No-shows hurt your bottom line. Here are proven strategies to reduce them.
The Cost of No-Shows
A single no-show costs $50-100. Twice a week = $5,000-10,000 per year per instructor.
Strategy 1: Automated Reminders
SMS reminders reduce no-shows by 30-50%.
- Send reminder 24 hours before
- Send another 2 hours before
- Ask for confirmation
Strategy 2: Require Prepayment
Money on the line = they show up.
- Full prepayment for packages
- Deposits for individual lessons
- Card on file with charges
Strategy 3: Clear Cancellation Policy
- 24-48 hour notice required
- Late cancellations charged 50-100%
- No-shows charged in full
Strategy 4: Easy Rescheduling
If rescheduling is easy, students reschedule instead of not showing.
Strategy 5: Fill Cancelled Slots
Use waiting lists to notify students when slots open.