You could excel in service in every way, shape, or form, and still encounter difficult guests. Every accommodation business will deal with them at some point – you just need to learn how to be prepared, and respond in the right way.

Here are some pointers that are guaranteed to reduce complaints, and placate even your most difficult guests.

Set guest expectations
When you set guest expectations, you not only drastically reduce unhappy guests, but you also protect yourself in the process.

Besides accurately depicting your property online (through realistic photos and descriptions), you can also set clear house rules and policies, communicating them upon the time of booking.

Terms and conditions are there to minimise disputes, because both sides will be totally clear about what’s expected from them.

Keep your cool
When dealing with particularly passionate guests, you must keep your cool. No matter how tempting it may be to raise your voice, put yourself in their shoes and try to be empathetic.

Apologise for what happened, and speak with confidence. It doesn’t help the situation to get caught up in the emotion – in fact, it will only make the situation worse.

You’re running an accommodation business, and you have a responsibility to the complaining guest. Always stay professional.

Focus on solutions
It’s important to try to find a solution as fast as possible. First, repeat what your guest has said to you back to them. This shows you acknowledge the source of their complaint and you’re listening.

Then, ask your guest what they would like to happen. You may want to offer them something complimentary to show them that you care more about their experience than the bottom line.

Every complaint can teach you something about your business, no matter how painful it can be to face. Try to turn it into a positive learning experience – where you take constructive criticism on board to improve your holiday home.

Follow up
After you’ve dealt with your guest, it’s important to follow up with them. Contact them via email or phone to ask if they were happy with how the complaint was dealt with, and if anything else can be done.

This will show that you really care about their experience at your property, and it will also reduce the chances of your guest feeling neglected and leaving you a negative online review.

In the off-chance that your guest does leave you feedback online, it’s very important that you respond – whether it’s positive or negative feedback.

When responding to a review, keep the following tips in mind:

Thank the guest for staying at your holiday home.
Thank them for taking the time to give their feedback.
Always keep a friendly and professional tone.
Address any negative feedback and outline any steps you have taken to improve.
Invite the guest to stay with you again.
If more discussion is necessary, take the conversation offline.