“Hair is everything,” declares Phoebe Waller-Bridge in a blistering monologue from Fleabag, which explores the struggles of modern-day womanhood.
“We wish it wasn’t so we could actually think about something else occasionally. But it is. It’s the difference between a good day and a bad day.”
This impassioned defence of the significance of hair resonates with us all. Indeed, hair is everything — but what happens when the world conspires against our sacred salons?
Rising costs of living have left these style sanctuaries teetering on the edge of extinction, with stylists fighting to keep their scissors snipping.
But fear not. In this article we offer three smart strategies to keep your own beloved hair salon business from closure.
1. Trim Operational Costs
As a salon owner, you’re probably no stranger to the world of overhead costs.
From rent and taxes to inventory and marketing, these expenses can really take a bite out of your bottom line.
But don’t worry, there are ways to trim your salon costs and keep more of your hard-earned cash in your pocket.
While it may be tempting to cut spending wherever you can, it’s a good idea to carry out a thorough audit of your costs before taking any action.
By doing so, you can identify areas where you can make adjustments without compromising the quality of your services, such as minimizing overstaffing and streamlining your inventory.
However, there are some expenses, such as insurance, that should not be skimped on.
As the specialist brokers at Salon Gold explain, insurance is absolutely essential for any hairdressing salon.
“Without specialist insurance, you would be left to foot the bill in the event of any loss or damage to your property or any compensation claim made against you.”
Yes, it’s an extra expense, but it will ultimately save you money in the long run.
2. Retain Your Existing Clientele
Customer service is key for any business, but when it comes to hair salons, it’s an even bigger deal.
The client experience should always take centre stage, starting right from the moment they reach for their phone to book an appointment and extending all the way to their departure.
But be it a hasty haircut, bad balayage, or dreary dye job, one single negative customer experience has the potential to drive your valued clients right out the door.
And it’s not just about the services you provide — it’s also about how you and your staff communicate within your salon, highlights SalonBiz.
“In addition to providing an excellent service that makes them look and feel amazing, choose your language and conversations carefully to make coming to you an enjoyable experience.”
So, skip the gossip about other clients or stylists in the salon.
Keep the atmosphere light-hearted but professional, so when guests leave, they feel satisfied with your service — with a spring in their step, a willingness to return and a burning desire to share a glowing review on the net.
3. Drive New Customers Through The Door
Now, about those reviews — how are yours looking? Research has revealed that an enormous 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
This means that how your salon is perceived is greatly influenced by the feedback shared by those who have experienced your services.
From building client confidence to improving your local Google ranking, reviews hold enormous power in boosting your profit margins.
To drive more customers through the door, it’s crucial to focus on cultivating positive reviews.
By prioritizing exceptional customer service and delivering memorable experiences, you can encourage your clients to share their delight online.
Persuading your contented clients to post reviews in the first place is not always easy, however, as Lockhart Meyer points out, but salon-specific review sites can help you get more clients recommending your business.
“SalonSpy is one of the best known,” the marketing experts note. “It’s independently owned and works very much like TripAdvisor, with clients being automatically texted after their appointment with a request for a review.”
Once you’ve received a review, you have the chance to respond with a thank-you message, or, in a worst-case scenario, handle negative comments with politeness and discretion.
