Should I Use an Online Booking System in My Salon?
Not too long ago, salons had to deal with the burdensome task of client bookings by phone. It’s almost hard to envision with all of the technology that is available today, but yes, there was once a time that stylists literally “penciled” clients into a “book”.
Over the past decade, many cosmetology professionals have adopted modern salon management software. Many of these software options contain online booking solutions. Clients can now view their stylists’ schedules and book their appointments from the comfort of their own homes. Stylists felt that they had more time to focus on in-salon services. Over time, the number of salons with receptionists has dropped markedly.
However, as more and more salons ditch the front desk, new problems are arising.
Clunky Logins
Most online software require clients to create a username and password. Let’s face it, we all have forgotten a password or two- especially a throwaway password you use to book a blowout.
Client Confusion
Many salon booking sites can be quite frustrating for clients. With some software, a client must click through each day individually to find open time-slots. In many cases, clients must first log-in and create a profile before they can even view availability!
Loss of the Human Touch
We all know that a huge part of success in our industry comes from client interaction and service. If your potential new client’s first interaction with your business is a confusing website, what are the odds that they will actually follow through the booking process?
Missed Revenue Opportunities
Phone-based booking has always provided a great opportunity for up-selling, and “warming up” clients for retail sales. As of yet, no software can compare.
Below we have listed some of the software options that pose a bit less strife for clients — no logins are required. However, data still shows that having a human voice on the other end of the phone improves client experience, and increases salon earnings. We at My Salon Desk can assist you by providing an affordable alternative to traditional receptionists.
We can take care of client booking.
Learn more about how My Salon Desk can assist your salon with its booking needs.
Timely
Starts at $15 / month
Starting as low as $15, Timely is definitely an affordable salon management system. Loved by famed Tabatha Coffey of Tabatha’s Salon Takeover, Timely boasts a full-scale software solution including everything from booking, to inventory, to employee management.
Most importantly, there is NO online login required to book an appointment.
Set More
Starts at $0 / month
Yet ANOTHER login-free option! Don’t be deceived by the simply, user friendly layout and minimalist interface. Set More packs a big punch in terms of back-end software integrations — you can integrate with anything from Zoom to Quickbooks!
Most stylists won’t need to get that fancy; the Facebook Booking, Stripe, and Square payment integrations will probably be all you need. Use Set More as an embedded widget on your website or as a standalone booking site.
Mangomint
Starts at $135 / month
Mangomint is a high-tech offering for mid-size to large salons. The hefty price point packs many advanced options, including integrations with advanced POS software, MailChimp, and Waiver/Form collection software.
The login can also be easily embedded onto your existing website, so clients never even have to leave your webpage in order to book. And like the other options, there is no login process required.
