Scheduling appointments

Often times when my clients call to schedule an appointment we have no problems what so ever.

Today was a different story. I had all sorts of scheduling snafoos! I take the blame upon myself for not asking the right questions, but maybe if I talk about this, you can help out your overworked/whelmed hair dresser!

I started late today, because I wanted to take the morning off. My first booking was at 1pm, and was actually 2 ppl coming together. At the time of scheduling, they asked for one colour, and 2 haircuts. Here is where the trouble began. They were new clients (refferals!) and I failed to ask " what type of colour? all over, or highlights?". Assuming they meant all over colour, the majority of ppl wanting highlights will say highlights, I scheduled them to allow enough time for a single process colour and 2 hair cuts. Turns out, it was a full highlight and 2 cuts. My next client of the day, I scheduled at 2pm, she had told me she was going to do her own colour and was just getting a cut. When she arrived, she informed me she wanted her colour done as well. My 3pm client was to be a men's cut, he called before and asked if he could bring a friend... I said okay, but could thay please come at 4 instead (since I was running behind!) . Of course, his friend turned out to want highlights too!

So, my fairly uneventful, easy day on the books, turned into a time management nightmare! Granted, everything "worked out" and I survived the rush, but I would like to avoid these sorts of situations in the future, and you can too!

Always be clear when booking, what service you are booking. Even if you are undecided, go ahead and schedule for the longer service. I personally would rather have a 15 minute break on something easier, than run behind. If the receptionist isn't sure what to book you for, don't be afraid to ask to talk to your stylist, or have them ask. It works out better for everyone.

I usually give my clients a 15 minute grace period before they get the phone call. I generally stagger my appointmets to allow for late arrivals, or me being just plain slow! Most of the time, I can still work them in, even if they are late. Please, if you are running late, call your stylist to let them know, even if it's 5 minutes. Knowing when you will be arriving can make the day go easier. No one wants to arrive 15 minutes late to find out they will have to reschedule, and I would rather not have the gap in my books.

At the end of the day, it is my responsibility as your stylist to makes sure your visit goes smoothly and you leave happy. But, we could all use a little help! A little communication goes a long way!