How I Handle Bad Guest Reviews (and my ChatGPT prompts for Keeping It Classy AND Witty)

Bad reviews happen—even to the best hosts. No matter how many 5-star stays you have, there’s always that one guest who nitpicks like they’re judging a reality show finale. 🙄 The good news? A bad review doesn’t have to ruin your day—or your listing. In fact, with the right response strategy, you can turn an awkward situation into an opportunity to attract your ideal guests.

Section 1: Why I Never Write Reviews for “That Guest”

Here’s the truth: When someone leaves a nitpicky review, it’s not about you—it’s about them. And most likely, they were never your ideal guest anyway. So instead of wasting time trying to win them over or clap back, I shift my focus to the people who matter: future guests.

When I respond to a review, I’m not writing to the person who left it. They’re gone. They’ve packed their bags, and so should you. My response is for the guests who will actually appreciate my space and vibe. It’s a chance to:

✔ Highlight what makes my place special

✔ Clarify any confusion (without sounding defensive)

✔ Set expectations for guests who actually read the listing

Section 2: How ChatGPT Helps Me Keep It Classy (With Just the Right Amount of Sass)

I’ll admit it: Before ChatGPT, I used to overthink my review responses. Do I sound too defensive? Too formal? Too sarcastic?

Now, I simply type the situation into ChatGPT and say, “Make this short, witty, and future-guest-focused.” BOOM—I get a classy response with just the right amount of personality.

Example:

Bad Review:

“The shower went hot and cold, the hammock was weird, and there was no stove and coffee maker only brews me cup.”

My Response:

“Dear Future Guests: Our cozy tiny home offers on-demand hot water, a K-cup coffee maker, and no stove—just as described. The hammock? A vintage swing set repurposed for rustic charm. Our favorite guests? The ones who read the listing and come to relax—not nitpick like it’s a competition. 😉”

See what happened there? I addressed the facts, gave clarity, AND sent a subtle message: If you’re chill and read the listing, you’ll love it here.

Section 3: Why Future-Guest Responses Win Every Time

Responding to reviews this way does three big things:

1. Filters out high-maintenance guests – The nitpickers see themselves and move on.

2. Attracts your ideal guest – People who want what you offer and appreciate your vibe.

3. Protects your sanity – No spiraling over one unhappy guest.

Remember: You’re not running a hotel with unlimited resources. You’re offering a unique stay—and that means it won’t be for everyone. And that’s OK!

Section 4: The Takeaway for Hosts

When it comes to reviews, the golden rule is: Respond for the guests you want, not the ones you’ve had.

With ChatGPT, I can whip up responses that are:

✔ Classy

✔ Witty

✔ Future-guest-focused

✔ Stress-free

And honestly? It’s kind of fun now. Instead of dreading reviews, I see them as a chance to show my personality and set expectations.

🔥 ChatGPT Prompts for Handling Reviews Like a Pro

Want to turn those awkward reviews into opportunities? Copy and paste these prompts into ChatGPT and let the magic happen:

1. The Future-Guest Focused Response

“Write a short Airbnb review response that speaks to future guests, clarifies any confusion, and sounds warm and professional—without sounding defensive.”

2. The Witty-but-Classy Comeback

“Write a witty and lighthearted review response for Airbnb that thanks the guest, corrects any misinformation politely, and appeals to future guests who value reading the listing.”

3. The Educator Style

“Write a review response that explains the property features clearly and reassures future guests, in a friendly tone.”

4. The Spicy-but-Safe Filter

“Write an Airbnb review response that filters out nitpicky guests, appeals to relaxed travelers, and uses a cheeky but professional tone.”

5. The Storyteller Approach

“Write a creative Airbnb review response that turns a negative comment into a fun, positive note, while highlighting what makes the property unique.”