[Celebration] What an amazing journey: Three years as a Host Advisory Board member

[Delphine348]

Over the past three years, I’ve had the big privilege of serving as a member of the Host Advisory Board. This experience has been incredibly enriching and has allowed me to gain deep insights into the needs and challenges faced by hosts. I could not have foreseen the profound impact this experience would have on my understanding of a major platform and the broader short-term rental market. I’d like to share my journey, the key lessons learned, and the impact of this role on my professional growth.

The beginning

My journey began at the end of 2021 when I was approached by Airbnb to join their newly created Host Advisory Board. The board consisted of a diverse and international set of 24 individuals, including hosts, Community Leaders, and Superhost Ambassadors. Our primary goal was to provide feedback and suggestions to improve the platform's user experience. Think of it as being a detective, but instead of solving crimes, you're solving the mystery of why users can’t find your gorgeous listing right away.

My responsibilities as a Host Advisory Board member were multifaceted. I regularly collected feedback from my community of hosts, identifying common issues and areas for improvement. I also supported by providing my inputs and thoughts on platform policies. As both leader and Advisory Board member, I actively engaged with the host community, facilitating discussions, and addressing concerns with the help of the Airbnb Community team—which helps in building a strong and supportive community. 

Challenges and solutions
Keeping up with rapidly evolving regulations in different jurisdictions underscored the importance of adaptability and proactive communication. 

To address those, our group helped Airbnb teams who worked on developing features that provided both parties with the tools they needed, such as enhanced communication channels, more detailed earning information, and listing presentation. 

Key learnings

• User-centric design: The importance of user-centric design cannot be overstated. Every feature and policy should be designed with the end-user in mind, ensuring it meets their needs and enhances their experience. It's like designing a chair—if it's not comfortable, no one will sit in it.
•  Communication is key: Effective communication is crucial in resolving conflicts and building trust within the community. Clear, concise, and timely communication can prevent many issues from escalating. 
• Continuous improvement: The platform's success relies on continuous improvement. Regularly seeking and implementing user feedback is essential for maintaining a competitive edge. It's like being a gardener—you must constantly tend to your plants to keep them healthy and growing.

Impact on professional growth

This role has significantly contributed to my professional growth. It has sharpened my analytical skills, enhanced my ability to work collaboratively, and improved my problem-solving capabilities. It has given me a deeper understanding of the short-term rental industry and the intricacies of user experience design. It's like going to the gym for your brain—you come out stronger and more flexible.

Serving as a Host Advisor member has been a rewarding and transformative experience. Witnessing the tangible impact of our recommendations on the platform’s growth and user satisfaction has been immensely fulfilling.

As I look back on these three years, I am grateful for the opportunities and insights gained. Looking ahead, I am eager to continue leveraging this experience to contribute to initiatives that bridge the gap between technology and user needs, fostering innovation and inclusivity in the digital economy.