Pros and cons of booking online

If you run a small business like a hair or a beauty salon, you’re probably wondering whether or not it’s a good idea to invest in an online booking system. There are always pros and cons but if you take into account such factors as time saving, customer satisfaction and free advertising, online booking might really hit the bull's-eye and drag your business into 21^st century.

It’s impossible to escape from technology

According to new figures from eMarketer, the number of smartphone users worldwide will surpass 2 billion in 2016, representing over a quarter of the global population. That number is expected to grow to more than 2.56 billion people, or a third of the world's population, in 2018. 

It’s not a surprise as smartphones are one of the most popular forms of communication all over the world. Besides making phone calls, nearly all smartphones today can take pictures, play music, provide directions through GPS and keep track of appointments and contacts. 

Through the installation of apps, the list of possible smartphone uses grows longer every day so… Why not to find out how adopting new technology can benefit your business.

Advantages:

• Open around the clock

Online booking system attracts new customers, manages existing ones and takes bookings online 24 hours a day, seven days a week – it’s open even in the middle of the night when you and your employees are sleeping. It is convenient for clients as they can book a visit from home after a long day at work. Simplicity of booking could be the main reason a potential client may choose you rather than your competitor. 

• Convenient for you and your clients

Having an online booking calendar might be a good idea as there just aren't enough hours in a day to handle each and every phone reservation coming through. With more customers booking online, you’re not tied to a phone and have time to make your clients look good. It is convenient for your customers as well because they no longer have to wait on hold to book appointments when your salon is busy. They get instant satisfaction of having a guaranteed service for later, no hassle of standing in lines and waiting for conformation. 

• Last-minute reservation

Statistics show that 40% of the reservations are made less than one day in advance. Online booking system makes it easy to make “last-minute” appointments for services. Clients can see your real-time calendar availability, self-select the time that works best for them, and easily book their own appointments in advance. There are no unused slots! Customers who book their own reservations are more likely to show up. 

• A modern company

Companies that make greater use of the technologies are seen as modern and successful businesses. 

• No errors allowed

With an online booking system you avoid all the possible misunderstandings that can happen when booking on the phone. You can customize emails that will automatically confirm the reservation and send your customers all the details about their visit in your salon. 

• Easy cancellation

It may seem surprising, but many people do not feel comfortable when they need to call and cancel their appointments. An online calendar gives them the opportunity to do this without having a chat over the phone or eye to eye with the service provider. The business owners have no reason to complain either as an online booking system system reduces the number of cases when prearranged client does not appear in the salon.

Disadvantages:

• Internet access is a must

If you don't have reliable internet access, online booking system is not for you. 

• Synchronize your calendars

Not everyone is a fan of technology. There will always be someone who would rather make an appointment over the phone. It’s your job to synchronize your online calendar with the traditional one. 

• Spend some time and money

Finding a good online booking system that meets the needs of your business can be a tiresome process. Before you choose one you will have to read and learn a lot about features or the online booking options. Be prepared to spend some time and money on it. There are always costs involved with professional online booking system - although these are worth it in the long run.

The mobile era is here

The smartphone market is evolving extraordinarily quickly. We are using  mobiles all the time, not only for making phone calls. Research shows that mobile users today are spending 86% of their mobile time on mobile apps, with 68% of mobile users engaging with brands via apps. 

In that case, choosing an online booking system might be a stable investment that can help your business grow. There are a number of apps available on most platforms that could work well with your business. One of them is Booksy that allows the business owners to create a business profile and completely manage their calendar and appointment schedule. 

Companies that decide to use the application are provided with customer support and advertising in social media. The application is convenient for customers as well because it gives them access to all services in one place. Booksy allows the client to view the business' profile, see their availability, and book an appointment right from the app. It’s as easy as that!

To sum up

Online booking – especially via mobile apps – helps foster better client relationships and helps you provide better customer service. It seems to be a must for any business that is spending lots of time answering phone calls, sending emails or considering hiring more staff. What is more, adapting an online booking system can help in expanding businesses globally.