If you’ve ever had a client show up for an appointment that wasn’t confirmed, or get upset about a no-show fee, they’re probably not trying to be difficult. More likely, they didn’t know what to expect.

These kinds of misunderstandings don’t have to happen. theCut has built-in features that make it easy to set boundaries and communicate your policies before a mishap occurs, resulting in less back and forth and a more professional experience for everyone involved.

Here’s how to use theCut to set clear expectations that protect your peace—and your time.

Explain the Booking Process Before It Becomes a Problem

Clients can’t read your mind. If they don’t understand how your booking setup works, they’ll assume they can book (or show up) whenever they want.

Use these features in theCut app to get ahead of that:

• Auto-Confirm vs. Requested Appointments: Let clients know their appointment isn’t locked in until it’s marked as Confirmed. Some barbers even put this note in their bio or include it in a message after first-time bookings.
• Last-Minute Booking Limits: If you don’t allow same-day or short-notice bookings, make that clear up front. This helps manage expectations and avoids those last-minute “can you squeeze me in?” messages.
• Future Booking Limits: Some barbers only allow clients to book a week or two in advance. If that’s you, make sure clients know not to panic when they can’t see openings for next month.

Pro tip: Set your preferences in theCut and add a note in your profile or FAQ to help clients book the right way.

Clarify Payment Expectations Upfront

Money conversations don’t have to be awkward, especially when the app does most of the talking for you.

Preauthorization Holds

When clients book, theCut may place a temporary hold on their card. This charge will not be processed; it simply confirms that the client has a valid payment method on file. Let them know this is normal and will disappear if the appointment is canceled or changed.

Cancellation & No-Show Fees

If you’ve enabled a cancellation or no-show policy, make sure clients understand they will be charged if they don’t show up or cancel at the last minute.

Use Client Blasts to Keep Everyone in the Loop

Want to send a policy update or last-minute availability? Use Client Blasts to quickly communicate with all your clients.

You can message all your clients at once, without needing a group chat or extra apps. It’s perfect for keeping people informed without having to repeat the same information.

Encourage clients to turn on push notifications from theCut so they don’t miss your updates. Whether it’s a cancellation fee reminder or a heads-up about holiday hours, Client Blasts help you stay in control.

Pro tip: Use Blasts to build trust by keeping your clients in the loop, not just when something goes wrong.

Let Clients Know How to Reach You

Your DMs aren’t your business inbox. theCut makes it easy for clients to message you directly through their appointment. That way, you have everything in one place and can maintain clear business communications.

Pro tip: Let new clients know: “If you need to reach me about your appointment, message me through theCut.”

Set Boundaries and Be Clear About Consequences

Sometimes a client relationship just isn’t working.

theCut gives you the option to block a client if necessary. While you don’t have to explain every block, it helps to be upfront about the kind of behavior that won’t be tolerated.

Set the Tone Early to Protect Your Peace 

You became a barber to change lives, not chase down confirmations or debate cancellation fees. theCut is more than a booking app, it’s a tool that helps you run your business like a pro.

By using the features already built into the app, you can set expectations early and create a smooth experience for you and your clients.

Take a few minutes to update your preferences and policies, so you can spend more time cutting and less time explaining.