Are you doing a free consultation and then preparing a first session
for the client?

I was wondering because you stated that you are doing some prework
for the client so that could mean that you already screened the
client ahead of time.

If you are then it is in your screening process that you are doing
and might even be in the final wrap up. For a time when I was doing
free consultations and screenings I would end up with a high fall out
rate on the so-called first session.

When I called some of my clients back they informed me that they were
able to make the change from the interview and free session and did
not believe that they needed to follow-up with me till later. This
led me to believe that I was giving too much for free most of the
time and other business partners were agreeing.

Then I also took another approach and that is that after the free
assessment they were required to present a credit card or pay for the
first session ahead of time. This eliminated my cancel rate and they
are told that I need a 24 hour notice of any cancelation and
rescheduling or the session is still charged to their account or part
of their program if we have multiple sessions paid for. I have never
had to charge an account because they call as soon as they know of
any change and some even text my cell phone to make sure that I am
aware ahead of time for rescheduling.

This way any free assessment still ends with collection of money
ahead of time unless we just do not click and they do not want to
pursue what I am offering.

If you provide some more information we might be able to tell what to
tweak to get better results my friend.

Michael

--- In InternationalHypnosisFederation@yahoogroups.com, "Roxann"
<rhiguera@...> wrote:
>
> I have a fairly high percentage of clients who don't show up for
their
> first sessions. Not only am I losing the time while I sit waiting,
but
> I also lose any prep time and the hourly room rent. Naurally, I'd
like
> to take steps to keep this from happening. If they would at least
call
> and cancel, I could cancel my reservation of the room. What do you
say
> to potential clients that prevents no shows?
>
> Roxann Higuera
>