Have you been finding it's getting harder and harder to communicate with Gen Z customers? Maybe you're getting ghosted more often, or you find people are more resistant to hop on a Zoom call than they used to be? In the past, we’ve managed to stick to tried-and-true communication methods. Most of us have come to love communicating exclusively via email or our preferred software, where we can keep everything organized and never miss a beat. But the truth is that the times are changing, and so are our customers.

As a wedding business coach, I've noticed that this year has thrown a curveball for many in the industry. Bookings are slower, and the competition is fiercer. I want to share three ways to adapt your communication, especially when dealing with Gen Z customers, to help you book more couples!

1. Offer Up Text Messaging

If you just cringed a little, I get it. Let's face it—adding another communication channel can be a bit daunting. Keeping track of texts on top of emails and phone calls is a LOT. But here’s the thing: today’s consumers expect it. If you’re not willing to text, someone else will be, and that could mean losing potential clients.

You’ve probably heard this before, but Gen Z thrives on immediacy. Texting offers quick and direct communication, making your response time feel almost instantaneous. Moreover, a text feels more personal and less formal, creating a stronger connection between you and your clients. 

If right now you’re saying, “OK, Candice, but how TF do I manage this?” I highly recommend using tools like HoneyBook to streamline all your communications, which now INCLUDE text messages (y’all know I already love Honeybook, and I’m just so grateful they have this feature, to be honest). Whether you use Honeybook or not, you’ll need to figure out something to help you stay organized without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Be Open To Booking In The DMs

We’ve all seen those Instagram bios that say, “Please inquire via my website, not DMs.” And listen, I love a good boundary. But while that might have worked in the past, it’s becoming less accepted. Similarly to texting, Gen Z loves the immediacy of social media direct messages (DMs), and they often prefer to initiate conversations there.

There are good reasons for you to consider opening up your DMs too! First, DMs make you more approachable, which can be a great way to show off your modern, customer-centric business model. Your customers do NOT want someone who feels archaic and not “with the times,” and having conversations in the DMs is a great way to stay connected. 

The second reason is that it’s a lot easier for them to inquire (which is a good thing for you if you wish you were getting more bookings lately!). For many, DMing is easier than filling out a contact form on a website. If your calendar is looking light, you need to meet your potential clients where they are. 

With that said, I should address the negatives (which are likely what prompted the “Please inquire via my website, not DMs.” messages in the first place). How the heck do you keep track of everything?

While I don’t have a magic wand for you, I will say that you need to develop a system that works for you. Whether it’s setting aside specific times each day to check your DMs or using social media management tools, it’s your job as the business owner to adapt and make it work.

3. Offer Phone Calls Instead of Zoom

Listen – you’re not the only one feeling Zoom fatigue. After endless virtual meetings over the past four years, your potential clients may not be too excited about jumping on yet another video call. We all want to save time and just email, right? And while you might still need that personal touch to gauge if it's a good fit, I want you to consider offering phone calls at the very least instead. 

Phone calls feel less formal and less invasive than video calls, making it easier for busy couples to fit into their schedules. Plus, there’s beauty in the simplicity of it. Sometimes, simpler is better. A phone call can be just as effective for getting to know your clients without adding the stress of video conferencing. 

While your customers might be more and more eager to keep conversation to text, DMs, and email, if you do insist on having a call before booking (which I think makes sense for ensuring a personality fit), a phone call might just be the happy middle ground you’ve been wanting.

Bonus Tip: List Your Prices on Your Website

As you adapt your communication styles to the changing times and Gen Z customers, there’s one more thing you should consider: listing prices on your website. Today's couples are less willing to reach out without having at least a general idea of what you charge. I don’t make the rules (and some of them I don’t even like lol), but transparency is key in this digital age, and providing upfront pricing can set you apart as a trustworthy and straightforward choice.

Plus, listing your prices not only saves time for both you and potential clients but also attracts serious inquiries from those who are already aware of your rates. It fosters an environment of openness, helping clients feel more comfortable and confident in their decision to contact you. By showcasing your pricing, you demonstrate respect for their time and budget constraints, which can be a significant factor in building a strong initial connection.

Want to hear me talk more about the nuances of this? Watch this Youtube video here!

Adapting Your Communication Style To Book More Gen Z Customers

At the end of the day, adapting your communication strategies to cater to Gen Z customers in the wedding industry is no longer just an option—it's a necessity. By offering text messaging, being open to booking inquiries via DMs, and considering phone calls instead of Zoom, you can better meet the expectations of today’s couples. And hey, I’m here to support you every step of the way! 

Each month inside the Planner’s Playbook, I’m diving deep into one aspect of your wedding business so that we can all improve together, and offering office hours where you can come and ask me ANYTHING related to your wedding business (including how to appeal to more Gen Z customers and fill your calendar!). Get on the waitlist now for special bonuses when we open the doors next!

Ready to Elevate Your Wedding Planning Business?

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