I asked ChatGPT about the advantages and to be honest, I think many ideas are actually great.
Here’s how implementing a “hide listing” feature for sitters could benefit TrustedHousesitters and improve the platform overall:
- Collecting Feedback Through Random Surveys
Whenever a sitter hides a listing, THS could ask them for the reason. Options could include:
Not relevant to me
Insufficient information
Unclear description
Missing photos
Unappealing location
This feedback would provide valuable insights into why certain listings are ignored, allowing THS to identify common issues and trends.
- Feedback Dashboards for Hosts
Hosts could receive anonymized feedback summaries, such as:
“20 sitters found the description unclear.”
“15 sitters mentioned they would like to see more photos.”
This would motivate hosts to improve their listings while maintaining a user-friendly and supportive atmosphere.
- Automated Recommendations for Hosts
Based on frequent feedback, THS could offer hosts tailored, automated tips like:
“High-quality photos increase visibility and applications.”
“Providing details about local transportation options can make your listing more appealing.”
This would streamline the process of creating attractive listings and improve the overall quality of the platform.
- Improved Matching Algorithms
The reasons why sitters hide certain listings could feed into THS’s matching algorithms, ensuring sitters are shown more relevant options in the future. This would save time, reduce frustration, and enhance user satisfaction.
- Educational Content for Hosts
Insights from hidden listings could be used to create educational content for hosts, such as:
Webinars or guides titled “How to Create an Irresistible Listing.”
Checklists that address common issues, like the importance of clear descriptions and high-quality images.
Educated hosts create better listings, which benefits everyone.
- Premium Features for Hosts
THS could monetize this data by offering hosts access to advanced feedback analytics. For example:
“Understand why some sitters skipped your listing.”
“Find out what improvements could increase applications.”
This would provide an additional revenue stream while offering hosts deeper insights.
- Sitter Satisfaction Surveys
Periodic surveys could gather not just reasons for hiding listings, but also general feedback on what features sitters would like to see. This would ensure THS continuously evolves to meet user needs and stays competitive.
- Benchmarking to Improve Listings
THS could use this data to establish benchmarks, like:
“Listings with 5+ photos and clear timeframes get 60% more applications.”
Sharing such insights motivates hosts to improve their listings, leading to a higher quality pool of options for sitters.
Why This Makes Business Sense for THS
By implementing these features, THS would not only improve the user experience for sitters but also ensure higher-quality listings and more satisfied hosts. Better matching and improved listings increase platform engagement, reduce churn, and foster trust among users. Additionally, premium insights could open new monetization opportunities while keeping the core service attractive.
In short, a “hide listing” feature wouldn’t harm the platform’s visibility metrics—it would enhance the overall quality and value for everyone involved.