Lead time allows the host to set a minimum notice period before a client can book a meeting with them. This ensures that the host has enough time to prepare and prevent last-minute bookings. In simple terms, it’s the minimum time gap between when a meeting is booked and when it actually takes place.
Let’s take an example to understand how lead time can help manage the hosts's schedule effectively. Imagine John (the host) has set a lead time of 1 hour. At 10:00 AM, he is attending a two-hour company-wide meeting. At 10:10 AM, one of his clients books a meeting for 11:10 AM. Since John is still in his company meeting at that time, he’s unable to attend the client meeting, even though a one-hour lead time was technically maintained.
This is why it’s a good idea to set a lead time that gives the host enough buffer for preparation and awareness of upcoming meetings. For instance, some people prefer a 12-hour lead time. This ensures that when they check their calendar in the morning, they know no meetings will be booked for the same day, giving them peace of mind and more control over their day.
On the other hand, if the host is a therapist conducting online sessions and is usually available at their desk, they may prefer to set the lead time to zero. This means if clients see an open slot at 3:00 PM, they can book it directly, even at the last minute.
Adding lead time
Click on the Scheduling links from the left side bar.
Click on the name of scheduling link for which you want to add a lead time.
Click on the Where tab.
Choose a Lead time or click on Custom and enter a new time.
Click on Save.
Counting lead time in business days
You can count lead time in business days instead of calendar days. Saturdays, Sundays and any holidays you've added are then left out of the count.
Click on the Scheduling links from the left side bar.
Click on the name of the scheduling link.
Click on the Where tab.
Under Lead time, click on Custom.
Enter the number of days and select Days.
Check the Business days checkbox.
Click on Save.
The Business days checkbox appears only when the lead time is a whole number of days.
For example, with a lead time of 2 business days, a client who opens your booking page on Friday at 3:00 PM can book from Tuesday at 3:00 PM onward, because Saturday and Sunday aren't counted.