When to send reminders: 24 hours before or 2 hours?

A reminder only works if it arrives when the person can still act on it.

24 hours before

This is the most common choice, and it works because it gives people time to rearrange. If something has come up, they can tell you in time for you to offer the slot to someone else.

Best for: longer or higher value appointments, and clients who need to plan childcare or time off work.

2 hours before

A short reminder on the day catches people who simply forgot. It is a gentle nudge rather than a way to cancel.

Best for: quick appointments and walk-in style businesses, where people are out and about.

Both together

Many businesses send one the evening before asking for a quick reply, and a short note on the day. It feels thoughtful and is not too much.

Make them easy to answer

Ask for a one-word reply such as "YES" so you know who is coming. If someone has not replied by the evening, you can follow up or offer the slot to someone else.

Keep the tone friendly

"Hi Sam, see you tomorrow at 3.30. Let me know if anything changes." That is better than a stiff automatic message.

Do not overdo it

More than two reminders for one appointment starts to feel like nagging.

The takeaway

Start with a reminder the day before and add a short one on the day if no-shows are a problem. Bookable writes each message for you and opens WhatsApp ready to send.

Keep reading

• Half-term and holidays: how barbers handle the kids rush
• Walk-ins and appointments: how barbers can run both
• How to put your prices up without losing clients