Understanding hosts’ task performance antecedents in e-rentals

Purpose When evaluating a booking enquiry, hosts rely on peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation platforms (P2PAP) to make an informed decision. Consequently, accepting or rejecting a booking is influenced by the capacity of the P2PAP to convey to hosts valuable information about guests. This study aims to explain hosts’ task performance in short-term rentals (e-rentals). Design/methodology/approach The proposed model explains hosts’ task performance in e-rentals as a combination of task-specific user capabilities and technology capabilities. The model was tested using the partial least square path modelling technique. Findings Task-specific user capabilities of covert observation and interrogation were found to have a positive influence on task performance. Moreover, a moderation effect of representation on the relationship between self-disclosure and task performance was found to be significant, yet contrary to the one hypothesized. Originality/value The findings from this study help to develop the concept of task-specific user capabilities in shaping task performance.