Being Firm

Nov 30, 2012

Nadine S.

so my question is there are few clients who make you drag their appointments by canceling too many times and then acting like they are not interested. How can I be more firm with them so am not wasting my time for them to get a fixed date?

Nov 30, 2012

Mandi S.

Become less available. If a client like that doesn't have the freedom to jerk you around for fear of not obtaining an appointment at all, they'll make it and keep it.  ;)

Nov 30, 2012

Lolita B.

well for me, i would probably give them the "three strikes you're out" concept. It can be a little frustrating but do give room for legitimate cancellations. If you bend too much for a client then they will take advantage of that or think you don't take your profession seriously. I'm coming from a private music teacher's perspective, but it applies to everything. Like Mandy said, make it difficult to keep a schedule. Your time and investment is just as precious as theirs.  :)

Nov 30, 2012

Meliss P.

Hey Lolita 

Nov 30, 2012

Lolita B.

Hi :)

Nov 30, 2012

Amanda L.

I agree with Lolita. Don't punish the client for the first mishap, but let he or she know that it's not something you tolerate and that you have a three strike policy . My waxing center has the same policy and I would never dream of canceling or missing an appointment unless absolutely nessacary! Very effective!

Nov 30, 2012

Nadine S.

It's less of a mishap it's because she believes her schedule is more demanding than others. Not one but two of them. 

Nov 30, 2012

Alyssa D.

I always give a confirmation call one or two days in advance so that everyone is clear on what time they are to be there. in your case, I may even let them know that because of past discrepancies, I will now be requiring a non-refundable deposit to cover my time whether they show or not. when you enforce this policy, they start showing up on time, if not early. 

Dec 1, 2012

Nadine S.

Thank you all for your input. I understand that these type of people take advantage of being available and consider their schedules more hectic as we are sitting around freely :( which is not true. If a client respects your time and effort then they are a keeper. I will keep your tips in mind and do the same and implement a policy for all future clients

Dec 1, 2012

Gin S.

you can also start charging deposits to those clients that have a history for cancelling. tell them it is to commit you to the appt. àlso have them sign a contract forfeiting their deposit if they stand u up. have a set cancellation policy on paper and make them sign it at the very first meeting.

Dec 1, 2012

Nadine S.

That is also another good idea I should follow. Doing that will avoid time wasted. Thanks Gin

Dec 2, 2012

Gin S.

no prob. I've been doun this for a long time so I've been through every way of beung ripped off. Also, I live with an attorney so I'm lucky that way. Good luck!

Dec 2, 2012

Nicol D.

Agreeing with everyone. Don't put up with that and get a retainer (deposit). 

Dec 4, 2012

Nadine S.

I have one bride who wants a trial but keeps putting it off and her wedding is dec 31 so it's December now and has not done her trial through me but emails and says she wants one. What can I tell her exactly so I can come off as firm and not taking this canceling stuff anymore? 

Dec 4, 2012

Ari W.

if ses saying she wants a trial tis close to her date then shes probably looking for a way to get her makeup done for free for her bridal shower, rehearsal dinner etc or anyother even close to the actual date get what i mean? 

Dec 4, 2012

Nadine S.

yep completely get what you mean but even though I want to let her know that I wont take this kind of canceling and whatever date she wants or thinks that her schedule is demanding etc and mine is not? she should know that just as her schedule is demanding I have mine too