This LinkedIn post from short-term rental investor and manager Taylor Jones sparked a massive debate in the industry. Taylor suggested that every property owner should feature a woman in their Airbnb profile. His reasoning? Both men and women prefer to book with a female host. ‘When a traveller is deciding between two close listings, all the small details matter,’ he said.
The comments section of the post was lively to say the least. While some agreed with the sentiment, many regarded the action as ‘catfishing’.
Madeleine Parkin, from Abode Worldwide, said: “Is this not catfishing? I think lying about who’s behind your account has the potential to cause a lot of reputational damage.”
Steve Schwab, Founder and CEO at Casago, agreed with Madeleine: “There is a word for that…catfishing! Be your authentic self. That is all you can offer the world.”
Alex Husner, who works with several brands in the sector and co-presents Alex and Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals, said: “It we expect our guests to jump through hoops to verify their identity, I think it’s only fair we are also upfront with them about who we are. If the lady pictured works in the business and it feasibly makes sense to show her picture over yours, then do it. But if it’s a random person or someone that has zero to do with the process, then yes, that’s catfishing.”
Michael Merrill said: “I go with the husband/wife combo for a similar reason. She is much more likeable than me and her smile so much more welcoming. I like to think it also positions us more as a small family business who also enjoy travels like our guest.
“One more consideration – women book vacation rentals more than men. That said, I don’t personally pay attention if [the host] is a man or woman. It’s all about the reviews for me.”
Annie Holcombe, meanwhile, had a slightly different point of view. "Or a dog," she said. "I'd rather book with a dog all day long. The only flaw in this is if you aren't a woman or [don't] have a woman in your business. Don't lie, that's not a good look."
Let us know what you think by taking part in our poll!
Is 'catfishing' your guests ever OK?
Yes, if it gets me more bookings.
I'm on the fence about this.
Hell no, it's creepy!
Comments