referrals and pre-booking

Curious if anyone is using a pre-booking discount and what they are offering for client referrals, what has worked or what hasn't?

I offer a 10% off discount if a client pre-books and appointment at the time of their current visit. This does seem to encourage them to schedule something now rather than wait. I don't have stipulations on it other than that if they have to reschedule that appointment, it has to be within the same month to receive the discount.

Also I offer a free service each client that refers 3 new clients. The new referrals have to schedule prior to the referring client to receive the free service but everyone loves a free treatment!

Kirsten

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by jackie mozingo on February 16, 2011 at 11:06am

I usually give my clients 50% off their 6th tx. I also give off $5.00 for each referral and 20% off any service on their Birthday. They love half off number 6, I think this is what keeps them coming back.

Permalink Reply by Laura Cooksey on February 16, 2011 at 1:20pm

We give a package deal at their initial consultation - if they buy a package of 3, then they get a $25 discount. Also, we give $20 in product or service when they refer someone.

Permalink Reply by Jodi on February 17, 2011 at 6:06pm

My company offers a $20 discount to all 1st time clients, and then we give them 3 referral cards/$20 coupons for them to give out. When all 3 are returned, the original clients gets $20 off a future facial. I like the idea of offering a re-booking discount. We do that sometimes, we have specials for people who rebook, but not all the time. How many of you use Facebook to 'advertise'? I have a Facebook page for my job, and use it to announce appointment openings and any specials.

Permalink Reply by Kristin Ballantine on February 18, 2011 at 5:10am

I offer new clients a 15% discount if they join my facebook fan page. I'm trying to get my clients to join it so that I can use FB as a way to advertise.

When they come for their service, I give them $25 referral cards, if their friend who they referred comes in, the friend gets $25 off, and so does the person who referred (on their next visit)

Permalink Reply by Laura Cooksey on February 18, 2011 at 1:43pm

@Kristen - oooh, I like the idea of giving the referral cards to clients!! Why didn't I think of that?

@Jodi - I'm not doing FB advertising yet, but plan on trying it out. Perfect demographic for an acne clinic, donchathink? I have my online scheduler app (Genbook Book Now!) on there and a way for them to sign up for my Constant Contact newsletter- Join My List (that I don't get out very often...).

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Face-Reality-Acne-Clinic/27275809821

Permalink Reply by Kristin Ballantine on February 18, 2011 at 1:55pm

Laura, I love your blog, it is really helpful. The referral cards have worked a little bit, but I am surprised that I haven't gotten more back yet. The FB thing has gotten me a couple of new clients also. I'm very small and new though, and perhaps a little over anxious about building my clientele, I need to keep reminding myself it takes time!!!

Permalink Reply by Laura Cooksey on February 18, 2011 at 4:38pm

@Kristen - what's your speciality? what makes you different from other skin care professionals?

Thanks - I'm glad that you enjoy my blog!

Permalink Reply by Heather Capitanich on February 26, 2011 at 10:28pm

I am being very generous and offering my existing clients 50% off for every new referral that they send me. This is very motivating in getting my clients to work for me & they get rewarded for it when it happens :)

I have gotten many new clients this way & my existing clients love getting their discount!

Permalink Reply by Lori Taylor on March 8, 2011 at 7:31pm

I have a 'Loyal Customer' club that I run. If clients book with me on a regular basis (every 4-6 weeks) they automatically get $10 off their next appointment. They feel loved and so do I by them coming back on a regular basis. I also give an additional $10 for referrals, but I do like the idea of $20 in product! Lastly I offer 20% off any service on birthdays.

Permalink Reply by Celina Porter on March 13, 2011 at 7:47pm

Kirsten, what has been your feedback on 3 new clients = a free service?

I give $10 off the next appointment for every client they refer, I also use that as a way to get the client to rebook, I call them, thank them and let them know they have a credit... Also, I was doing a buy 4 in advance & get one free... but the price gets to be a bit high for the area I live in, and no one went for it. I was thinking of doing a buy 4 in advance & get 2 free. I am still unsure about it...

Permalink Reply by Kristin Ballantine on March 14, 2011 at 7:09am

I've been giving out referral cards that give clients a $25 discount, and the person referring also gets $25. So far, it hasn't been great. Haven't tried refer 3 get a free treatment, maybe I'll try that instead. I like the idea of discounting when they pre-book also.