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How to Book Virtual Appointments

The COVID-19 pandemic has motivated businesses around the world to try and limit physical contact and move their customers online. If you run a brick-and-mortar store, the transition to e-commerce is fairly straightforward… but what if you run a service business? It can be tricky to take your fitness studio or coaching business online – […]

The COVID-19 pandemic has motivated businesses around the world to try and limit physical contact and move their customers online. If you run a brick-and-mortar store, the transition to e-commerce is fairly straightforward… but what if you run a service business? It can be tricky to take your fitness studio or coaching business online – especially if you don’t already have a good way to book virtual appointments.

Don’t worry. With the right tools and a little creativity, it’s possible for you to still provide your customers with tons of value while keeping your distance. Video conferencing platforms and a great online booking system can make a world of a difference, especially when used together. Let’s go over how to book virtual appointments and classes:

1. Add an online calendar to your website

Turn your website into your receptionist by adding an online booking system. With the right software, your customers will be able to book both virtual appointments and in-person sessions and pay for them 24/7, without ever having to talk to a human. Start Booking is a powerful, easy-to-use online scheduler that blends seamlessly into your website.

2. Customize your schedule so your customers can book virtual appointments

Once you’ve added an online calendar to your website, customize your preferences to suit your business. You’ll be able to create custom classes and appointments, add available times, designate certain staff members to each booking, and specify whether an appointment is in-person or virtual. You can even set up automatic reminders and confirmation emails so your clients never miss an appointment.

3. Integrate your online calendar with video conferencing software

Not all online schedulers offer this feature, but if you choose Start Booking, you’ll be able to integrate your online calendar with Zoom. Adding this integration will allow you to add interactive video conferencing to any appointment, class, or consultation with just a click. It’ll automatically create a unique Zoom link for each appointment booked. Learn more about the Zoom and Start Booking integration here.

4. Hold your virtual appointment

Now, it’s time to host your virtual appointment or class! Make sure you’ve come prepared and on-time. Be friendly and energetic, just like you would be if it was an in-person meeting. Introduce yourself, invite participation, let your clients know what to expect, then get right into it.

Hosting virtual appointments might take some time to get used to, but as long as you’re doing your best to provide your clients with the value they’re looking for, don’t sweat it. It’s totally possible to perform so many services online successfully, whether it’s a virtual Zumba class with multiple participants, one-on-one consultation with a new client, or coaching session with a longtime customer.

Who knows? Maybe you and your customers will enjoy the flexibility of virtual appointments so much, you’ll continue offering that option later on in the future.

Ready to move your service business online? Download Start Booking now and start booking in-person and virtual appointments.

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