Exam Info

How to Avoid Getting Stood Up for Appointments

Probably 95% of my appointments are there, and waiting. But there are always a few who will miss. It's a fact of life. The secret is how to minimize those who miss. Here are some hints that will help.

1. Never pressure someone to make an appointment. If you are sufficiently annoying, people will sometimes say yes to get rid of you, but you may count on them not being there (or not answering the door) if they make an appointment under such circumstances. You will have agents who want you to pressure people. I just have to say that I don't do that, that it doesn't work, and that it's not happening.

2. It goes without saying that you should ignore agent suggestions that you "just show up" or something of this nature. As Nancy Reagan used to say, "Just say no."

3. Give people your phone number. Encourage them to call you if they have questions or need to re-schedule. Most people are genuinely nice, and will make an effort to not inconvenience you. Make sure they have a way to contact you.

4. If you have any doubt -- especially if the appointment involves much driving at all -- confirm the appointment 24 hours ahead of time. Just call, say you know it's been a few days since you made the appointment, and you're wanting to make sure everything's on go. If you get a voicemail, leave a simple message asking them to call you and confirm, and say that you'll need to confirm the appointment before you come out. On a voicemail, also mention that if they need to re-schedule, that's fine, just let you know, and you'll accomodate them.

5. Be nice. If you're annoying, shrill, painful to talk to, or whatever, people will avoid calling you back. Make a point of smiling when you're talking to people and your voice will resonate with friendliness.

6. Know that occasionally -- despite your best efforts -- someone will not be there. Maybe they'll forget, maybe they're scared, but whatever the reason, it just won't happen. It's part of the business. Try not to get angry, and know that tomorrow will be better.

posted by Jim Huffman @ 10:17 AM