95% of issues involving hosts and travelers are about communication. When dealing with people from all around the world, there might be times when we don’t feel like everything’s going as expected. The most important thing in these situations is communication.
First, what has the traveler been doing that does not match your expectations? Maybe they’re not working the whole shift? Have they caused any problems with a guest? Have they damaged in any way your property? Did they drink or smoke when/where they weren’t supposed to?
If there’s something about them you’re not feeling comfortable with, how about talking to them directly and letting them know that there’s something troubling you? You can tell them about the importance of the agreed shifts, the atmosphere of the place, and how you value that your guests be treated well and with respect and that they should keep that in mind at all times when staying with you.
Don’t feel disinclined to tell them how you’re feeling about the experience, but always remember that they might be learning and need constructive feedback, especially if that’s their first time traveling as volunteers! Stay open to listening to them and try to explain whatever they need to hear in the best way possible! We value communication and transparency a lot, so we encourage our hosts to talk things through with the travelers if something doesn’t go as expected. :)
If the traveler’s behavior continues to fail your expectations even after you’ve talked, we’re here to help! You can reach out to us and explain everything, feel free to submit a request using the button at the end of this article or send us a message at hosts@worldpackers.com.
If the traveler has in any way seriously damaged your property or had serious issues with guests or with local law, you’re entitled to your right to no longer have them with you, in which case you’re free to tell them you cannot host them anymore. You can also talk to us to explain what happened so that we see how we can help you and the traveler.
If something doesn’t go as planned, speak up! Talk to them, listen to them and be open to what they have to say. Communication is key! :)