Should You Give That Influencer A Free Stay?

Got another DM asking for a free stay? Me too, my inbox is groaning with them right now! Someone with 500,000 followers wants to stay at your property - sounds flattering, but will it actually get you any bookings? Probably not. And that's because most hosts don't understand the massive difference between an influencer and a content creator. They're not the same thing, and getting this wrong can be a costly mistake.In this episode, I break down exactly how to spot the difference and avoid getting burned. Influencers promote your stay to their audience - that's it. One feature, maybe some stories, then nothing. Content creators give you professional photos and videos YOU can use in YOUR marketing for months or years. We're talking 100-200 images and 50-100 video clips. When someone approaches you, check their audience demographics, look at engagement (not follower count), and get everything in writing. If you're serious about making influencer collaborations work for your business, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you make smart decisions that actually drive bookings.---Key Takeaways:Influencers and content creators are completely different - one promotes to their audience, the other gives you marketing assets you can use forever.Reach doesn't equal results - someone with 500,000 followers but low engagement is less valuable than 3,000 engaged followers who match your ideal guests.Always ask for audience demographics before agreeing to anything - where are their followers based, what age, what interests?Get your agreement in writing upfront - how many posts, what content, what rights do you have to use it afterwards?Think long-term relationships, not one-offs - when you find a creator who gets your brand, keep working with them.Brief them properly with a shoot list so you get the specific assets you need for your marketing.---More resources:How To Find The Right Influencer - THE FULLY BOOKED BUSINESS CLUB™---Do you have a marketing roadmap for your business?No more winging it and feeling like you are in constant marketing chaos! Create your easy-to-follow marketing roadmap for the year ahead. My Direct Bookings Bootcamp is now available ON DEMAND! Let’s make this the best year yet for direct bookings! Head to my website for more info.---Are you currently rely on Airbnb or another online agent (OTA)? Take Sarah's FREE quiz here - it's time to give them the boot!---Connect with Sarah:WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedIn---