#127. My worst guest ever - and what lessons he taught me.
After more than 2,500 guests, 18,500 guest nights and over ten years of hosting, I finally encountered a guest I genuinely didn't like.If you're thinking this episode is going to put you off becoming an Airbnb host... think again.In fact, quite the opposite.This story reinforced just how rare serious incidents really are, how supportive Airbnb and the police can be when something does go wrong, and perhaps most importantly, how our own reactions can either calm a situation or make it worse.In this episode I share, in full, the only hosting experience that has ever genuinely made me feel uncomfortable—and the valuable lessons it taught me about leadership, people skills and keeping everyone safe.In this episode you'll discover:Why this incident was so unusual after more than a decade of hosting.The simple precaution I already had in place that proved invaluable.Why my live-in helper did exactly the right thing.How quickly the local police responded and why their calm professionalism impressed me.The advice Airbnb gave when the guest disappeared after check-out.The mistake I made when confronting the guest—and what I'd do differently today.Why I've now removed same-day bookings from all my listings.The practical step I took to ensure this guest can never book with me again.Why one unpleasant guest should never put you off hosting.My Superhost Secret"In difficult situations, your priority isn't to win the argument. It's to guide everyone safely to the best possible outcome."Sometimes the greatest act of leadership isn't proving you're right—it's keeping everyone safe.Mentioned in this episodeAirbnb Superhost SupportThe importance of smart locks and sensible safety systemsManaging same-day bookingsWriting honest, professional guest reviewsBlocking unsuitable guests from future bookingsHere's how to block a guestIf you ever find yourself in a similar situation, open your conversation with the guest on Airbnb, click the three dots beside one of their messages, select Report this message, choose a reason, and then you'll be given the option to Block this person.Here's how to do it, from a message thread with the guest:Go to Messages on airbnb.com and open your conversation with that guest.Find the message you want to report and click the three dots next to it (or click Report near their profile picture, depending on your view).Click Report this message, choose your reason, and hit Ok.You'll then be given the option to Block this person — select it and confirm Block.Once blocked, they won't be able to send you messages, book your listing, or accept a reservation request from you. This also means they'll no longer be able to see your profile or listings when browsing.Thinking about becoming a host?If you've ever wondered whether Airbnb hosting could work for you—but have concerns about having strangers in your home—I'd love to invite you to one of my free live webinars.I'll show you the practical systems, people skills and mindset that have helped me welcome thousands of guests safely, earn a consistent income from my own home and achieve Superhost status year after year.Register using the Zoom link below.📸 Instagram: @SuperhostNeil⭐ If you've enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who has a spare room, an annexe or an empty property. You never know—it might just change the way they think about their home. Register for my next FREE webinar on how to monetize your own home, here - https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/61WTjBMhTF2MPCh_WrcMbA If you’re enjoying the show, hit follow and leave a review — it helps more people find it!