Although technology seems to improve every day, most appointment scheduling is still done the old fashioned way-with a calendar and a phone call. Although it gets the job done, there are other methods that are much more time and cost effective.

While it may seem like appointment scheduling is easy, small businesses everywhere must constantly juggle their time between servicing actual clients and scheduling new ones. This task can be very tedious especially without receptionists or assistants.

Research shows that 79% of customers would rather book online rather than by phone. As this number keeps increasing, customers are expecting more convenience and the ability to book services and appointments online.

Because of this, it is a necessity for all businesses to have a web presence though a business website. Not only can potential clients find valuable business information on a website but with appointment software, business owners can also allow clients to schedule an appointment 24 hours a day without picking up the phone.

Accept Online Payments

BookFresh's appointment software not only allows customers to book appointments online but can also accept payments online before the appointment. Businesses have the option of requiring full payment, partial payment, or no payment required.

Automated Reminders

Instead of wasting time and resources calling clients to remind them about upcoming appointments, BookFresh can send out automated reminders for you. These reminders are great for showcasing your concierge-level service and preventing no-shows from your forgetful clients. Emails can be customized to include a business logo and matching colors and can be sent from your email address instead of BookFresh.

Website Integration

Most business owners consider their website a substantial investment of time and money. Why not maximize that investment by converting more of your web visitors to paying clients. To do this, create your BookFresh widget. Enter your various services, staff members, and price points. Once you create your widget, you will receive a code to paste on your website. In minutes, you will have a personalized, robust, appointment booking system on your site.

Professional Image

One of the hardest things to do is compete with the big businesses in your industry. They have more money to spend on fancy websites, marketing campaigns, and everything else. Although these big businesses may spend thousands of dollars on appointment software, you can get the same professional look and functionality for a fraction of the cost. Even if you do not have a webmaster or IT support, BookFresh's appointment software makes it easy for the technology beginners.

Whether you own a hair salon or handyman business, online appointment software will improve your business. As this technology becomes increasingly popular, appointment software will become necessity in the future for all service-based businesses. Stay ahead of your competition and get yours today.