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Category: Getting Started
By: Michael Thompson
Reply by David Okafor:
Yes, it matters — especially for new hosts without many reviews. Guests check your profile when they're deciding whether to trust you with their vacation. Here's what to update: - **Clear, friendly headshot** — not a selfie, not a group photo. Just you, smiling, well-lit. It builds trust. - **Bio that shows personality** — "Hi, I'm Sarah! I've been hosting in Nashville for 3 years. I love recommending local restaurants and making sure my guests have everything they need." That's it. 3-4 sentences. - **Verification badges** — enable everything (email, phone, ID). More badges = more trust. - **Superhost badge** — this is earned, not set, but it's the biggest profile trust signal. After I updated my profile from a blank bio to a friendly paragraph with a good photo, my inquiry-to-booking conversion rate went up about 15%. Not scientific, but noticeable.
Reply by Nolan Peters:
Solo female travelers in particular check host profiles carefully. I know because I am one, and I always read the bio and check for Superhost status and verified ID before booking. If your profile looks like a ghost account, you're losing a segment of cautious travelers who might otherwise book. The 5-minute investment in a decent photo and bio is worth it.