How to set up and manage the Waitlist Signup feature

Customers can join a waitlist via the online booking widget when no tables are available.

The Waitlist Signup feature allows you to capture potential bookings even when your restaurant is fully booked. You retain full control over when and how these requests are converted into confirmed bookings in your diary.

Enabling Waitlist Signup

1. Head to your Widget Settings.
2. Locate the 'Waitlist' option (default is 'off').
3. Select 'on' to enable it.
4. Click 'Save Changes'.

How it Works for Customers

If no tables are available or online availability is closed, the Waitlist option appears on the widget. Customers can request specific or flexible times and will receive immediate email confirmation once they join.

• Cancellations: Customers can remove themselves via the 'cancel' link in their email.
• Converted Bookings: If you accept their request, they receive a standard booking confirmation.
• Payments: If your restaurant requires card/payment details, a secure link is sent upon acceptance. If the customer does not provide these within your set rules, the booking is automatically cancelled.

Managing Requests

• Notifications: Ensure 'booking widget' notifications are enabled to receive alerts when customers join or leave the waitlist.
• Diary View: Use the 'Waitlist' icon in your diary to view active requests for the selected date.
• Reports: Access the Waitlist Report in the Reports section to view, filter, and export all active, cancelled, or converted requests.

Converting to a Booking

1. Go to the requested date and click the active 'Waitlist' notification icon.
2. Select a request to view available tables and stay times.
3. Select the desired table and confirm the booking (requires manager authorization).

Once confirmed, the booking appears in your diary with a 'waitlist converted' note attached.

Please note: The waitlist will not be displayed if you use the 'Quick Fix' tool to remove same-day availability.