Nail techs often book service appointments before salons even open their doors, so choosing the best scheduler for your business is an extremely important decision.
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One major question new salon owners ask themselves is, "How am I going to handle scheduling my clients?"
Nail techs often book service appointments before salons even open their doors, so choosing the best scheduler for your business is an extremely important decision.
Years ago, salons scheduled using an actual book! Front desk receptionists managed the book by taking calls and recording the services requested. Any subsequent appointment confirmations, reschedules or cancellations would find their way into the pages of the tome. This work can now be completed more cost effectively using an online scheduling system.
Schedulers lower administrative and front desk costs, and many can track finances, order supplies and monitor returns on investments (ROI). These are critical functions to nail techs, who have rightfully become more discerning as to where they direct their money and talents.
Not all nail technicians are adept in information technology, but most online schedulers are easy to use. Choose the one that will support your business in the long term.
Consider the following aspects when choosing your scheduler:
Cost – Some online schedulers are free, others charge a monthly or annual fee based on added features. Some schedulers provide limited features at no charge but offer additional options you can use as your salon grows.
Communications – Communication is the life blood of any successful salon. Many schedulers can provide clients automated confirmations, thank-you notes, receipts, cancellation and no show notifications and announcements in addition to serving as a portal for clients to manage their own appointments, which is a huge timesaving option!
Ease of Use – I was once hired by a large spa that simply sent over the access information to its scheduling system and said, "Learn it." The system was extremely complex, and we had to request a representative to assist us in all its facets, at an added cost. Most systems provide potential clients a free trial prior to purchase. "Try on" the systems you’re considering!
Ability to Handle Growth – Many schedulers are modular, meaning they grow as your clientele and needs grow. For example, a tech might not be able to provide e-gift cards via their online scheduler initially, but this can become a great option once their business grows to accommodate them.
Social Media Integration – Social media makes effective marketing accessible to all, as users can share customized content across platforms at little to no cost. Many schedulers integrate with social media platforms, texts and email to distribute one post or announcement via multiple platforms with one click of a button.
Reports – Detailed reporting will help you manage the growth of your business on a daily, weekly, monthly and annual basis. Track productivity, determine your busiest times, track cancellation trends and so much more at the touch of a button. Be sure to review which reports your chosen system provides.
Inventory Tracker – Watching the bottom line is imperative to maintaining a cost-effective menu that generates profits. A system that can do this, and help you monitor supplies and inventory, can reduce administrative time and optimize your cost of services and retail revenue.
Waitlist – Many systems offer a virtual waitlist. Waitlisted clients are notified when their desired appointment time is available, minimizing technician downtime.
Appointment Management – Some schedulers ask clients for their credit card information before allowing them to make appointments, minimizing potential revenue loss.
Many of us are sole proprietors during a moment when finding staff, supplies and equipment is increasingly challenging, and client traffic is more than likely overwhelming. An online scheduler can help streamline your business. Schedule the time to shop for the scheduler that best suits your growing business needs.
About the Author:
Denise Baich, a Certified ANT/MNT CCPMA, mentor, educator and trainer, has more than 40 years of nail industry experience. Baich owns The Pedicure Plus, a luxury natural nail care suite and concierge service in St. Louis, Missouri. As a poet, author, editor, educator and spokesperson, Baich lifts others above the fray by helping them develop their passions and marketable "best."
