Many of the small business owners, consultants and service providers I use on a regular basis are. And you could be too.

Let me share a few examples of exactly what I'm talking about…

My massage therapist actually pushes me to their online calendar versus booking me a new appointment while I'm there. She does it in a very offhand way as though she doesn't want to bother me about it.

The online calendar is fine when I'm home, but why not book my next appointment right then?

My hairdresser offers a free touch up within four weeks of your last cut. I rarely take her up on it because I always forget to schedule it in time. Then I wait probably three to four weeks longer than I should to get it cut too.

If I (and every client) came in for two more cuts a year because we booked before we left, she'd add a tidy sum to her bottom line - especially once you count the extra product sold too.

A few months ago I started seeing a new acupuncturist. We began what was likely going to be a multi-appointment course of treatment. But I started feeling better, then life got in the way and I just never went back.

She could have easily kept treating me if we'd booked on the spot.

Some time back I hired a consultant to help me make some decisions regarding a new brand launch I was working on. I hired her once, it was a great conversation, and I considered hiring her again.

Had she asked at the time, I probably would've booked another hour consult. But she didn't.

If any of these folks had simply asked to book my next appointment at that time, I would have done it.

They could have helped me more. They'd be taking a task off my future to-do list and making my life easier. And they'd make more money with less effort. In other words, it would be good for everyone involved!

Now I'm not saying you need to be pushy or salesy. I'm suggesting that at the end of your time together with a client or patient, simply ask, "Would you like to go ahead and book your next appointment (or meeting, or consult) now?"

If they say no, that's fine. But you'll be surprised by how many people will happily say yes. And how much faster and easier your business will grow as a result.

Do you book your next meeting or consult at the end of the current one? If so, does it work well for you? If not, why not? Please do share your thoughts by leaving a comment…

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