Consumers are looking for instant gratification. Once they have completed the discovery stage and want to choose with whom they will work, you want to make it as easy as possible for them to choose you.

This has been proven out with applications like OpenTable and ZocDoc.com, where appointment-setting occurs in real time from the business’s profile. Once the appointment is set, the consumer stops looking.

We have validated this best practice for tax accounting professionals with our clients who use online appointments on their websites. With the CountingWorks PRO (previously ClientWhys) marketing for accountants platform, your calendar is managed in either Google or Office 365 calendar systems. Our application then displays open dates that are synced to your calendar feed. Consumers can choose professionals within the firm and even service types. The appointment request is sent in for approval and even includes appointment reminders via email, text or phone.

For smaller practices, this is a huge time saver and labor cost reducer. The added benefit is improving client satisfaction and reducing no-shows. We have clients who are getting literally hundreds of online appointments each year. Many website visitors come from mobile phones or after hours. If they are impressed by your reviews or were referred to you by an existing client, make it as easy as possible to become a client with you. Why lose business or waste time playing phone tag? This tool is a proven practice builder and should be part of your marketing plan for the 2014 tax season.