For class providers, a full class is a sign of success - but it can also be a headache. Parents and participants don't want to hear "sorry, we're full", and without a system in place, managing waitlists quickly becomes messy. The good news is that waitlists don't just prevent frustration - they can also be an opportunity to build loyalty and even generate extra income.
Book That In helps you handle class waitlist management with ease. Its automated waitlist tools mean no lost opportunities, no manual juggling, and a smoother experience for families.
1. Why Waitlists Matter
A professional waitlist process delivers value for everyone:
- For families - They feel reassured knowing they have a chance to join if space opens.
- For providers - You keep potential customers engaged instead of losing them to competitors.
- For business growth - Waitlists act as a demand signal, showing which classes could support expansion.
2. Common Problems Without a System
Without proper waitlist management, providers often face:
- Manual admin - Tracking names in notebooks or spreadsheets is unreliable.
- Poor communication - Families don't know if they'll ever get a place.
- Lost income - Empty slots from last-minute cancellations go unfilled.
- Frustration - Parents may look elsewhere if the process feels unclear.
3. How Book That In Simplifies Waitlists
Book That In automates the whole process with features such as:
- Joined Waiting List Email - Confirms a family is on the list, giving them peace of mind.
- Admin Notifications - Alert staff when someone joins a waitlist, so nothing is missed.
- Automatic Notifications - Families are notified when places become available.
- Subscription Waitlists - Manage ongoing demand for memberships and recurring places.
This means families feel informed, while you keep every potential booking organised.
4. Step-by-Step: Making Waitlists Work for You
- Enable waitlists in your BTI dashboard - Choose which classes can accept waitlists.
- Promote availability - Make it clear families can join a waitlist instead of missing out.
- Automate notifications - Let BTI handle when spaces open.
- Encourage quick action - Remind families that places are limited and go fast.
- Review demand regularly - Use reports to spot classes that may need more sessions.
5. Monetising Waitlists
Waitlists don't have to just hold names - they can also boost your income:
- Priority booking fees - Offer early access for a small charge.
- Premium trials - Allow waitlisted families to book a one-off trial session at another time.
- Upselling alternatives - Suggest similar classes or packages to keep families engaged.
- Conversion opportunities - Use the waitlist as a pipeline to sell memberships or subscriptions.
Handled well, waitlists turn high demand into new revenue streams.
6. Benefits for Providers and Families
For providers:
- Fill more spaces, even last-minute.
- Retain potential customers instead of losing them.
- Generate extra income through smart waitlist use.
For families:
- Clear communication about their chances.
- Fair access to spaces as they open.
- Options to stay involved even while waiting.
7. Why Book That In Is the Right Choice
Unlike manual methods or generic tools, Book That In was designed for class-based businesses. Its waitlist features:
- Automatically notify families and admins.
- Handle subscriptions as well as one-off bookings.
- Keep communication professional and consistent.
You can see how providers rate their experience on the reviews page.
Final Thoughts
A full class doesn't mean lost opportunities. By managing waitlists properly, you not only keep families happy but also turn demand into growth. With Book That In, you can handle waitlists gracefully and even monetise them, ensuring every enquiry counts. Ready to take control of your waitlists? Book your demo today.