Built To Book: Stop Buying Tech To Fix The Wrong Problem
Smoobu and Host Planet have partnered to deliver top-tier education for hosts globally. To kick off this collaboration, we proudly announce "Built to Book," a new six-episode podcast series. Releasing once a month, this series is designed to help hosts secure more bookings, professionalize their operations, and build a sustainable business.
Host Planet is a premier educational hub and community dedicated to helping property hosts thrive. Through expert interviews, actionable guides, and industry insights, they empower hosts to transform their side hustles into thriving hospitality businesses.
Stop Buying Tech To Fix The Wrong Problem
In our premiere episode, Smoobu Managing Director Jannik Abraham sits down with James Farley to discuss what it truly takes to transition from simply renting out a property to running a professional hospitality business.
The conversation centers on a common trap hosts fall into when scaling their operations. Often, they buy software to fix a feeling of overwhelm.
Software does not fix feelings. It fixes specific processes. Before you change anything, Jannik recommends auditing your current operations. Identify what went wrong last month and determine exactly what you would have needed in place to prevent it. Only then should you look for a tool to systemize the solution.
Know Your Numbers And Protect Your Profit
You cannot run a successful business without a clear financial picture. Jannik highlights the importance of tracking your cash flow and understanding your basic metrics. If you are still running your property as a side hustle, the most impactful change you can make this week is to start tracking these five key numbers:
- Total revenue
- Total operating cost
- Net operating income
- Occupancy rate
- Average daily rate
Facing these numbers can be intimidating, but gaining transparency is the only way to hold yourself accountable and ensure your business remains profitable. If you need clarification on any industry metrics or acronyms as you grow your business, refer to the Terminology Definition List.xlsx file in our host resources.
Automate The Transactional, Focus On The Relational
Providing a memorable guest experience is what will set you apart and earn you stellar reviews. By automating routine hygiene processes like channel sync, dynamic pricing, and standard guest messaging, you create space for the personal touches that truly matter.
Catch the full first episode of "Built to Book" today. You can watch the full video on YouTube or listen on the go via Spotify. Make sure to subscribe to Host Planet so you do not miss our upcoming deep dives into the industry over the next five months.
Expand Your Expertise
Looking to deepen your knowledge even further? We have teamed up with Host Planet to offer a wealth of additional resources to help hosts scale their businesses. Be sure to check out our collaborative ebook, How To Optimize Your OTA Listing, or read more about our global short-term rental education partnership.
