What Is Online Scheduling?
Online scheduling is a business tool that companies utilize on their website
or a predetermined interface so that customers can create, reschedule,
or cancel appointments with your company. Every
company that provides a service, from HVAC to dental, needs to schedule appointments
for clients. Being able to do it online frees up time for your staff and
makes it a lot more convenient for your customers.
Depending on the scheduling software capabilities, your calendar will automatically
sync with the online scheduler and you’ll immediately see what your
booking is for the week, month, or even year. With an online scheduler and a
Live Chat feature, your customers will have a solid way to
communicate with you without tying up the phone line.
How to Introduce Online Scheduling to Established Clients
If your company is just starting out, online scheduling is a great way
to build confidence and trust with your
target audience. It lets people know you understand the needs of a busy life and that
online scheduling is a lot more convenient than waiting on hold to make
an appointment.
However, if your business has been around for a while, chances are you’ve
utilized the phone system when it comes to scheduling. Moving things online
will not only excite your customers, but it’ll give your business
a chance to grow even when you’re not at your desk.
To announce your new method of scheduling, it’s a good idea to send
out the information in a few ways. Let customers know about the new feature
through your platforms on
social media, email, and your website. Include information about what can be done on
the online scheduler (such as making, changing, or canceling appointments),
and whether or not they’ll receive reminders before their scheduled
time. If you have clients worried about using the new system, assure them
they can still call in to make appointments if necessary. The online scheduling
system is all about making your customer’s life easier however you can.
What Online Scheduling Can Add to Your Predictive Analytics
As your system matures and your online scheduling gets used more and more
often, you can start to collect valuable data that you can use in your
marketing efforts and running your
business.
After at least a year of collection, you can start to forecast what times
of the year are the busiest and staff appropriately. You’ll also
be able to see when things are slow and up your
marketing strategies during those times. Perhaps provide an incentive to come in
with a discount, special promotion, or bundle.
Predictive analytics also pinpoints your most attractive services which
give you intel on what might generate more growth and what’s not
so you can make improvements.
