COUGHS, COLDS & CANCELLATIONS.

October hits, the sniffles begin and suddenly your diary's looking too quiet, and you begin to panic slightly, it's been happening left, right and centre for me this month!

Coughs, colds, kids off school, or that “I’m just not feeling great” message the morning of an appointment, it can all feel too much! All these illnesses might be out of our control, but we can still protect our business, you just have to do it right and stick to your own rules!
 
Every year, I see so many techs panic when their perfectly planned diary starts to fall to pieces. I love it when my diary works like clockwork, but as soon as cancellations come in, it ruins the look of my colour coding!

Please remember, cancellations don’t have to ruin your day, or your income if you set boundaries early and communicate clearly. 
 
Start with a clear, fair cancellation policy. It’s not being unkind; it’s about mutual respect. Think of it as your business safety net. Whether that’s 48 hours’ notice, non-refundable deposits, or being strict with your time, it’s there to protect you! If clients know your boundaries before they book, there’s no awkwardness when you enforce them, my clients now transfer money before I've even mentioned it because they know how strict I am!
 
Next, keep your communication human. When a client messages to cancel, reply with empathy but firmness. I tend to say something like, “I completely understand, I'll miss our catch up today. Just a reminder that as per my policy, the cancellation fee will apply. I hope you feel better soon.” It’s kind, but it still reinforces your boundaries. These words have never let me down!
 
Then, make sure you have a plan for the gaps. October is the perfect time to build a short notice list of loyal clients who’d love a last minute appointment. When cancellations happen, you can turn that "argh" moment into opportunity instead of stress. 
 
Also, don't forget your own wellbeing, YOU matter. Sometimes, I don't rebook, I go and walk Eric, enjoy picking Martha up from school or, just turn my phone on do not disturb, enjoy a coffee and the peace!
 
Having structure doesn’t make you less flexible, it makes you stronger. See this as a reminder from me to you, tighten your systems, review your policies, and communicate your boundaries proudly. 
 
Because at the end of the day, you need to run a business that feels calm and professional, it's your business, your rules!

YOU DO YOU!