Hi @Lizzie
One of the key ways they can support new hosts, is by ensuring all new hosts go through a tutorial on how key Airbnb works, before new hosts are allowed to have a listing go live.
The number of new hosts, who don't realise they have IB turned on and are shocked to get a confirmed booking, the number of new hosts, who cancel, not realising they will be penalised, the number of new hosts, who don't understand that third party bookings aren't allowed etc.
The list is endless and leads to new hosts being unhappy with how Airbnb works.
A key beef for new and existing hosts is that the so called host 'guarantee', is in reality not a guarantee. Airbnb makes it difficult for hosts to put in a claim. When a host does succeed in putting in a claim, they are often turned down or a small arbitary amount offered. With no explanation and no opportunity to challenge Airbnb's decision. Case closed.
I think concerns about the guarantee is one of the key areas that puts people off becoming a host, as hosts feel Airbnb won't honour its 'guarantee' and they will be left out of pocket if there is guest damage.
Providing incentives won't make people want to host. Providing support to help new hosts understand how listing with Airbnb works and a meaningful host guarantee would.