There’s a lot of moving parts when it comes to running a hair and beauty business — even more so when it’s done completely by hand.
We live in an increasingly digital world, where people expect to book things at the touch of the button and clients expect the same convenience when booking hair and beauty appointments.
Plus, having an online booking presence can help take off some of the pressure that running a salon brings, while also making it easier for clients to connect with you.
We’ve pulled together a bunch of ways that online booking can make both you and your clients’ lives that much simpler.
You’re always open
Online booking makes it easier for clients to know your availability and how it will work around their own schedules. It gives them access to you at all hours of the day, without you having to sit by the phone.
47% of clients book their appointments outside of most salons’ hours, so giving them that option is beneficial for both of you. Your salon is always accessible, and you won’t miss out on potential bookings.
By taking your bookings online you can also see, in real-time, what’s going on in your salon. With a digital diary, you can see exactly who’s working on what at a glance, and it gives you time to fill any gaps in the upcoming weeks. Plus, you’ll never be double booked again. Easy.
You’re giving clients the best experience
It can be hard to keep track of every single thing that goes on in a salon. What were your most popular treatments this year? Did your price change make a difference? Who’s your most requested stylist?
Online booking means you collect that information automatically, whenever a client makes an appointment. Having that kind of information at your fingertips is a great way to make sure you’re not missing any important details. You can see your salon’s performance and trends with easy-to-read reports, and keep up with your clients’ preferences.
Most importantly, when you’re able to understand how your salon is performing and how you’ve interacted with clients in the past, finding areas where you can improve and provide a better experience is easier than ever.
Each time a client comes back, you learn more about what treatments they usually want and what products they like. The more you learn, the better equipped you are to offer them the things that they really want.
You’re everywhere
It’s all about options. Online booking gives your clients a range of ways to find and book you, without making it hard or taking up too much of your time.
By adding a ‘Book now’ button to your website, clients can book on the spot with ease when they’re checking out your menu and pricing.
You can do the same thing on your Facebook and Instagram pages. Use it as a place to not only connect with clients but get bookings too, without them ever having to leave your profile. It’s community and business building all in one place.
Giving clients options for how and where to book their appointments with you makes an impact. It shows that you care about their experience and that bodes well for the appointment. They get easy access to you in the ways that matter to them — and you boost your bookings. Everybody wins.