The Waitlist Signup feature allows customers to join a waitlist via the online booking widget when no tables are available. You control when and where you assign the waitlist request in your diary.
Important info:
This feature is not available for Google or Meta (Facebook/Instagram) booking integrations. It is only available on the simpleERB online booking widget.
How to enable/disable Waitlist Signup
1. Head to the 'Widget Settings' here. (By default, it will be turned 'off'.)
2. Locate the 'Waitlist' option.
3. Select 'on' to enable the feature.
4. Click 'save changes' to update the settings.
You can 'turn off' the waitlist feature at any time.
How does Waitlist Signup work for customers?
When there are no tables available or online availabilty is closed;
Waitlist Signup option will be displayed
Customers can request a specific time or select a flexible period
Notifications are clear to inform customers that they are joining a waitlist
After joining the waitlist;
Customers receive an email confirmation of the waitlist request and details
They can remove themselves using the 'cancel' link
If the waitlist request is accepted:
A booking confirmation email is sent
If card/payment details are required for the booking;
The secure card/payment link is sent and once supplied the booking confirmation email is sent. If not completed, booking is automatically cancelled based on 'due date' rules.
How to manage Waitlist Requests
Email notifications:
Sent when a customer joins or removes themselves from the waitlist.
You will need to have 'booking widget' notifications enabled here to receive these.
Waitlist Icon - View requests:
View and manage waitlist requests in the 'Waitlist' icon located on each view.
Active requests are shown only for the selected calendar date.
Wailist Report Overview:
Within the Reports section, there is A Waitlist report is available in the Reports Section
View and export all waitlists in one place: active/pending, cancelled, and converted to a booking.
How to convert a waitlist request into a booking.
1. Select the requested calendar date for the waitlist.
2. The 'Watilist' button will show an 'active notification'.
3. Click to open and view the waitlist section.
4. Select a request to view available tables and times
5. Select desired table (stay times are displayed)
6. Confirm the booking (Manager authorisation is required)
Once confirmed, the booking will be added to the diary. A booking note is recorded on the booking as 'waitlist converted'.
When is Waitlist Signup displayed on the online widget?
Waitlist Signup appears on the booking widget:
When no tables are available
If there is an advanced booking time period
When times are closed out via the Long Term widget availabilty setting
If you use the 'Quick Fix' tool to remove availabilty for same-day bookings, the waitlist will not be displayed.