If you’re running a short-term rental or boutique hotel, you already know the power of reviews. A single 5-star review can bump your ranking on OTAs, drive more direct bookings, and build trust with new guests before they even see your property. The problem? Reviews don’t always come naturally — even when guests loved their stay.
That’s where the art of the follow-up message comes in.
At Lumos Host, we help hoteliers and STR owners set up automated systems that make reviews feel natural, not forced. With the right approach, you can double your review rate without ever sounding pushy.
Why Reviews Don’t Always Happen on Their Own
Most guests have good intentions about leaving a review. But travel is busy. By the time they unpack, get back to work, or move on to the next destination, leaving feedback slips off the list. A gentle follow-up is what makes the difference between “meant to write one” and “actually wrote one.”
The 4-Part Follow-Up System
Step 1: Send a Thank-You Immediately Post-Checkout
A quick, genuine thank-you goes a long way. This can be as simple as:
“Thanks so much for staying with us! We loved hosting you.”
This small touch builds goodwill before the official review prompt ever shows up.
Step 2: Ask Before They Post
Instead of begging for 5 stars, ask if there’s anything you could have improved. Guests appreciate being heard. A line like:
“Was there anything we could have done better before you leave a review?”
shows you value their input and can turn minor complaints into private feedback instead of public criticism.
Step 3: Automate the Review Link
Make it easy. A short message with the direct link to the review page removes the friction. You’d be surprised how many guests don’t even know where to click.
Step 4: Reward Loyalty, Not Reviews
Instead of dangling discounts for leaving a review (which OTAs don’t love), frame it around return stays:
“Thanks again for your feedback! As a returning guest, we’d love to offer you 10% off your next stay.”
It’s a win-win: they feel appreciated, and you increase repeat bookings.
How to Automate the Whole Thing
The beauty of modern guest messaging platforms is that this entire sequence can be automated. With Lumos Host, we build a system that:
- Sends the thank-you text automatically at checkout.
- Schedules a gentle nudge 24–48 hours later.
- Customizes the tone so it feels personal, not robotic.
- Tracks responses so you can resolve guest concerns before they become public.
This way, you’re not glued to your phone — but your guests still feel cared for.
Final Thought
You don’t need to beg for reviews. You just need to create an experience worth raving about — and a smart follow-up process that makes sharing easy. When you consistently collect authentic, glowing reviews, your property’s reputation (and revenue) grows naturally.
