Summit and how it can transform your business


Plus, get a sneak peek into some of the key strategies I'll be covering at the summit, offering you a glimpse of the comprehensive roadmap to transform your marketing and grow your business.


Don't miss this opportunity to take control of your marketing and drive more direct bookings with less stress. Your path to simplified, effective marketing starts here!


The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 Simplifying Marketing for Short-Term Rentals: Boosting Direct Bookings

00:00:26 Welcome to the Direct Booking Success Podcast

00:00:49 The Overwhelm of Short-Term Rental Marketing

00:14:48 Introducing the Direct Booking Success Summit


—------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Direct Booking Success 2024 registration is finally OPEN! GET YOUR FREE TICKET TODAY.

In this 3-day FREE online summit, you’ll learn how to stop relying on OTAs like Airbnb and make more money with more control. Learn how to increase your direct bookings from industry experts and your fellow property managers from all over the world. 


This summit is completely free and online. Save your spot today: https://DBSsummit.com/


Work with Jenn to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money on it: https://directbookingsuccess.com/apply/


The ULTIMATE all-in-one marketing platform for short term rental is finally here! Sign up now and be the first to try it: https://bookdirectpro.com/


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join Jenn’s free Facebook

13 Nov 2023From Selling to Sharing: How to Create a Captivating Vacation Experience for Guests00:05:38

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of bookings and unhappy guests, despite your efforts to boost your short-term rental property, then you are not alone! You may be spending countless hours and resources on online marketing and promotions, only to see minimal results. Instead of a steady stream of bookings and delighted guests, you're left with vacant listings and negative reviews.

Remember, folks don't book a vacation rental, they book a vacation. Let's make that experience irresistible. - Jenn Boyles

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Boost your vacation rental bookings with these proven strategies.
  • Create an unforgettable guest experience by highlighting the best of your local area.
  • Discover how to captivate guests with compelling content about nearby attractions.
  • Learn how to use storytelling techniques to connect with your guests on a deeper level.
  • Forge mutually beneficial partnerships with local businesses to enhance the guest experience.
  • Unlock the secrets to boosting bookings and creating happier guests.
  • Elevate your vacation rental game by shifting your content to focus on the local area experience.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:13 - Importance of Delivering an Experience

00:02:44 - Practical Tips for Sharing Local Area

00:03:44 - Collaborating with Local Businesses

00:04:27 - Conclusion



Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclasswaitlist


22 Jan 2024Delivering 5-Star Airbnb Experiences for Guests with Mike Anderson00:29:34

Can property managers deliver a five-star guest experience and drive direct bookings? Mike Anderson from Operto Technologies discusses the importance of efficient housekeeping and maintenance operations. But what happens when a major maintenance issue arises during a Christmas booking? Tune in to find out.

Delivering five star guest experiences means five star reviews, which means more bookings. More bookings mean more opportunities for referrals and repeat guests. It becomes a flywheel that just produces a lot of success. - Mike Anderson

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Elevate guest satisfaction to enhance property performance.
  • Streamline management operations for increased efficiency and profitability.
  • Foster strong connections with property owners for mutual success.
  • Leverage specialized tools to optimize property management processes.
  • Enhance housekeeping and maintenance for seamless guest experiences.


My special guest this week is Mike Anderson.


Mike Anderson, the Director of Enablement at Operto Guest Technologies, brings over five years of experience working closely with property managers. With a deep understanding of the challenges and successes in the industry, Mike is a pro at helping property managers deliver exceptional guest experiences. His insights on systematizing processes, fostering teamwork, and maintaining healthy owner relations are invaluable for those looking to scale their accommodation businesses. As a trusted expert in hospitality automation platforms, Mike's advice is sure to provide property managers with the knowledge and strategies needed to enhance the guest experience and drive direct bookings.


CONNECT WITH MIKE:

https://operto.com/teams/

Get 25% off for the first 3 months with Operto: https://info.operto.com/dbss


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:36 - Role of Director of Enablement

00:02:34 - Importance of Great Guest Experiences

00:07:08 - Maintaining Healthy Owner Relations

00:10:27 - Choosing the Right Tools for Property Management

00:15:01 - Importance of Digital Checklists

00:17:14 - Importance of Maintenance Tracking

00:20:09 - Importance of Efficient Communication

00:22:22 - Streamlining Operations and Owner Relations

00:24:44 - What Direct Booking Success means to Mike


CONNECT WITH JENN:

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join Jenn’s free group – the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

09 Sep 2024Taking the Risk Out of Direct Bookings for your STR with Andrew Schorr00:29:41

Are you ready to take control of your short-term rental business and reduce your reliance on online travel agencies? Many hosts dream of increasing their direct bookings but feel apprehensive about the potential risks involved. In this episode, we explore how to successfully transition away from platforms like Airbnb while mitigating common concerns.

Join me as I sit down with Andrew Schorr, a key player in bringing Hospitable's innovative direct booking product to market. Andrew's journey in hospitality began in 2008 with a hotel concierge company in Beijing, and now he's at the forefront of revolutionizing direct bookings for vacation rental hosts.


The best damage protection is damage prevention. - Andrew Schorr


Here's what you'll discover in this value-packed discussion:

  • Uncover the four major concerns hosts face when transitioning to direct bookings and how to overcome them
  • Learn about cutting-edge guest vetting processes that ensure your property's safety and your peace of mind
  • Explore how to shield yourself from fraudulent chargebacks and protect your income stream
  • Understand the complexities of tax management for short-term rentals and how to simplify this process
  • Gain insights into $5 million damage protection policies that safeguard your property

About Andrew Schorr

Andrew Schorr is a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, known for founding a hotel concierge company in Beijing and later joining Hospitable in 2022. With a strong background in navigating the challenges of transitioning from reliance on online travel agents to embracing direct booking strategies, Andrew brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. His insights into mitigating risks associated with direct bookings and optimizing the guest journey offer valuable guidance for property managers and vacation rental hosts aiming to enhance their revenue through direct channels. Andrew's practical expertise and understanding of the industry dynamics position him as a reliable source for actionable strategies to achieve direct booking success.


** Take Advantage of the 14-day free trial + 25% off for 3 months when you sign up through this link:https://hospitable.com/dbspodcast **


The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 Introduction to Direct Booking Success Podcast

00:02:50 Andrew Shore's Journey in Hospitality

00:06:38 Common Fears and Misconceptions about Direct Bookings

00:13:09 Chargeback Protection and Guest Vetting

00:17:25 Damage Protection and Tax Management

00:22:46 Additional Features and Future Plans

00:26:38 Closing Remarks and Summit Information

—-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


JOIN ME FOR A FREE LIVE MASTERCLASS ON SEPTEMBER 12, 2024


In this hour long masterclass, I’ll be teaching you the 4 Steps to More Bookings.


Here’s what you’ll learn on this FREE Live Training:

  • Why expanding your guest base is crucial for scaling your vacation rental business
  • The secrets to not only capturing their interest but also gathering the crucial details that turn curious visitors into booked guests
  • How to craft compelling campaigns that resonate with new guests and drive them to book with you
  • The essential tool and templates that will streamline your marketing and supercharge your...
21 Aug 2023The Art of Storytelling: How Destination Marketing Can Take Your Vacation Rental to New Heights with Jodi Bourne00:31:20

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to constantly lower your prices and offer discounts to attract more guests to your vacation rental. But despite your efforts, you're still struggling to fill up your calendar and increase your direct bookings. The pain of constantly lowering your prices and not seeing the desired results can be disheartening. It's time to discover a more effective approach - destination marketing. By leveraging the power of destination marketing, you can differentiate your business, increase brand visibility, and ultimately achieve long-term success in the vacation rental industry.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Delve into the significance of destination marketing as a key differentiator in the vacation rental industry, enhancing revenue.
  • Decode the blueprint of successful destination marketing strategies, accelerating your brand's trajectory.
  • Leverage the influence of partnerships in unprecedented destination marketing results, strengthening your marketing armour.
  • Decipher how backlinks can skyrocket your SEO scores and website authority, revolutionizing your digital footprint.
  • Construct an impactful content map for triumphant destination marketing, carving your niche in the digital world.

Destination marketing is like building a spider web of content that Google loves. Create backlinks, share knowledge, and network with locals to attract and engage potential guests. - Jodi Bourne

Meet the dynamic Jodi Bourne! Displaying a deep love for hospitality, she's made it her mission to help vacation rental owners achieve their success goals. Hailing from scenic Austin, Texas, she brings over a decade's experience as a dedicated consultant and website designer. Specializing in vacation rentals, Jodi has carved a unique niche, and enjoys devising start-to-finish strategies that are as effective as they are insightful. A true traveller at heart, she has stayed in a staggering 67 vacation rentals (and still counting), providing her unmatched insights into what makes a property truly stand out.

Connect with Jodi:

Podcast: savvyhostpodcast.com

Website: jodibourne.com

instagram.com/heyjodibourne 

Facebook.com/heyjodibourne

Instagram Action Plan private audio course: jodibourne.com/instagram

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction to Destination Marketing

00:05:34 - Be Your Own Travel Blogger

00:08:59 - The Power of Personal Recommendations

00:11:40 - AI Can't Write Personal Stories

00:13:51 - The Power of Sharing and Collaboration

00:15:18 - Building Traffic and Following through Networking

00:17:19 - Leading Potential Guests and Showcasing Unique Property Features

00:20:18 - Leveraging Guest Posts for Backlinks

00:21:35 - Understanding the Importance of Backlinks and Website Authority

00:23:20 - Creating a Content Map for Destination Marketing

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine:

30 Oct 2023Breaking Barriers: Lorraine Woodward's Guide to Simple Changes for Accessible Vacations00:42:27

In a world filled with vacation rental listings, there was one woman who dared to redefine accessibility. What started as a personal journey for Lorraine Woodward became a mission to create lasting change. She discovered the unexpected twist in the vacation rental industry, where accessibility went far beyond the confines of wheelchair ramps. With her platform, she is inspiring hosts and owners to make simple changes that can transform the lives of countless individuals. But what kind of impact can these changes truly have? Stay tuned as we unravel the incredible story of Lorraine Woodward and the power of accessibility in vacation rentals.

Our goal is to provide a one-stop shop for finding accessible vacation rental properties, so that everyone, regardless of their disability, can have the opportunity to create lasting memories with their loved ones. - Lorraine Woodward

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Enhance the experience for all guests by improving accessibility in your vacation rental accommodations.
  • Increase bookings and attract a wider range of guests by providing descriptive filters for accessible accommodations.
  • Create a more welcoming environment for guests with cognitive disabilities by implementing simple changes in your vacation rentals.
  • Boost your rental's appeal and make a positive impact by prioritizing inclusivity in your vacation rental accommodations.
  • Stand out from the competition and cater to a growing market by offering vacation rentals that are accessible for everyone.

My special guest this week is Lorraine Woodward. Lorraine is the Creative Energy Officer and founder of Becoming rentABLE. With a lifelong passion for advocacy and a personal experience with muscular dystrophy, Lorraine has dedicated her career to improving accessibility in the hospitality industry. Her expertise shines through as she works tirelessly to educate and empower vacation rental owners and hosts on making simple changes for improved accessibility. Lorraine's unique perspective and commitment to inclusivity have made her a trailblazer in the field, and her platform, Becoming rentABLE, serves as a valuable resource for those looking to create positive and memorable experiences for guests with disabilities. Get ready to be inspired by Lorraine's story and gain valuable insights on how to make your vacation rental more accessible on this episode of the Direct Booking Success podcast.

Connect with Lorraine at: https://www.becomingrentable.com

Take the quiz: https://3pn8okhlw7d.typeform.com/to/QaUExF3R?typeform-source=www.becomingrentable.com

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:23 - Lorraine's Background

00:03:19 - Becoming Rentable Platform

00:06:09 - How Becoming Rentable Started

00:11:59 - Expanding Accessibility

00:16:26 - Airbnb's Filter Changes

00:17:33 - Expanding Accessibility with Other Booking Platforms

00:18:40 - Understanding the ADA and its Application

00:20:59 - Taking a Quiz for Accessibility Certification

00:25:26 - Expanding Accessibility to Cognitive Disabilities

00:33:33 - Accessibility in Hotels vs. Short-Term Rentals

00:35:03 - Making a Difference with Accessible Rentals

00:37:17 - The Importance of Recognizing Accessible Rentals

00:38:22 - Going Global with Accessible Rentals

00:39:57 - Creating Social Change through Direct Booking

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram:

15 Apr 2024How I Grew My Vacation Rental Business From Scratch Using Social Media with Emily Lethgo00:29:15

If you're feeling overwhelmed and struggling to consistently create engaging content for your property on social media, then you are not alone! It can be challenging to come up with fresh ideas and maintain a consistent posting schedule, but there are strategies to make it easier and more effective.

Direct booking success to me means creating something that is mine through branding my own website and successfully being able to host guests through my own efforts. -Emily Lethgo

My special guest is Emily Lethgo.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Maximize Your Bookings: Uncover strategies for increasing direct bookings and boosting revenue.
  • Amplify Your Reach: Learn how to leverage social media to effectively market your property and attract more guests.
  • Captivate Your Guests: Discover the secrets to creating compelling and engaging content for your short-term rentals.
  • Elevate Your Brand: Explore the benefits of personal branding in the hospitality industry and how it can set you apart from the competition.
  • Master Hashtag Power: Unlock the key tips for using hashtags on Instagram to enhance your property's visibility and engagement.


Emily Lethgo, a marketing enthusiast and property owner, shares her journey of entering the world of short-term rentals through social media. With a background in business, Emily's passion for branding and storytelling led her to successfully market her property, leveraging the power of content creation and community building. Her practical insights on using social media for property marketing and the benefits of personal branding in the hospitality industry provide valuable strategies for property owners seeking to enhance their online presence and drive direct bookings. Emily's unique perspective and experience offer actionable tips for creating engaging content and utilizing hashtags effectively on Instagram, making her a trusted voice in the realm of direct booking success.


Connect with Emily:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilylethgo/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emilylethgo

Website: https://www.hostwithemily.co/thecontentcollective

Use the code DBS to get the special $7 offer


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction and Getting Started in Hosting

00:03:45 - Building a Community and Collecting Emails

00:07:21 - Choosing Direct Bookings Over OTAs

00:09:53 - Importance of Content Creation and FOMO Marketing

00:13:57 - Leveraging User-Generated Content for Property Promotion

00:14:26 - Leveraging Social Media Content

00:15:11 - Building Interest and Consistency

00:16:47 - Tailoring Content for Different Platforms

00:21:12 - Maximizing Hashtags for Visibility


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub For Hospitality:

27 Feb 2023Referring guests with Melanie Kriel00:31:59

What is better than receiving a referral for a stay? Perhaps having a steady stream of referrals.

That's exactly what Melanie Kriel discovered, and it's revolutionising the hospitality industry in her area. With her well-executed referral system, she's not only increasing her bookings but providing exceptional hospitality to visitors in the area. 

We talk about:

  • Melanie’s background and how she got started with short-term rentals
  • The isolation of running your own business
  • Collaborating with other hosts and their resistance at first
  • How Melanie built a referral network for mutual benefit
  • How the network has become a community
  • Balancing the giving and taking among hosts
  • The future of her Awesome Host Referral Group
  • Advice for others wanting to do something similar
  • What direct booking success means to Melanie


Have you done one thing in your business that has made a difference? I want to hear from you! Let me know what you’ve done and you might be a guest on a future episode. Apply here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/onething


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


CONNECT WITH Melanie Kriel:

Website: https://www.beachfrontapartmentsinshakasrock.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thompsonsbeach/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beachfrontapartments

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/melanie-kriel-0383a614a

01 Jul 2024The Key to Turning Your Location into Direct Bookings (and Happy Canada Day!)00:15:02

Imagine being able to captivate guests from around the world with the sheer allure of your vacation rental's location. What if you could weave the unique charm, cultural richness, and natural wonders of your area into an irresistible narrative that resonates deeply with travelers seeking authentic experiences? This episode unveils the secrets to doing just that, empowering you to harness the power of your locale and skyrocket your direct bookings.

With practical insights from seasoned industry experts, you'll discover how to uncover the distinct selling points of your destination. From quirky local trivia and traditions to breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems, learn to craft a compelling story that transports potential guests to your doorstep before they even arrive. Prepare to be inspired by real-world examples of hosts and managers who have mastered the art of leveraging their location's appeal through engaging websites, captivating social media content, and the magic of storytelling.


It isn't about hot tubs or fire pits or a house that lives. This is about the unique experience your guests will have when they stay with you. - Jenn Boyles


In this podcast episode, I was joined by Annette Arsenault, owner and manager of Quayside Quidi Vidi Vacation Rental in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador and Kendra Badoe, vacation rental property manager at Suite Harmony in Ontario.


Connect with Annette Arsenault and Kendra Badoe:



Here's what you can expect to gain from this episode:

  • Strategies for identifying and showcasing the unique allure of your area
  • Tips for crafting an online presence that resonates with your target audience
  • Insights into leveraging local blogs, social media reels, and community-building tactics
  • The numerous benefits of cultivating direct bookings, including increased control, personalized guest interactions, and exclusive rewards for loyal customers


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Direct Booking Success

00:01:11 - The Canadian Advantage

00:05:21 - Leveraging Your Location

00:11:06 - Importance of Direct Bookings


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub: https://www.facebook.com/groups/strmarketinghub

25 Nov 2024Why Hiding Behind Your Logo Is Costing Your Vacation Rental Bookings00:10:06

Are you hiding behind your logo, leaving potential bookings on the table? In the world of short-term rentals, personal connection is the secret ingredient that can set you apart from the competition. This episode of the Direct Booking Success podcast explores why showing up matters and how to craft your story to resonate with ideal guests.

As your host, I share my own journey of discovery - how a simple Instagram story introducing myself led to an overwhelming response, increased bookings, and repeat guests. It's time to step out from behind the curtain and let your personality shine.


“Your story, your face, your authentic self. They’re your secret weapons for building trust and driving bookings.” - Jenn Boyles


Remember, it's about progress, not perfection. Your authentic self is your greatest asset in building connections and driving bookings.


Are you ready to step into the spotlight and transform your short-term rental business? Tune in to learn how showing up can lead to direct booking success.


The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 The Importance of Personal Connection in Short-Term Rentals

00:00:55 Why Showing Up Matters in Short-Term Rental Marketing

00:03:30 Crafting Your Story to Connect with Ideal Guests

00:05:15 Practical Steps to Increase Your Visibility as a Host

00:07:30 The Benefits of Showing Up and Taking Action


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Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


BLACK FRIDAY DEALS (NOVEMBER 25 TO NOVEMBER 29) 


This Black Friday, we’re offering 5 exclusive deals designed to supercharge your direct booking strategy, streamline your marketing, and attract more guests! 

From creating 3 months of content in 90 minutes to optimizing your website and social media profiles, each deal is tailored to help you level up your business in 2025. 

Don’t miss out – these limited-time offers are available for 24 hours only! Check out the full catalogue and grab these game-changing deals now at https://get.directbookingsuccess.com/blackfriday


—-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Work with Jenn to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money on it: https://directbookingsuccess.com/apply/


The ULTIMATE all-in-one marketing platform for short term rental is finally here! Check it out: https://bookdirectpro.com/


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub:

08 Aug 2022More than just accommodation with Di Hammill00:26:38

Do you like the idea of adding additional services to your rental offer or perhaps you want to provide some activities for your guests but aren’t sure what you can deliver? Then this episode is for you.

I spoke with Di Hammill, one of the Direct Booking Success Summit returning speakers from last year and she has a great presentation to share at this year’s summit so stay tuned to find out more.

Di is not only a glamping site owner and activity provider but a qualified teacher, a Permaculture designer, a natural beekeeper, an archery GB instructor, a blackbelt in TaeKwonDo, a survival medic, a NNAS navigation tutor plus a natural navigation tutor, and a Member of the Association of Foragers. Di is seen as one of the country's leading experts in simple, natural lifestyle and self-reliance and is often asked to comment in the media or speak at national shows about various aspects of her work.

Topics discussed:

  • The amount of last year’s bookings in comparison to this year
  • Advice for those thinking about starting their own glamping site
  • Don’t be frightened to delegate
  • Getting strategies and systems in place
  • How to add an experience to your holiday/vacation rental
  • Becoming more than just accommodation in this current competitive market
  • Keeping the personal touch with your guests
  • Empowering accommodation owners to look at their customer journey – from initial contact to glowing review!

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/


CONNECT WITH Di Hammill:

Website: https://www.wildharvest.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetipifolk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildharvest_tipis_and_courses/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wildharvestschool/


Join us at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022), head to https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/ to get on the waitlist.

27 May 2024Developing Guest Trust for Direct Bookings: A UK Host's Perspective with James Varley00:30:42

Does this sound familiar? You're struggling to make the switch from long-term to short-term rentals, and you've been told to rely solely on OTAs for bookings. But the pain of high commission fees and lack of control over your business has left you feeling frustrated and stuck. It's time to break free from the OTA dependency and take back control of your booking success. Let's explore how you can maximize direct bookings and increase guest trust for your vacation rentals.

I think education has never been more important in the short term rental world. We've got so many things across the world that we're dealing with, including regulation, including legislation that different countries are bringing in different tax changes, we've got new companies entering the space all the time, we've got different booking trends, so many different things that people need to be aware of. - James Varley


My special guest for this episode is James Varley.


James Varley, the founder of the Holiday Cottage Handbook, who has a rich background in property investment and a successful transition from long-term rentals to managing holiday lets in the UK. James's journey is a testament to his expertise in navigating the nuances of the short-term rental industry and building direct booking success. With a strong emphasis on sustainable business practices and a genuine passion for sharing knowledge, James has become a trusted voice in the industry. Through his various platforms, including a free downloadable ebook, an engaging blog, and a weekly podcast featuring industry experts, James is dedicated to providing valuable insights and support for property owners looking to maximize their direct bookings. His commitment to empowering others in the short-term rental space makes him a valuable ally for those seeking to thrive in the industry.


In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover the secrets to starting a successful short term rental business.
  • Learn how to smoothly transition from long term to short term rentals and maximize your profits.
  • Uncover the benefits of holiday lets in the UK and how they can elevate your rental income.
  • Master the art of building trust and securing more direct bookings for your vacation rentals.
  • Navigate the complex world of short term rental regulations in the UK with confidence.


Connect with James and Holiday Cottage Handbook

Website: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holidaycottagehandbook/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hchandbook/


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:30 - Getting into the Short Term Rentals World

00:05:43 - Building Relationships with Neighbors

00:08:37 - Core Mission of Holiday Cottage Handbook

00:10:46 - Importance of Education in Short Term Rentals

00:12:01 - A to Z Resource and Podcast Series

00:13:34 - Booking Trends and Content Development

00:14:48 - Defining the Industry

00:17:10 - Vacation Rentals vs. Short Term Rentals

00:18:40 - Common Pitfalls and Education

00:24:03 - Involvement in Regulation

00:27:47 - Importance of Booking Direct

00:28:07 - Convincing Guests to Book Direct

00:28:29 - Trust and Convenience in Booking

00:28:52 - Time and Effort in Direct Booking

00:29:23 - Connecting with James and Holiday Cottage Handbook 


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb:

22 Apr 2024Why You Should Stop Chasing 5-Star Reviews And Do This Instead with Damian Sheridan00:24:40

Discover the unexpected secret to skyrocketing your vacation rental bookings. Uncover the power of video reviews and the surprising impact they have on bookings. Find out how this simple strategy has increased bookings by up to 25%. 

Your biggest fans are the ones who've stayed there before. - Damian Sheridan

My special guest for this episode is Damian Sheridan.

Damian Sheridan, the mastermind behind the Book Direct Show and Scale, boasts an extensive background in the vacation rental realm, spanning over 20 years. His commitment to cultivating a sense of community within the industry has propelled property managers towards direct booking success, while his expertise in video reviews and guest relationship management has reshaped the way businesses approach their operations. With a genuine passion for sharing knowledge and facilitating partnerships, Damian's influence continues to shape the vacation rental landscape, making him a pivotal figure for those seeking to elevate their direct booking strategies and enhance guest experiences.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Maximize Direct Bookings: Uncover effective strategies for boosting direct bookings and increasing revenue for your vacation rental properties.
  • Build Strong Community Connections: Discover the significance of fostering a vibrant community within vacation rentals and its impact on guest satisfaction and retention.
  • Harness the Power of Video Reviews: Learn how to leverage video reviews to showcase your vacation rental properties and attract more guests through compelling visual storytelling.
  • Cultivate Positive Guest Relationships: Explore techniques for managing guest relationships to enhance guest experiences, drive positive reviews, and build loyalty.
  • Gain Insights from Book Direct Show and Scale: Tap into exclusive event insights to elevate your vacation rental business by learning from industry experts and successful case studies.

Connect with Damian:

https://bookdirect.show 

https://scalerentals.show

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Getting Started in the Industry

00:07:17 - Importance of Community

00:09:40 - Scale Show Expansion

00:11:08 - Video Reviews Strategy

00:14:26 - Encouraging Reviews

00:14:51 - The Pressure of Five-Star Reviews

00:16:34 - Building Relationships with Guests

00:17:46 - Handling Negative Reviews

00:19:33 - Strategic Video Reviews

00:21:37 - Direct Booking Success

FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub: https://www.facebook.com/groups/strmarketinghub


12 Feb 2024Stand Out or Miss Out: Crafting a Memorable Vacation Rental Brand to Drive Bookings with Carla Chicharro00:33:59

Does it sound familiar to struggle with standing out and driving direct bookings for your vacation rental properties? You might have been told to simply create a listing and wait for the bookings to pour in, only to find yourself lost in the sea of competition and struggling to attract guests. The frustration of not getting the results you hoped for while feeling like your property is getting lost in the crowd can be overwhelming. But what if there's a better way to make your property shine and secure those direct bookings?

Direct bookings really offer the ability to set your own rules, build your brand, potentially reduce a bit of commissions, but as well establish direct relationships and trust with your guests. - Carla Chicharro

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Build a standout brand for your vacation rental to attract more guests and increase bookings.
  • Stand out from your competition by creating a memorable and unique brand for your property.
  • Attract your ideal guests by understanding your target audience and crafting a brand that resonates with them.
  • Discover the essential elements that make up a strong and captivating brand for your vacation rental.
  • Harness the power of social media to effectively promote and elevate your vacation rental brand.

My special guest for this episode is Carla Chicharro.

Carla Chicharro, the head of marketing at Lodgify, brings over a decade of expertise in organic marketing, specializing in SEO, content marketing, and social media strategies. Her journey with Lodgify began seven years ago, where she played a fundamental role in shaping the company's inbound marketing approach, emphasizing the importance of SEO. Under her leadership, the marketing team has flourished, expanding to 25 members and catering to a global audience in multiple languages. Carla's profound understanding of the vacation rental landscape and the pivotal role of brand establishment in driving direct bookings offers property owners and managers invaluable insights to amplify their marketing efforts. Her wealth of experience and innovative approach make her a compelling voice in emphasizing the significance of crafting a distinctive brand for vacation rental properties.

Sign up for the Free Tech Series with Jenn Boyles and Carla Chicharro of Lodgify: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/direct-booking-tech-series/

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Real-life examples:

  • https://theseventhrayhouse.com/ Kristen & Michael from The Seventh Ray House, have a very spiritual name and we see that in their pictures that have been taken at sunset or with lots of sun rays. Or their brand colors which are orange and yellow.
  • https://www.instagram.com/trianglepalmssiargao Leslie and Alexie from Triangle Palms Siargao have worked with travel influencers and are getting direct bookings from their Instagram account
  • https://www.yellowblock.com/ Gordon from Yellowblock BNB literally mentions in his property description that his property is “purposely designed for large groups” and that “it comfortably sleeps 25, perfect for family reunions, Broadway Show groups, sports teams and more”. Plus, the reviews on his website yellowblock.com are from guests who traveled in big groups.
  • https://www.chaletshygge.com/ Kerri from Chalets Hygge focuses on...
22 May 2023From Likes to Bookings: 3-steps to direct bookings for your vacation rental through social media00:08:38

Are you tired of trying to drive direct bookings by engaging with random guests on social media, only to see no results? 

It's time to ditch the ineffective approach and focus on what really works. Join me in this episode and discover the power of engaging with perfect guests on social platforms, showcasing property benefits beyond just amenities, producing compelling content that captivates potential guests, and promoting a property by emphasizing advantages for guests. With our proven three-step strategy, you'll finally be able to harness the full potential of social media to boost your bookings and grow your short-term rental business.

‘It's not all about you. It's about the guest and what you can give them.’ - Jenn Boyles

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover the power of engaging with perfect guests on social platforms.
  • Learn the techniques of showcasing property benefits beyond just amenities.
  • Uncover the art of producing compelling content that captivates potential guests.
  • Master the skill of promoting a property by emphasizing advantages for guests.
  • Get a proven three-step strategy to drive direct bookings using social media.

Take the challenge

From Likes to Bookings: A 3-Part Social Media Challenge for Vacation Rental Managers: https://directbookingsuccess.com/fromlikestobookings


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


13 Feb 2023Going all in with Sara Sokol00:42:10

Imagine finding the one thing that can help your short-term rental business stand out from the rest? 

This week’s guest is Sara Sokol from Bath, Maine, USA where she has one vacation rental. She has taken her passion from her day job as a dog trainer to a new level by going all in with being not only pet-friendly but pet welcoming. Making this decision started her down a path of helping other property owners and managers who want to do the same.

We talk about:

  • The fear of niching down
  • Removing barriers to guests booking like pet fees
  • Opening up your mind to be more pet friendly
  • Using and creating Facebook groups that promote your niche
  • Helping others attract the right guests
  • Allowing guests to match with the right pet-friendly properties
  • What direct booking success means to Sara

Have you done one thing in your business that has made a difference to your direct bookings? I want to hear from you! Let me know what you’ve done and you might be a guest on a future episode. Apply here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/onething


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


CONNECT WITH Sara Sokol:

Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1043741576357003

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/dogswelcomenorthamerica

Dogs welcome website:https://www.dogs-welcome.net/

Website: https://www.littlewhitedogproperties.com/

Email addresses: Hello@littlewhitedogproperties.com and Hello@dogs-welcome.net


11 Jul 2022Direct Bookings aren’t for everyone00:09:39

Hello

and welcome to the very first episode of the Direct Booking Success Podcast.

Today’s episode is all about why Direct bookings can be the best way to take control of

your property and profits but not necessarily for everyone.

I am your host Jenn Boyles and I am so looking forward to sharing lots of stories

and providing lots of value to those who want to achieve more direct bookings, decrease

your dependency on OTAs whilst increasing your profits and control over your

business.

Whether you are an Airbnb host, short-term rental

owner, property manager, or investor, each week I will share business and

marketing strategies to help you build your own business. I will also bring you

the best in the industry to share their knowledge along with owners and managers

to talk about what they are doing to achieve their own direct booking success.

Topics discussed

  • What does direct booking success look to you?
  • Building your business on someone else's land
  • Airbnb True horror story
  • Don't put all your eggs in one basket, Diversify
  • Your own direct bookings are where you're going to make your business
  • Promote your business, not someone else's

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/

Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). 

01 May 2023Rise Above the Airbnb Bust: Tips to Keep Your Bookings Rolling in 202300:09:21

In the past few years, the media has been encouraging people to open short-term rentals and make a fortune, but the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century tells us this get rich quick tale may not have a happy ending. In this episode, I explain what it takes to keep your business afloat in a turbulent market and how to make sure you don't end up like the abandoned Klondike boomtowns. 

I talk about:

  • Is there an Airbnb bust? (let me know your thoughts in the comments section)
  • Comparing 2023 to the Klondike Gold Rush
  • The Gold Rush Boomtowns – from 500 to 30,000 people in only a few years
  • STR business was booming when the lockdowns opened up
  • What is happening now in 2023
  • Tips on how to get through the Airbnb bust and more direct bookings

Book your free 15 minute call with me here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/call

If you are struggling with direct bookings right now whether that is moving away from using the online travel agents like Airbnb or just getting more bookings in right now, then I’m here to help. 


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


03 Apr 2023Collecting email addresses with Arthur Colker of StayFi00:36:45

How can you collect all your guests’ email addresses, not just the booker?

Today I speak with Arthur Colker who founded StayFi, the innovative solution for short-term rental owners and managers who want to collect all of their guests’ email addresses and not solely rely on the online travel agencies like Airbnb.

We talk about:

  • How StayFi started
  • How hard it is collecting guest data for marketing purposes
  • The dangers of solely relying on online travel agencies
  • Learning from the giant hotel brands
  • Using your wifi network with StayFi to collect your guests’ data
  • Building your own brand
  • The software and hardware needed
  • Integrating your digital guidebook and review process
  • Using texts along with emails
  • Email marketing and your brand voice
  • Lean into your strengths
  • What direct booking success means to Arthur

SIGN UP TO STAYFI: (affiliate link) https://stayfi.com?lmref=drnUig

For 50% off your first 3 months, use the promo code: DBS50 

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


CONNECT WITH Arthur Colker

Website: https://stayfi.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StayFiSoftware/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stayfi/

05 Jun 2023Enhancing Your Vacation Rental's Guest Experience with Jacob Wedderburn-Day of Stasher00:30:01

Are you a vacation rental property manager who wants to take your guests' experiences to the next level with personalised and exceptional services?

Meet Jacob Wedderburn-Day, a savvy entrepreneur who co-founded Stasher, a brilliant solution to a common travel problem - luggage storage. With a strong background in economics and a passion for business, Jacob has used his expertise to create a platform that connects travelers with local businesses, allowing them to securely store their bags while exploring a new city. As a guest on Direct Booking Success, Jacob shares his insights on the importance of offering additional services to guests for a complete experience, and how vacation rental property managers can benefit from these services.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover the advantages of Stasher for property managers and direct booking to boost business.
  • Recognize the significance of providing extra services to guests, enhancing their overall experience.
  • Grasp the concept of the Peak-N Rule and how it helps strike a balance between guest satisfaction and practicality.
  • Learn about the perks of Stasher's insurance coverage and impact of its international growth.

‘As property managers, you probably put a lot of emphasis on that first interaction and then maybe under-appreciate how important the ending is.’ - Jacob Wedderburn-Day

Refer guests to Stasher and you’ll received a 20% commission or discount for every bag: https://stasher.com/partners

Connect with Jacob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-wedderburn-day-499258111/


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction,

00:01:02 - The Idea Behind Stasher,

00:04:32 - Stasher as an Ancillary Service for Vacation Rental Owners,

00:08:33 - Parental Support and the Need for Stasher,

00:11:07 - The Importance of the Last Impression,

00:13:47 - Stasher - The Luggage Storage Solution,

00:15:02 - Balancing Guest Experience and Rules,

00:18:47 - Stasher's Coverage and Insurance,

00:21:39 - The Stasher Process for Property Managers and Guests

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


26 Jun 2023Boost Your Short-Term Rental Business with Dave Cordner’s Expert Video Marketing Techniques00:29:20

Dave Cordner had always known the importance of video marketing for his short-term rental business in Belfast. But it was during the pandemic that he truly realized its power. As the tourism industry came to a standstill, Dave took it upon himself to showcase his beloved city through videos. He showcased local attractions, restaurants, and interviewed locals. What he didn't expect was the incredible response he received from viewers. His videos not only helped him secure direct bookings but also turned him into an unofficial ambassador of Belfast. Want to know how Dave's video marketing strategies can help your business thrive? Keep reading.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Find out how video marketing can boost your short-term rental bookings.
  • Grasp the importance of mastering five fundamental aspects to grow your short-term rental business.
  • Delve into the untapped potential of up-and-coming social media platforms for property managers.
  • Leverage local insights and skills to gain a competitive edge over online travel agencies.
  • Embrace a growth mindset to ensure long-term success in the short-term rental industry.

My special guest is Dave Cordner.

Say hello to Dave Cordner, a short-term rental expert with a knack for video marketing. Dave's enthusiasm for his city, Belfast, has translated into a thriving business - Central Belfast apartments. With over 70 properties under his wing, Dave has mastered the formula for marketing through informative and engaging video content. In addition to his property management success, Dave has also authored the Amazon best-seller Short Term Rental Revolution, which further demonstrates his expertise in the industry. Get ready to be inspired by his unique approach to showcasing the best his city has to offer.

Connect with Dave:

Website: https://davecordner.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBRTOpYXoi3dhCXoNRU8JjQ

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@centralbelfast?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airbnbcoach?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_airbnbcoach/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centralbelfastapartments/

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:06:26 - Using Video to Promote Your Local Area

00:09:56 - Becoming a Local Expert and Building Trust

00:11:31 - Direct Bookings and Driving Revenue

00:12:37 - The Power of Experiential Videos

00:14:05 - Starting with Video Content

00:17:30 - TikTok for Short Term Rentals

00:19:18 - The Short Term Rental Revolution Book

00:23:53 - Entrepreneurial Mindset for Short Term Rentals

00:27:32 - Best Guinness in Belfast and Short Term Rental Managers

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group:

12 Aug 2024My Favourite Ways to Save Time in Vacation Rental Marketing00:15:42

As a vacation rental property manager, your days are a whirlwind of tasks – from guest check-ins and maintenance issues to a never-ending stream of emails. It's no wonder marketing often falls by the wayside, even though you know it's crucial for driving those coveted direct bookings. You've tried creating content, but the hours spent crafting clever captions and curating visuals rarely translate into meaningful engagement or bookings. The constant juggling act leaves you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and burnt out.

But what if you could streamline your marketing efforts, freeing up precious time while still boosting your direct booking numbers? In this insightful episode of the Direct Booking Success podcast, host Jenn Boyles shares her favorite powerful time-saving techniques that will transform how you approach marketing for your vacation rental business.

The key to Direct Booking Successful marketing is not about working harder, but working smarter. - Jenn Boyles

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Reclaim control of your schedule through effective time blocking and project management tools. 
  • Maximize your content’s impact by repurposing and refreshing existing materials. 
  • Embrace simplicity with captivating visuals and compelling captions that resonate with guests.
  • Follow a proven, step-by-step framework for direct booking success, eliminating guesswork. 

Hear from Ben, a lighthouse property owner, who doubled her bookings and profits by implementing these strategies. Ben shares her journey from an "expensive hobby" to a thriving, profitable business through the Direct Booking Success program.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode offers actionable insights to help you work smarter, not harder, and achieve the direct booking success you deserve.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 Struggling with Marketing as a Vacation Rental Property Manager

00:01:17 Introduction to Direct Booking Success Podcast

00:01:40 Time Management Techniques for Efficient Marketing

00:03:42 Reusing and Refreshing Content

00:07:50 Simplicity in Content Creation

00:11:05 Following a Proven Marketing Process

The Ultimate All-in-One Marketing Platform for Short-term Rentals is finally HERE! Be the first to try Book Direct Pro. Sign up now and be the first to try it: https://bookdirectpro.com/

Direct Booking Success is back for 2024 and this year has gotten even BETTER! 

In this 3-day FREE virtual and global summit, you’ll learn how to stop relying on OTAs like Airbnb and make more money with more control. Learn how to increase your direct bookings from industry experts and your fellow property managers. 

This summit is completely FREE, Virtual and Global, reserve your seats today: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Work with Jenn and have one-on-one coaching to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money on it: https://directbookingsuccess.com/apply/


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Show notes are available at:...

05 Dec 2022Perfecting your direct booking website00:08:53

If you were already on the direct booking journey, then you know how important having somewhere for your guests to ‘book direct’ with you is.

If you are just starting, let me tell you straight up, you need your own website!

Topics discussed:

  •  Guests need to be able to ‘book direct’ on your website
  •  Stop putting obstacles in front of guests
  • Not every booking will do
  • Using your marketing to get bookings from your ideal guest
  • What not to do in your marketing
  • Your business – your rules
  • Look at how Airbnb guides the guest to book
  • KISS - Keep it simple stupid!
  • Ask a friend to go and make a booking on your site for feedback on the experience
  • Your website should never be ‘done’


FREE EVENT:

Ask me anything about… your direct booking website 

Friday 9th December 2022 at 2pm GMT / 9am EST

Live in the free Marketing Hub Facebook Group

Join us here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals



CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


03 Jul 2023Tracey Northcott's Guide to Elevating Your Guest Experience for Rental Success00:35:12

Have you heard these myths about rental success and the guest experience?

Myth #1: As long as the place is clean, guests will be happy.

Myth #2: The guest experience doesn't matter, as long as you have a good location.

Myth #3: You don't need to go above and beyond for guests, they just want a place to sleep.

But here's the truth: a positive guest experience is essential for rental success. From first impressions to little touches that make guests feel valued, it all adds up to positive reviews, repeat visitors, and ultimately, increased rental income. Tracey Northcott is here to share her expertise on how to elevate the guest experience and maximize your rental potential.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Explore the secrets behind triumph in the hospitality universe.
  • Unlock the power of impactful branding for transient rentals.
  • Delve into the crucial connection between guest experience and rental victory.
  • Understand the vital role of a supportive community for expansion and guidance.
  • Acquire fundamental techniques to stay agile amidst market fluctuations.

My special guest is Tracey Northcott.

Meet Tracey Northcott, a successful short-term rental host with over a decade of experience in the industry. Originally from Australia, Tracey has been living in Japan for over 20 years, where she has had the opportunity to build a thriving rental business that focuses on providing unique and memorable hospitality services. As a firm believer in the value of exceptional guest experiences, Tracey has managed to attract a loyal following of guests who come back year after year, making her business stronger even in these uncertain times. Tracey's passion for people and curiosity about different cultures enable her to create truly unforgettable experiences for her guests.

I just really like people as well, so I'm always curious about how people live and what they're interested in. Taking care of people where they sleep is actually a real privilege. - Tracey Northcott

Connect with Tracey:

Website: https://www.tracey-northcott.com

Website: https://www.tokyofamilystays.com

Instagram: @traceynorthcottconsulting

Instagram @tokyofamilystays

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:03:14 - Rental Business Model

00:07:40 - Preparing for the 2020 Olympics

00:10:28 - Overcoming Challenges

00:12:16 - Local Experience

00:16:38 - Building a Vision and Mission Statement

00:19:00 - Adapting to Change and Making Wise Investments

00:22:26 - Building Relationships and Branding

00:25:52 - Solving Problems and Providing a Full Experience

00:29:20 - Success in Hospitality

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine:

14 Nov 2022Why now is the time to get off the Airbnb rollercoaster!00:08:15

How many of your bookings come through an OTA (an online travel agent like Airbnb or booking.com or VRBO)?

Perhaps you are only listed on one of them, or maybe you're listed on all of them.

In this episode, I talk about why you should get off the OTA rollercoaster and concentrate on your own Direct Booking Success.

Topics discussed:

  • Stop putting all of your eggs in one basket
  • OTA listings get shut down 
  • Guest complaints can cancel your bookings overnight
  • Guests can take offense to anything
  • Focus on your own direct bookings instead
  • It takes hard work to build your business
  • There is nothing passive about this industry
  • How to get started

Are you ready to build your business on your own ground with your own rules? 

Join me for a free, live interactive masterclass on Wednesday 16 November 2022

Sign up here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass/


Join me for a free Ask me anything… about using social media

Friday 11 November 2022 at 2pm GMT

Live in the Marketing Hub Facebook group

Join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals/


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

01 Jan 2024Direct Booking 101: How to Achieve Daily Direct Stays for your Vacation Rental00:08:21

Are you tired of unpredictable booking levels? In this episode, I reveal my secrets to getting direct bookings every day while diversifying your channels. But what happens when one of your main channels suddenly disappears? Tune in to find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover the power of direct bookings and channel diversification to optimize your hospitality business.
  • Uncover how social media can skyrocket your brand's presence and drive engagement.
  • Learn to craft content that resonates with your target audience by addressing their needs and offering solutions.
  • Realize the significance of focusing on concrete booking numbers rather than being swayed by vanity metrics.
  • Grasp the importance of using persuasive call-to-action techniques to inspire guests to book direct stays.

Don't wait until your makeup is perfect or your hair is done. Get your brand out there. Tell everyone about it. Create brand awareness. - Jenn Boyles

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

28 Nov 2022From Host to Manager: The mindset shift needed00:10:34

Are you an Airbnb Host or a Property Manager? 

In this episode I speak about going from being a host to a professional property manager and why this is such an important change needed in your mindset.

Topics discussed:

  • Setting goals at the start of the year
  • Hospitality is a 24/7 business
  • Running a vacation rental/holiday let is hard work
  • Booking trends of the past few years
  • You are the CEO of your business
  • What I’ve heard some ‘professional managers’ say
  • What makes you a professional property manager
  • How I started with Airbnb and turned in a property manager
  • The pandemic changed my life
  • I love hospitality and helping others
  • Let me know your story – connect on Instagram

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles



17 Jul 2023Putting Your Property on the Map: Listing Unique Accommodations on Niche Sites with Alex Wilson00:24:06

From vintage trailers to treehouses, Alex Wilson and Dawn Crawford's love for unique accommodations led them on a journey they never imagined. Host Unusual was born, offering a platform for travellers seeking an unforgettable experience. But their story doesn't end there. As they pushed boundaries, Host Unusual's listings expanded to include everything from bunkers to UFOs, and even a giant boot! Property owners now have a targeted audience, while travellers discover a world of extraordinary experiences. Who knows where their journey will take them next? One thing's for sure, Host Unusual is redefining the way we travel.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Delve into the advantages of featuring distinctive properties on specialized websites.
  • Gain exclusive knowledge about the evaluation process for properties on Host Unusual.
  • Understand how to leverage niche platforms for targeted audience exposure.
  • Comprehend the crucial role experiential travel plays in the evolving travel sector.
  • Recognize the crucial contributions of direct bookings to property owners' bottom line.

We're all about promoting direct bookings, which seems like a good fit to be here. - Alex Wilson

Say hello to Alex Wilson, travel aficionado and co-founder of the groundbreaking platform Host Unusual. Alex's expertise in the world of marketing and his keen understanding of the shifting landscape of the travel industry culminated in the creation of this niche listing site that showcases rare and unusual places to stay. Upholding the values of promoting direct bookings, Alex has been instrumental in connecting property owners with discerning travellers looking for incredible and memorable experiences.


Connect with Alex:

Hostunusual.com

https://www.instagram.com/hostunusual

https://www.facebook.com/hostunusual

https://www.linkedin.com/company/host-unusual


Host Unusual has a new member joining offer so I'd urge any owners with an unusual property to get in touch to discuss further.


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:03:18 - Unusual Properties

00:08:45 - Niche Listing Sites

00:11:46 - Worldwide Properties

00:14:43 - Hooking People's Attention

00:15:03 - Varied Content

00:16:38 - Partnership with Property Owners

00:17:24 - 1500 Properties and Counting

0:18:25 - Pandemic and Staycation Boom


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals


Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass


23 Jan 2023How to stand out in 202300:10:12

In this episode of the Direct Booking Success podcast, I talk about the term "passive income" and its implications for those in the hospitality industry. Many people who initially bought into the idea of passive income from property rentals now realise the amount of work involved and that the money does not come in passively. I also offer advice on how to stand out in the industry, including not promoting being an Airbnb Superhost and investing in overall branding to connect with guests, create a loyal customer base, and stand out from the competition.

We talk about:

  • Passive income and how it is marketed to property industry people.
  • People who initially bought into the idea of passive income from property are now waking up to the reality of the work involved.
  • There may be a surplus of short-term rental properties now, but this could change.
  • Promoting being an Airbnb Superhost is not beneficial and is actually free marketing for Airbnb.
  • The importance of investing in branding to stand out in the competitive industry.
  • Branding is not just about having a logo but a business's overall impression and personality.
  • The questions to answer in order to create your own brand strategy.
  • That your brand will evolve over time.
  • How to create your mission statement using the formula: [Business] helps [who] do [what] by [how].

I’m looking for owners and managers who have done something in their business (marketing or hospitality) that has made a difference to their direct bookings. Do you want to be a guest on a future episode? Apply here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/onething


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


29 Aug 2022Failure, success and hospitality with Yvonne Halling00:44:46

Ever thought of what it would be like to start your own B&B business in a foreign country, virtually on your own with children? That is what today’s guest, Yvonne Halling did. And that’s only the start of her amazing story of reinvention.

 Yvonne Halling is a speaker at this year's Direct Booking Success summit this September. Yvonne's jaw-dropping story will have you hooked from start to finish. Plus, she has some fantastic nuggets of advice on how to fill your rooms throughout the year.

Topics discussed

  • Creating a B&B business as a mother, wife and British citizen in France
  • Attracting guests before the internet
  • When the hobby became a business
  • Dealing with a home fire and family depression
  • Personal development is essential in the direct booking business
  • A direct bookings business is primarily mindset
  • Creating the type of experiences that set us apart from hotels
  • What Yvonne will be speaking on at this year’s summit
  • What direct booking success means to Yvonne

CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/


CONNECT WITH Yvonne Halling:

Website: https://www.bedandbreakfastcoach.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YvonneHallingTransformationalBusinessCoach

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoachingforBedandBreakfastOwners/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonnehalling/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bedandbreakfastcoach/


Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). Get on the waitlist – https://www.directbookingsuccesssummit.com

19 Aug 2024How to use AI in your Vacation Rentals Marketing without Losing your Human Touch with Megan Castor00:29:34

Are you struggling to create authentic, engaging content for your vacation rental business? 

It's frustrating when your posts lack personality and fail to connect with your audience. But what if I told you there's a way to streamline your content creation process without losing that essential human touch?


In this episode of the Direct Booking Success podcast, I sit down with Megan Castor, a former teacher turned copywriter who specializes in creating compelling content for vacation rental brands. We dive deep into the world of AI-assisted content creation, exploring how tools like ChatGPT can be leveraged effectively in your marketing strategy.


Your whole business is centered around being genuine and authentic and building connections with your guests and your owners. - Megan Castor


In this episode, you will be able to discover:

  • The pitfalls of relying too heavily on AI for content creation
  • How to use AI as a brainstorming tool to spark creativity
  • Tips for maintaining your brand's unique voice when using AI
  • Strategies for editing and refining AI-generated content
  • The importance of human expertise in content creation


About Megan Castor

Megan Castor, a former middle school teacher turned copywriter, brings a unique blend of patience and flexibility from her teaching background to her approach in copywriting. With a passion for travel and hospitality, Megan seamlessly intertwines her love for writing with her expertise in creating compelling content for vacation rental brands. Her transition from teaching to copywriting showcases her ability to adapt and communicate effectively, making her an invaluable resource in the industry. Megan's insights into using AI for content creation and the importance of maintaining authenticity in vacation rental marketing provide invaluable tips for property owners and managers looking to enhance their content strategies.


Connect with Megan: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevacationrentalcopywriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megancastor/

FREE Guide to using AI for your vacation rental marketing. Know more information here: www.megancastoragency.com


The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Creating Authentic Content for Vacation Rentals

00:01:26 - Transition from Teaching to Copywriting

00:04:16 - Influence of Teaching Background on Copywriting

00:06:19 - Challenges of Using AI in Content Creation

00:09:09 - Effective Use of AI Tools in Content Creation

00:09:53 - Maximizing AI Output with Detailed Information

00:11:30 - Overcoming Fear of AI with Personalization

00:12:35 - Efficiency through Personalization and Background Info

00:13:53 - Starting with Audience Research for Effective Content Creation

00:16:39 - Human Oversight and Context in AI Content Generation

00:19:50 - The Importance of Editing AI-Generated Content

00:22:31 - AI Does Not Replace Humans

00:23:27 - Writing Headlines with AI Assistance

00:24:10 - Services for Vacation Rental Industry

00:29:23 - Upcoming Direct Booking Success Summit

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Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Direct Booking Success is back for 2024 and this year has gotten...

12 Sep 2022Of mice and being 95% book direct with Heather Bayer00:34:08

Today we speak with serial entrepreneur Heather Bayer who has been immersed in the vacation rental industry for over 25 years. In this episode, Heather shares her story and also what is coming up for her since selling her 95% book direct, 20-year-old company in Canada earlier this year.

Hear how the idea was born for her to leave the UK and head to Cottage Country in Ontario, Canada. And how the direct booking landscape looked in 2003, what’s changed and what the future may hold. Heather also shares another terrible Airbnb shut down story and gives some top reasons to take direct bookings.

Topics discussed:

  • The other residents in the cottage
  • Buying our first property six weeks after the idea
  • Marketing Ontario cottages to the UK
  • Started with direct bookings as there was nothing else in 2003
  • Then came HomeAway, Trip Advisor and finally Airbnb
  • Selling a 95% book direct company in 2022 and it’s future
  • Another Airbnb shut down story
  • Top reasons to take direct bookings
  • What Direct Booking Success means to Heather



CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/


CONNECT WITH Heather Bayer:

Websites: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/vacation-rental-success/id599200191

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cottageguru/?hl=en

Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/business.of.str.property.management

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bayer-8773986/?originalSubdomain=ca


Join me at the virtual Direct Booking Success Summit (27-29 September 2022). Get on the waitlist – https://www.directbookingsuccesssummit.com

04 Dec 2023From Host to Hospitality Brand: Mark Winship's Guide to Personalizing the Guest Experience00:39:41

In a world of cookie-cutter accommodations, one man dared to defy the norm and revolutionize the short-term rental industry. Meet Mark Winship, whose journey took an unexpected turn on the road to success. As he expanded his portfolio to include luxury holiday let properties, Mark faced a daunting challenge - how to maintain a personalized guest experience at scale. Little did he know, the solution he would discover would not only elevate his business but also leave a lasting impact on the industry. Stay tuned as we unravel the twist in Mark's story and uncover the secret to his remarkable achievement...

Our goal is to create authentic and memorable experiences for our guests, so they associate our brand with a truly fantastic holiday. - Mark Winship

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Maximize direct booking revenue with proven strategies.
  • Create unforgettable guest experiences through personalized touches.
  • Foster trust and loyalty with guests in the hospitality industry.
  • Elevate guest experiences by tapping into local suppliers.
  • Streamline operations for sustainable business growth.

Mark Winship is the founder of Gateway Accommodation and Stay New Forest. With a passion for providing personalized guest experiences, Mark and his wife Caroline have successfully grown their portfolio of short-term rentals to 59 units, soon to be 61. Despite the geographical and target market splits, Mark is committed to maintaining a high level of personalization for every guest. From offering a guest portal with all the information they need at their fingertips to sending a personalized welcome video, Mark ensures that guests feel valued and taken care of. With his focus on systemizing the personalization process and incentivizing his team to prioritize guest satisfaction, Mark has built a strong reputation for delivering a premium guest experience. Join us as Mark shares his strategies for building trust and personalizing the guest experience at scale in the short-term rental industry.

Connect with Mark:

On Instagram: @coaching.winners, @gateway accommodation, @staynewforest

https://staynewforest.info/

https://shows.acast.com/secret-serviced-podcast



The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction


00:00:36 - Background and Brands


00:03:40 - Personalization at Scale


00:09:03 - Supporting the Guest Experience


00:11:10 - Building Connection with Guests


00:15:50 - Creating Authentic Experiences


00:18:00 - The Shift towards Experiences


00:20:41 - Driving Direct Bookings


00:24:49 - Building Trust and Convert Bookings


00:25:52 - Trust in OTAs


00:31:23 - Personalizing the Guest Experience


00:32:39 - Systemizing Personalization


00:33:53 - Direct Booking Success


00:35:01 - Connecting with Mark


00:37:24 - Real-Life Perspective on Short-Term Rental Hosting


Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group:...

10 Apr 2023My must attend short-term rental events in 202300:11:29

Have you ever been to an industry conference?

This year there are even more than ever before! And no matter where you are in the world, there will probably be one near you.

In this episode of the Direct Booking Success Podcast, I give you my list of the must attend short-term rental events in 2023. And don’t worry, one requires no travel at all!

I talk about:

  • Our sector of the hospitality industry can be a very lonely place
  • The Direct Booking Success Summit is back for its third year and is the only free marketing and hospitality educational online summit 
  • It is hard to leave businesses to travel to the various conferences in person
  • Meeting others and learning new ideas is invaluable
  • My list of the must attend short-term rental events in 2023

My list of must attend short-term rental events in 2023:

Short Stay Summit

London, UK

27 April 2023 

shortstaysummit.org


North West Vacation Rental Professionals 2023 Annual Conference

Reno, Nevada, USA

25-27 April 2023

Nwvrp.org


Short Stay Week

Barcelona, Spain

15-19 May 2023

Shortstayweek.com


Skift Short Term Rental Summit

New York, USA

7 June 2023

Live.shift.com 


No Vacancy Hotel and Accommodation Industry Expo 

Sydney, Australia

31 August - 1 September 2023

Novacancy.com.au 


The Glamping Show

Coventry, England

14-16 September 2023

Theglampingshow.com 


Direct Booking Success Summit

online

3-5 October 2023

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


VRMA International Conference

Orlando, Florida

22-25 October 2023

Vrma.org 


Vacation Rental World Summit

Barcelona, Spain

3-4 November 2023

Vacationrentalworldsummit.com


CONNECT WITH Jenn Boyles:

Website: https://directbookingsuccess.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directbookingsuccess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023:

https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/


04 Nov 20243 Types of Marketing Advice You Can Totally Ignore00:11:45

Are you investing time and resources into marketing your vacation rental, but still not seeing the direct bookings you desire? 

It's possible you've fallen for some common marketing myths that are holding you back from genuine growth. In this eye-opening episode, I'm exposing the top three marketing misconceptions that might be stunting your progress and revealing what truly works to attract guests and boost your direct bookings.


In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

  • Why consistency alone isn’t enough to grow your business and what you should focus on instead
  • The truth about creating great content and why it’s no longer sufficient in today’s competitive market
  • Why chasing a larger audience might be counterproductive and what to prioritize for better results


“It’s not about doing more, but doing what actually matters to bring in those valuable direct bookings.” - Jenn Boyles


By shifting away from these outdated myths and embracing strategies that prioritize relationship-building, you'll be better equipped to thrive in the competitive vacation rental market. It's time to take control of your marketing and watch those direct bookings soar!


Ready to revolutionize your vacation rental marketing strategy? Listen now to gain insights that will help you attract more direct bookings and build a thriving business on your own terms.


The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 Debunking Top 3 Marketing Myths for Direct Bookings

00:00:57 Myth 1: Consistency Alone Drives Business Growth

00:04:15 Myth 2: Great Content Guarantees Bookings

00:07:20 Myth 3: Larger Audience Equals More Bookings

00:11:27 Recap and Next Episode Preview


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Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/


Work with Jenn to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money on it: https://directbookingsuccess.com/apply/


The ULTIMATE all-in-one marketing platform for short term rental is finally here! Check it out: https://bookdirectpro.com/


FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/


Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess


Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub: https://www.facebook.com/groups/strmarketinghub


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