How am I suppose to take this email?

Question

I have had my hair done by the same guy for 5 years. I was going to call to make an appt for myself this week. I got an email from his website.. stating.

PLEASE NOTE THAT I AM FULLY BOOKED UNTIL AUGUST 2, 2008. PLEASE BOOK YOUR APPT THEN OR CALL OUR RECEPTIONIST TO BE PLACED ON A WAITING LIST.

I was a bit offended. I decided to take my business to the cute little place that just opened up down the street and guess what? I loved it, but I thought this email was kind of BS.

What do you think>

Answer 1

I get my hair cut every 5 weeks; overall color 4 times a year, and touch-up color 2 to 4 times a year.  In other words, I see my stylist A LOT and have been going to her for 11 years.  Yes, as a matter of fact, I *was* invited to her wedding last year, and it was gorgeous and I couldn't be happier for her.  She wants to see my toddler grandson, so 2 or 3 times a year he goes with me when I get just a cut.

If I got an email like that from my gal, it would raise my eyebrows but I would shrug it off - the FIRST time.  The next time it happened, I would ask her point-blank if she's taken on too many new customers to be able to service her long-time regulars.  Her salon is a good distance from my house and from the town where my husband and I work.  I can't make appointments for weekdays, as I'm the only driver in the family and can't realistically pull my husband out of work at 1:30 pm simply because I have a 2:30 cut and color appointment.  Saturdays are the best time and very often the ONLY time I can get in, and she knows this.  So if she started sending emails saying that she was completely booked for 6 and 8 week periods, and I didn't already have an appointment during that period, I would definitely ask her what she planned to do to keep me as a customer.

Oh..and as an 11-year regular I can tell you, when something comes up at her salon, I'm on the short list of customers who gets a phone call, not an email or a post card.

Answer 2

This guy is no business man.  This was the worst way he could have gotten this information across.  He left you on your own to find and like another beautician and you have.  Unless you love, love, love him, I'd not go back.

Anything could have happened.  He might be booked for some big events like weddings where he'll do everyone's hair, be involved in one of those contests where stylists compete for prizes, going on a reality show, going on vacation, etc.  

He should have let the situation take care of itself, having the person who makes the appointments tell some of his clients and sent a much warmer email.  After all, you've seen him at least 25 times in the past 5 years, probably more.

A smart business man would have called each of his regular clients and explained.  I know women who make their stylist part of their lives, inviting them to parties, etc.  Foolish, foolish man.

Answer 3

He should have worded it a little more tactfully, but  there was nothing wrong really with him sending it (if it was true and he wasn't just trying to drum up more business).

As long as you are happy with the new place, let it go.

Answer 4

Reply to the email that you have taken your business somewhere else where it won't be so difficult on your schedule and that you wish him much success in the future! And also offer your thanks for a good job done in the past.

Answer 5

As a sign you don't want to go there anymore.

Answer 6

I think it was a  scare tactic to drum up business.I bet if you got put on cancellation list you'd get a call.take your business to the cute little place those girls are probably just not working at the big busy salons because they are more down to earth,and not a snob, and they are going to care about you more.They may well have as much or more experience and be cheaper for you too.Ask at salon and if the girls are commision only or booth rent, they are experienced.If their pay is salary plus commision,they are new to the business.

Answer 7

It's easier for him to send out a mass email to all clients than having 100 calls asking if they could make an appointment.  I don't really see anything wrong with it.