When other hosts contact you using reservation request

[Marisa59]

Hi Hosts,

Every once in awhile I get a message from a fellow Host via Reservation Request for my listing, and it irritates me that my response metrics are being calculated to respond to a message for something other than an actual reservation request in this way.  Any tips for dealing with this?  I've written back to the people expressing my concern that this isn't the best way to be in touch, but should Airbnb be aware of these occurrences?  Thanks for your feedback.

[David126]

Accept the reservation? They will not do it again.

[Marisa59]

I've accepted the pre-approval, it wasn't a full reservation request.  I also directed him to the Community Centre for further help.

[Karen-and-Brian0]

Hi @Marisa59 How do you suggest they get in touch with you? I completely agree there should be a way to just ask another host a question, but unless they're on these forums where we have the option of sending a private message, the only choices we have are  "Contact Host" which requires the filling in of dates etc. or "Request to Book", ditto, and which we wouldn't want to do. I'm not sure if a message sent through "Contact Host" impacts the metrics i.e. has to be preappproved/declined within 24 hours - I think it doesn't, but have never wanted to take the chance. It would be nice if Airbnb treated the "Contact Host" link as being for general questions, no booking dates required and no penalities involved what-so-ever. Maybe a suggestion for Host Voice?

I have used "Contact Host" to get in touch with other hosts in my area a couple of times & they were lovely about it. I'd have felt awful if someone write back & told me this wasn't the best way to get in touch with them - because really, what other options are there? If you know of one, please share. - Karen

[Gerry-And-Rashid0]

@Marisa59

There is one upside - it increases the activity on your profile and bumps you up the search listing as it looks like a booking enquiry!