6 Ways Salons Can Fill The Dreaded Appointment Gaps

Have you noticed a trend in your salon? Clients are stretching out the time between appointments. What used to be a haircut every two weeks is now a monthly trim, and those once-a-month color touch-ups are now every two months.

And while some might celebrate a little more free time in their schedules, this also leads to empty chairs and lost revenue. We will share why more appointment gaps happen. Plus, we’ll give you lots of digital marketing ideas to keep your appointment book full.

But before diving into action, let’s check out some possible reasons for fewer salon visits.

Why Are Clients Spacing Out Their Bookings?

We have seen several areas that could be contributing to this troubling trend:

• Lifestyle Changes: Busy schedules might lead clients to space out appointments.
• Trend Shifts: Maybe clients are embracing a more natural look, requiring less frequent cuts or colors.
• New Products: Long-lasting hair treatments or at-home care products could extend the time between salon visits.
• Better Haircare Knowledge: Thanks to beauty blogs and tutorials, clients are becoming more savvy with at-home haircare, extending the life of their salon treatments.
• Money Troubles: With higher prices, some clients might choose fewer but more premium salon experiences.

Scheduling challenges doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to empty chairs!

Get More Salon Appointments with These Six Marketing Activities

Don’t let these open slots become the new normal! Here’s how to take advantage of digital tools to win back that lost salon appointment time:

Revamp Your Website:

Your website is your digital storefront. Make sure it’s user-friendly and highlights your services with stunning images.

• Share the benefits of more frequent appointments, talking about the difference between a “maintain” and a “transform” service.
• Also, make sure to showcase your most lux services and highlight why they are better than at-home alternatives.
• Lastly, you can also check out our Ultimate Guide to Designing a Salon Website.

SEO Power:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps potential clients find you online.

• Target relevant keywords like “hair color correction” or “[your city] blowout styles.”
• Make sure your Google Business Profile is up to date with key business information and offers to draw new Google visitors to your website.

This will increase your website traffic and attract new clients who are ready to book.

Social Media Magic:

Double down on building a strong social media presence.

• Post stunning “before and after” photos showing dramatic changes. This helps to get clients back in the chair, after being away for a while.
• Host social media contests with a prize of a full salon experience. You’ll get people excited and save valuable client information for future marketing campaigns.
• Run ads on Instagram to reach your ideal clientele. Discover how to Attract your ideal Client with Social Media.

Loyalty Programs:

Reward your existing clients! Offer loyalty programs or referral incentives to encourage repeat business and word-of-mouth marketing.

Highlight Value-Added Services:

Do you offer specialty treatments or consultations? Promote these services to get clients to come in more often for a complete hair and beauty experience.

Offer Flexible Scheduling:

Cater to busy clients by offering extended hours, early morning appointments, or online booking options.

Bonus Ideas To Increase Salon Bookings

Rethink Your Services:

Analyze your service menu. Are there express treatments or add-on services you can offer for clients seeking shorter appointments? Consider “mini facials” or “scalp massages” to fill those between slots.

Encourage client feedback!

Use online surveys or polls on social media to understand your clientele’s needs and preferences. This valuable information can help you tailor your services and marketing efforts to keep them coming back for more.

By implementing these strategies, you can bridge the gap between appointments, keep your salon bustling, and ensure your business thrives. Remember, a proactive approach is key!

Need a Stress-Free Way to Elevate Your Salon’s Website?

A savvy approach to website management can yield some pretty major IRL results – but we know how busy you are running your salon. That’s where Glammatic comes in.

Our team helps busy salon owners create and manage gorgeous salon-specific websites. Learn more about our website management today. Let’s give your online presence the glow-up it deserves!