Best Practices for Sharing Your Digital Guide
Learn the most effective ways to deliver your digital welcome guide to guests for maximum engagement.
Smart Sharing Strategies
You've created an amazing digital welcome guide. Now, how do you get it into your guests' hands at the right time, in the right way? Distribution strategy matters as much as content quality.
Distribution Methods Compared
Direct Links via Email
Best for: Pre-arrival information delivery
Pros:
• Immediate delivery
• Works on all devices
• Easy to click from email
• Can be automated
Best Practices:
✓ Send 2-3 days before arrival (not too early, not too late)
✓ Clear subject: “Your Welcome Guide for [Property Name]”
✓ Include brief context about what they'll find
✓ Send from a recognizable email address
QR Codes
Best for: Physical property locations
Pros:
• Instant access with phone camera
• No typing required
• Works offline
• Perfect for print materials
Best Practices:
✓ Place at entry points (door, kitchen counter)
✓ Add context: “Scan for your Welcome Guide”
✓ Include backup short URL below QR code
✓ Laminate for durability
SMS/Text Message
Best for: Last-minute reminders
Pros:
• 98% open rate
• Read within minutes
• Always with the guest
• Opens conversation channel
Best Practices:
✓ Send day of arrival with door code
✓ Keep message short and friendly
✓ Include shortened URL
✓ Invite questions: “Text me anytime!”
Booking Confirmation Message
Best for: Early planners
Pros:
• Guests excited and engaged
• Sets expectations early
• Reduces pre-trip questions
• Shows professionalism
Best Practices:
✓ Include in platform messages (Airbnb, VRBO)
✓ Frame as “Get excited! Here's what to expect”
✓ Mention you'll send reminder closer to arrival
✓ Bookmark-friendly link
🎯 The Multi-Touch Strategy
Most successful hosts use multiple touchpoints:
1. Booking Confirmation
Include link in welcome message → “Here's everything you need to know!”
2. Pre-Arrival Email (2-3 days before)
Friendly reminder with guide link and arrival details
3. Check-In Day Text
“Excited to host you! Door code: 1234. Guide: [short link]”
4. QR Code on Property
Kitchen counter, welcome basket, or entry table
Result: Significantly higher guide access rates with multiple touchpoints vs. single delivery method
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Sending too early: Sent weeks before = forgotten or lost
Unclear subject lines: “Info” gets ignored. Be specific!
Long URLs: Use short, memorable links or QR codes
No context: Explain what the guide contains and why it's helpful
One-and-done: Multiple touchpoints dramatically increase engagement
Start Sharing Smarter
The best guide in the world doesn't help if guests never see it. Use multiple touchpoints, smart timing, and clear calls-to-action to ensure every guest benefits from the information you've carefully prepared.