In part one of Setting up a Salon Business – tips for success we covered the necessity of having a business plan in place and finding the right location.
Part Two will look at other essential areas to think about as well as looking to the future.
EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES
It is the salon owner’s responsibility to buy equipment and accessories that will be used by your staff. This requires comprehensive research that should not be done in haste. It’s advised that you buy high quality equipment that will be of use to you and your staff that will last a long time while using them on clients. These can include lighting, hair styling devices, dryers, and sinks as well as supplies like hair treatments, shampoos, conditioners and styling aids. If you are including services like massages, pedicures and manicures, you will need to buy these, also. As there are many suppliers and dealers of salon equipment that sell exclusively to salons, you will need to shop around for the best deals. Take the time to compare and don’t be afraid to negotiate a fair price.
DECORATING YOUR SALON
After completing your business plan, the next thing would be to find a decorating style that your clientele will find appealing. While this is exciting, it can also get expensive very quickly. Since you are working within a budget, remember that you can make changes and upgrades as your salon makes a profit. This is another area where you should do your research and yet keep it simple.
What people expect is to visit a salon that makes them feel comfortable when they enter. Presentation and cleanliness is very important so that your clientele can relax while they are getting themselves pampered. They want to be able to relax and enjoy an atmosphere that is peaceful. Though some salons can be really busy, it is your job to ensure that it is also a peaceful place. Your employees should be trained to be conscious of this as well. Keeping all of these factors in mind is a big part of what will guarantee returning customers and referrals.
SALON STAFF
Having a salon team that is friendly and reliable is extremely important. You may need a manager, stylists, assistants or shampoo persons, and a public relations person. When starting out small, you may take on the role of manager and stylist, which is great if your budget is small. When your business grows, you should add on accordingly. You should also read the UK Employment laws before hiring anyone so that no laws are broken.
You should also have a contract written before recruiting anyone. This contract can state terms of employment, what is required of them in the day-to-day operations, insurance policies and other terms and conditions. You may want to view the employee handbooks of other salons to ensure that all important information is included.
You are also responsible for planning regular staff meetings, even if your staff of stylists is small, you should have everyone meeting on a regular basis. This should be open for all to discuss situations and concerns in the salon. This way, every staff member knows that they have a voice when it comes to sharing ideas. You should always listen since they work with your clients and may be able to present some ideas that may benefit you as the business owner.
Your customers are most important as they are your business’ biggest asset as well as your profits. Meeting their needs and desires should be a primary concern for you and your staff. This means showing courtesy at all times, even when something unpleasant happens. As the owner, having a presence that is both accessible and assertive will help when people need to approach you about an issue.
And no matter what steps you take to create harmony, things will still happen with your staff from time to time. Someone may have a personal problem or may not bring in enough consistent revenue. These things happen and knowing how to deal with them is what will help your business to survive. The longer you let a matter continue, the longer it may take to remedy. Other staff members may realise what is happening and by letting them know that you are working on a solution will help them to build confidence in you.
MARKETING
Having a strong marketing campaign is important in any business. Some people think that all is needed is a business card as they are inexpensive. Business cards are great for leaving on community boards as well as being accessible in your salon. A good business owner will also want to have several of these on hand to give to people that may seek your services. This requires a good rapport, so be prepared to offer a discount at the time of presentation. On your cards, you may want to include your expertise or if you have a website or blog that shows off your work, include the URL.
Don’t be shy when it comes to discounts and specials. These days, the Internet and social media can be used to advertise these for little to no cost. Word-of-mouth is a great tool. You can also create flyers that list your services as well as prices. Some operators add a coupon to the bottom of the flyer or incentive for those who refer family and friends. You may want to use more than one marketing method in the early stages and continue with the tools that work best, even after you get established.
GRAND OPENING
Once your baby is freshly painted and you have added your own personal touch to the decorations, your public awaits you! Before you actually open your doors, you need to get your marketing and promotions strategy into place. Offer incentives such as Grand Opening discounts and other prizes and maybe some snacks and drinks for that special day. You can also use the promotions to build a customer list to send coupons and announce specials that your salon may have. Contact your local media for some free publicity and marketing. This is your time to introduce your business so you want to go out there with a bang!
MAINTAINING MOMENTUM
The recession has brought on challenges for businesses of all sizes. In recent times, many have been forced to downsize or have closed down their business operations entirely. It can be especially tough for the business owner that is just starting out. However, there are some things that both veteran business owners and new start ups can do to make it past the difficult times:
Make sure that employees are content. While you cannot solve all of their problems, when they know that their boss cares about their needs, it can make a big difference. Always treat them with respect and let them know that you appreciate their hard work and efforts. As the boss, it is your job to ensure that your salon is a positive and productive place to work.
Be strong during tough times. Like the old saying ‘Never let them see you sweat’, the same applies in business. While it’s common to expect the best from your workers, you should be careful not to place too much pressure on them. And don’t make threats that can make them unappreciated. Your workers are part of why your salon is successful. Always use common sense in all of your communication.
Meet with your employees from time to time. Meeting with your staff on a weekly or monthly basis will help to keep everyone on the same page when it comes to changes in the business. This also gives them a platform to discuss certain issues or make suggestions for a more productive environment. As the person in charge, it is your job to listen and give honest feedback. If the matter presented is one that will require further thought or would be better answered in private, make them aware of this. You can also offer your ear if employees have a private matter to discuss. Otherwise, you can use meetings to discuss goals and new ideas that you may have to improve operations.
Encourage everyone to strive for better. In trying to make a profit, businesses find themselves pushing harder. Some of the ways used to stay ahead of the competition are keeping later hours, encouraging staff to promote special deals and offering customer incentives for referrals. At the same time, keep your salon clean, stay professional and maintain pleasant surroundings at all times.
Spend money wisely. In this economic climate, it may be best to stick with your specialty instead of taking a gamble on a gimmick or other whim. During meetings, encourage your staff to bring previous experiences to the table. For instance, if one of your operators knows how to add hair extensions and the majority of your clientele either wears or is interested in such a service, then offer it in your advertising. However, services such as an esthetician may not fit your clientele at that moment, so it may not be wise to hire one and invest in equipment and supplies. If you have the physical space to spare, it may be worth considering, but get estimates and talk to people before deciding to add this on to your services. You can also cut corners by having one of the staff double as receptionist or you can do your own cleaning instead of hiring someone. The money saved can help in other areas.
At the end of the day, you will make mistakes as it is extremely unlikely that everything will go as smoothly as you would like. Probably the most important piece of advice is to learn from them so that you do not waste time and money in the future.
