How to Reduce No-Shows and Regain Control of Your Time

Imagine this situation: you have everything prepared - your workspace, materials, dedicated time and space, and the client doesn't show up. No phone call, no message. Just an empty slot that could have been used meaningfully, and which is now costing you money and energy.

No-shows aren't just an inconvenience. They mean lost income, a disrupted schedule, and unnecessary stress.

Why do clients not show up?

The most common reasons:

• They forgot. In a hectic day, this happens more often than you might think.
• Their plans changed. Illness, traffic jam, unexpected meeting.
• Lack of commitment. When a reservation costs nothing, nothing compels them to show up because they haven't caused themselves any loss.
• Complicated cancellation process. If they have to call during your business hours or send emails, they often just leave it.

How to reduce no-shows? 6 practical tips

1. Start with clear rules

• Include cancellation terms directly in the booking process - not in fine print, but clearly and directly. Example: "Cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance, otherwise we charge 50% of the service price."
• When clients know what's expected of them, they respect your time more.

2. Automatic reminders as a necessity

People forget. But you don't have to chase everyone manually. Automatic reminders are the simplest step to avoid such unpleasant situations.

• SMS or email reminders 24-48 hours before the appointment can reduce no-shows by up to 30%.
• In Meety, you can set when and how they're sent, and clients can reschedule with just one click.

3. Small commitment = big difference

A very effective way to prevent cancellations is introducing deposits or upfront payments.

• Even a symbolic deposit works wonders. When a client pays a small amount upfront, they have a natural tendency to show up because their absence causes a loss to themselves, not just to you and your business. It's not about punishment, but about mutual respect.
• Upfront payment is even more effective. A client who has paid the full amount will almost always show up.