I can't help but feel that people nowadays have more possibilities to get in touch, but somehow have gotten way worse at actually doing so? Doesn't really matter whether it's in a professional or private setting in my experience...
I think there's something to that. Also, increasingly I'm finding people who would rather email or text, rather than talk--honestly, I'm one myself. But I think it allows for a disconnect wherein... it's like it's "just" a text or email to them, so it doesn't really matter if they don't say anything. And that's a line I don't want to cross; that's just rude.
Your frustration is completely understandable. That would drive me up the wall too.
I wonder if these people understand how it works? Like that you're putting it together special, and they're putting you out money if they don't show up? I guess I'm just thinking of like, our park district classes, where people register and pay in advance, and if there isn't enough registration it gets cancelled, but if it's already paid for then class is held even if not everyone shows up...
This has annoyed me with some of my kids' classes, too. As a fellow participant, or would-be one. I always show up!
It is mostly frustrating when a particular session sells out, and I can't get into it. If the people who did get in were super excited and into it, I would shrug, and say, "That's okay, better luck to us next time, that's life"
But for the sessions I *have* gotten into? Half the weeks there are supposed spaces for 15 kids and 5 show up. I know kids get sick, but not that many. In this case I don't even sense the teachers are extremely fussed because in this instance they are paid. But it makes me wonder/simmer when I can't get in. I'm like, "I hope those people are enjoying and taking advantage at least rather than steal a space they aren't using!!"
I agree, it's inconsiderate of people not to alert you when a change of plans means they can no longer attend your class. It's irritating and irresponsible. However, you have a responsibility as well. As a small business operator you must protect your interest against customers leaving you footing excessive costs when they cancel out. Impose a cancellation fee, or require a nonrefundable deposit for private sessions.
In response to those talking about having a cancellation policy in place, it isn't relevant to this particular class where it happened. My aim was to provide low cost classes to those who would otherwise shy away from dance training. In my first term, the fact that they could pay as they came and didn't have to pay upfront was what brought them to the class. Unfortunately, they did not continue their loyalty after the summer holidays and only one parent (after much prodding) actually got in touch to say they could no longer attend.
What I'll say to that is, treat every break like the beginning of a new term. The people who seem loyal? Write down their names and personally call them to inquire about their future involvement upfront, two weeks in advance. Put everyone else on a news letter through email.
It takes a while to figure out your kids routine post summer. What seemed like a definite before break is up in the air after. Most parents legit aren't even thinking about your situation. Some don't even care, so sadly, you have to put in extra work just to make sure you don't get stood up again.
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Doesn't really matter whether it's in a professional or private setting in my experience...
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Students at my job have a nasty habit of no call no show and I wish they would let us know as there's always six other things I could be doing.
There are a couple of staff as well. who think it's appropriate to e-mail rather than call when they can't come in and as you say, it's just rude
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I wonder if these people understand how it works? Like that you're putting it together special, and they're putting you out money if they don't show up? I guess I'm just thinking of like, our park district classes, where people register and pay in advance, and if there isn't enough registration it gets cancelled, but if it's already paid for then class is held even if not everyone shows up...
Could you require a prepayment? Maybe a deposit?
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It is mostly frustrating when a particular session sells out, and I can't get into it. If the people who did get in were super excited and into it, I would shrug, and say, "That's okay, better luck to us next time, that's life"
But for the sessions I *have* gotten into? Half the weeks there are supposed spaces for 15 kids and 5 show up. I know kids get sick, but not that many. In this case I don't even sense the teachers are extremely fussed because in this instance they are paid. But it makes me wonder/simmer when I can't get in. I'm like, "I hope those people are enjoying and taking advantage at least rather than steal a space they aren't using!!"
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It takes a while to figure out your kids routine post summer. What seemed like a definite before break is up in the air after. Most parents legit aren't even thinking about your situation. Some don't even care, so sadly, you have to put in extra work just to make sure you don't get stood up again.
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