When I got up this morning I didn't think I'd be typing up an acrostic style blog post to highlight some top tips for salon owners new and old and yet here we are!! So please bear with me, I know it's cheesy 
S is for Self Care:
- This is probably the most important tip I could write. It's going to be impossible for you to grow your business and look after everything that comes with it, including staff and customers, if you aren't first looking after yourself. This means eating good food, getting a good nights sleep and (my least favourite!) exercising when possible. Try to minimise the burnout as much as you can and your work-life balance will be much better.
A is for Appointing the right staff.
Established owners will know that the staff can make or break a salon. Take your time when hiring staff members. You need to be sure that they will fit in with your company, the staff you already have and you clientele. Encourage your staff to be their best by offering workshops and courses so they can progress and build their skillset. Don't be afraid to hire trainees or students. They are hardworking and want to do well and they cannot progress without the opportunity to work within a salon setting. It's a good way of building a workforce who have your work ethic and mindset.
L is for Loyalty.
One of the most important tips for a successful business is building a loyal client base. You could offer loyalty schemes and programs with money off incentives, free treatments, money off products etc. Even the smallest incentive could be the difference between a client staying with you instead of looking elsewhere. As well as this, it's important to listen to your clients. Encourage feedback, listen and then adapt. You want your clients to feel they have been listened to and that their opinions matter to you. You also want to build loyalty with your staff. Allow staff opportunities to voice any concerns they may have and also feedback their achievements and positive reviews. Celebrate their successes so they feel like a valued team member. Use social media to introduce staff listing their skills and strengths and throw in some positive reviews from clients.
O is for Operations.
Always operate under your salon policies and make sure they are communicated clearly to your staff so they are aware in case any issues or complaints arise. Have policies in place for all the background things that help your salon keep running smoothly such as payroll and insurance. Make sure you have procedures for stock ordering, cleaning equipment and workspaces and always use the right products to keep your equipment working for as long as possible.
N is for Now.
This tip refers to what is happening now, whether that's in the industry in general, in the media or in your area. Keep up to date with current trends using social media, magazines such as Hairdresser's Journal or the things your clients are asking for. As well as progressing staff, offering the most up to date treatments and hairstyles will keep your business relevant. Social media can be a great tool to keep in the loop but it can help you in others ways too. Use it to build your brand by making sure you engage with followers, answer comments, post frequently, showcase the strengths of your staff and interact. This will build a strong following and reach the most people. Closer to home you need to be looking at what your local competitors are doing. Do they offer things you don't? Are they more prominent on social media? What sets you apart from them? Think about what it is that will make someone walk into your salon instead of theirs.
And there you have it! SALON!
So, with these tips and some hard work and determination, whether you're new to the business, setting up your first salon or have had years in this vibrant and exciting business, you'll be able to build something creative, exceptional and successful.
And don't forget, for all your salon furniture needs visit our Showroom, our website or call us on 01455 553558.