Automated Reminders: Your 24/7 Retention System
The right message at the right time brings clients back. Automation ensures it happens consistently, every time.
Why Automate Client Reminders?
Manual reminder systems fail. Staff gets busy. Messages get forgotten. Clients fall through the cracks. Automation ensures every client gets the right message at the right time — every time.
Automation Impact
Best of all, it runs in the background. Set it up once, and it works forever — while you focus on cutting hair.
The 5 Essential Automated Reminders
Confirms the appointment, includes all details (date, time, service, stylist), and creates psychological commitment.
Reduces no-shows by 30-40%. Include easy reschedule option. The morning-of text catches last-minute forgetters.
Triggered based on last service. "Time for your next [haircut/color]? Book now to keep your look fresh."
Re-engage lapsed clients. "We miss you! Come back and enjoy [offer]." Personalizing with their name/last service works best.
Check satisfaction, request review, plant seeds for next visit. "How are you loving your new look?"
Reminder Message Templates
48-Hour Reminder
"Hi [Name]! Quick reminder: You have a [service] with [stylist] on [day] at [time]. Need to reschedule? Reply RESCHEDULE or call [number]. See you soon! - [Salon Name]"
Day-Of Reminder
"[Name], see you today at [time]! We're located at [address]. Parking available [location]. Reply CONFIRM or call if you need to change. - [Salon Name]"
Rebooking Nudge
"Hey [Name]! It's been [X weeks] since your last [service]. Time for a refresh? Book your next appointment: [booking link] - [Salon Name]"
Win-Back Message
"[Name], we miss you at [Salon Name]! It's been a while since your last visit. Come back and enjoy 15% off your next service: [booking link]"
Optimal Reminder Timing by Service
| Service | Typical Cycle | Reminder Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Men's haircut | 3-4 weeks | 3 weeks after last cut |
| Women's haircut | 6-8 weeks | 5-6 weeks after last cut |
| Root touch-up | 4-6 weeks | 4 weeks after last color |
| Full color/balayage | 8-12 weeks | 7-8 weeks after last color |
| Keratin treatment | 3-6 months | 2.5 months after treatment |
| Extensions maintenance | 6-8 weeks | 5 weeks after install/adjust |
Setting Up Your Automation Flow
A complete automation system looks like this:
Client Journey Automation
Text vs. Email: When to Use Each
Use Text (SMS) For:
- ✓ Appointment reminders (98% open rate)
- ✓ Confirmation requests
- ✓ Last-minute openings
- ✓ Rebooking nudges
- ✓ Time-sensitive offers
- ✓ Anything needing quick response
Use Email For:
- ✓ Monthly newsletters
- ✓ Educational content
- ✓ Long-form announcements
- ✓ Birthday campaigns (with detail)
- ✓ Seasonal promotions
- ✓ Content that can wait
Pro tip: When in doubt, text. It's faster, more personal, and gets seen.
Automation Best Practices
Complete Guide
Salon Client Retention Guide
Complete guide to keeping clients coming back.
Related Topics
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Automate Your Client Communications?
Let Echo handle reminders so you can focus on clients.